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The Outer Limits was a science fiction TV show during the 1960s. It generally employed some pretty good, cutting edge type science and was a precursor to the Twilight Zone, Dr. Who, and other shows that followed in its footsteps, including a later run of a series by the same name. ***

The second season has some pretty good episodes, and some pretty bizarre ones. Having grown up during the eighties as movie special effects were really being refined, I was hard pressed not to be overly critical about the poor special effects from the movies. If this is a big issue for you, then you'll probably not want to watch this series as many of the episodes include very rudimentary special effects, even though they were probably cutting edge for their time. ***

The episodes that are worth watching generally revolve around human issues and avoid the problems with special effects that computers have now been able to resolve. ***

There are no special features included in this 3-disc set and the sound and picture quality are about what you would expect from footage from the 1960s, but overall this is a surprisingly good DVD set. Generally the stories are intriguing, the acting is bearable, and the issues the episodes address are engaging. If you were around to watch these episodes when they originally aired this set will be like re-living your past (which is what happens in some of the episodes). If you weren't around back then, a category of individuals in which I am included, but liked the follow up series and some of the other series that have stemmed from the original, you may want to check it out. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised, as long as you don't let the old school special effects bother you too much.

The episodes are in black and white. I was surprised that the picture quality was as good as it was, but it was still very grainy. It appears that the imperfections that usually accompany film - dust spots, hair, etc. - have been removed and the picture is for the most part decent. It definitely shows its age, but it isn't actually too bad. ***

The sound quality also shows its age. The only sound option is English Mono and you can really tell the difference on a surround sound system. There is no depth to the sound, no noises coming from the rear, no deep bass. However, there is very little static and the sound is, for the most part, fairly clear, it just doesn't have any real depth. ***

Overall, I was impressed that the series was in as good of condition as it was. The picture and sound combine for a very effective 'sixties' feeling TV episode. If you remember watching it when it first aired, you shouldn't notice any real differences. If you're expecting a 2003, 5.1 surround sound, excellent picture quality film, well, you'll be sorely disappointed.