Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield are identical twins who live in the suburb of Sweet Valley in Southern California.
Although they appear to be identical on the outside, they have
completely different personalities. Usually their friends can tell
them apart, but sometimes one twin gets mistaken for the other.
These cases of mistaken identity are often the driving force
behind their most entertaining adventures -- and misadventures.
Based on the popular book series by Francine Pascal, this teen
favorite stars Brittany and Cynthia Daniel -- winners of the Young
Artist Award for "Best Performance by a Young Actress in a TV
Comedy Series."
CRITIQUE
There are 22 episodes in this 3-disc set (only a few of which were
entertaining). In the episode “Coma” Elizabeth’s character goes
from conservative to wild after waking from a coma. Also, in “Club
X” former Los Angeles Laker Kurt Rambis guest stars to bring Todd (who was hustling people
in basketball) down to earth. Everything else about this season was mostly
situations (like “Poetic Injustice” where the whole gang decides
to take up poetry) which leave you scratching your head. The
show’s characters include the usual jock boyfriend (Ryan Bittle),
nerdy guy (Michael Perl), and token minority (Harley
Rodriquez). Sweet Valley High is seemingly a
“poor man’s” Beverly Hills 90210. The only difference is that
this show is more family oriented and features more comedic
aspects, like jokes and silly situations.
THE VIDEO
Buena Vista presents Sweet
Valley High in 1.33:1 fullscreen format.
Colors look good but not quite sharp enough.
The print image looks decent but a bit of wear appears, plus
detail and sharpness aren't too great. The overall video
transfer looks okay.
THE AUDIO
Buena Vista presents
Sweet Valley High in English 5.1 Dolby Surround. Dialog scenes are
mostly clear and easy to understand. The soundtrack sounds fine.
THE EXTRAS
There are absolutely no bonus features on
this three disc set which lowers its appeal even more.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Unless you are an avid reader of the book series or are fans of the
Daniel twins, the complete first season of Sweet Valley High
probably won’t entertain you at all.
