Def Poetry - Season 3 (and Season 2)

Rating: NR

Distributor: HBO Home Video

Release Date: April 5, 2005 (season 2)

Release Date: July 19, 2005 (season 3)
Review posted: July 1, 2005

Reviewed by Steve Tradd

"To be Def or not to be Def, that is the question"

CRITIQUE

Many would think poets no longer exist unless they have a book deal. Def Poetry takes that myth and turns it into dust by showing some of the best modern poets of today. Although they may not be Shakespeare the poets all have passion and heart. They create vivid images inside your head and discuss every topic of human society with no fear of being judged.

The poets talk about sexuality, politics, relationships, war, guns, death and anything else under the sun. Some are funny because they are meant to be, while others are sad and heartbreaking. Hosted by Def Poet and actor Mos Def (Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, The Italian Job), each show is unique, fast paced and interesting.

There are even a few celebrity poets such as Jamie Foxx (Ray, Collateral) and Erykah Badu. If you like this type of art, and I say art because that truly is what it is, then Seasons 2 and 3 are a gold mine.

Season 2 and Season 3 each contain 7 episodes that run between 25-40 minutes.

THE VIDEO

Seems like a digital transfer because the picture quality is superb. Def Poetry is presented in typical television full screen format.

THE AUDIO

Clear and without any imperfections. Not the best sound ever but it does the job. Def Poetry is only presented in English.

THE EXTRAS

There are no special features on either disc.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Def Poetry is of the highest quality and is not afraid to offend anyone. It is modern, liberal and without boundaries. These DVD’s are made for fans of the television show but fall short with their lack of special features. An audio commentary of some kind would have been nice or maybe some behind the scenes stuff. If you are not a fan of the show then I would not recommend buying it, but I do recommend that you at least rent one of the seasons. Def Poetry may just open your mind.

VERDICT: RECOMMENDED RENTAL

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