First season guest stars like Jon Favreau, Tobey Maguire and Cheech Marin are easy enough to spot, especially since newcomers to the show may not realize just how many characters are played---encompassed, even---by the versatile Ullman. The makeup isn't always convincing, but it's the endless variety of personalities that really set this one apart from the pack. From Virginia Bugge to Mrs. Noh Nang Ning (below left) and everyone in-between, new and old fans will enjoy being introduced (and re-introduced) to all the new faces and places in Ullman's surreal world. The content here is much more adult than its network counterpart, but everything still seems relatively tame when compared to this decade's standards. All things considered, it's a pretty decent start to a series that only got stranger and stronger as the years went on.

In fact, the only real complaints should come from those who the series isn't aimed towards. Ullman's British take on American culture and ideals is deceptively…well, American, so those pining for a Monty Python look-alike may walk away disappointed. Other than that, its only downfall may be its age: some of the humor is topical (in some cases, due to its level of controversy at the time) and hasn't aged perfectly. Even so, this is a series you'll laugh at because it's funny, not because it's dated. Some of the jokes fall a bit flat, but what comedy series hasn't had its share of bumps in the road?

The inaugural season of Tracey Takes On… has certainly taken its time getting to DVD, though fans of the show should consider this 3-disc set worth the wait. All 10 episodes--- "Romance", "Charity", "Nostalgia", "Royalty", "Family", "Law", "Vanity", "Death", "Health" and "Fame"---are presented five apiece on the first two discs, while the third holds an assortment of bonus features that support the series nicely. It's not the most feature-packed, technically sound release of TV-on-DVD, but it's a reliable collection of comedy that should earn plenty of replay value. Let's look closer, shall we?

Not surprising for a mid-1990s TV series, these episodes are presented in their original 1.33:1 aspect ratio and look passable for their age and budget. The amount of softness, grain, dirt and dull colors found here is disappointing but almost expected, though at least there aren't any digital problems to speak of. The English Stereo mix is roughly the same quality---it's nothing to write home about, but good enough to get the job done. Unfortunately, no optional subtitles have been included.

Also on board are four Bonus Segments, a series of character-driven pieces that includes "Fern: The Early Years", "Fern & Harry", "Linda" and "Janie". Last but not least is "Meet the Characters", a slideshow presentation of Ullman's alter egos complete with photos and background info. All things considered, this is a satisfying mix of bonus features that should easily tempt fans of the show.

It's not hard to recommend great comedy on DVD, especially when it's given a decent presentation and a nice selection of extras. Tracey Takes On… isn't the flat-out funniest series you'll ever see, but it plays its cards right and should satisfy any fan of character-driven comedy. The price may be a little steep (especially for those new to HBO releases), but there's enough great content here to justify the price of admission. Those unfamiliar with Ullman's brand of comedy may want to give this one a rent first, while fans of the show should easily consider it worth picking up. Recommended.