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Shades of “The X-Files”, as season five kicks off Xena finds out she’s carrying a child of unknown origin. We’re pretty sure that the father isn’t Hercules. Mortals clash with gods over Xena’s unborn child and she’s not sure why. Here’s a hint Xena, find a magician to sent you to the future, look up Agent Dana Scully. At least you’ll have someone that can relate to your plight. As if things aren’t bad enough Gabrielle becomes Miss Serious and takes on Xena’s role as butt kicker extraordinaire. Although this isn’t the best season of the series, there’s still plenty of memorable conflicts, witty banter and, of course, skimpy costumes to keep everyone’s eyes glued to the TV set.

Once again Anchor Bay packs quite a bit of good stuff in a little package. We get director’s cuts of “Between the Lines”, A Good Day” and “Locked Up and Tied Down”. What does this amount to? Extra scenes more explicit action sequences and generally a superior story as a result. Essentially these are the episodes that ran in some other countries where time constraints aren’t as much an issue. “Adventures in the Sin Trade” digs into the seamier side of things of Xena’s world by going behind-the-scenes of that popular two part episode. “Bringing Monsters to Life at K.N.B. EFX Group” gives us another in depth look at the marvelous technicians who bring many of the beasts to life for the series and also creates many of the marvelous CGI effects for the show. “Bruce & Ted Cabin Fever” focuses on guest stars Bruce Campbell and Ted Raimi and the hard time they have adjusting to being away from home. Although it sounds serious, as with anything Campbell does, it’s quite funny. Interviews with writers, producers, directors and the cast abound as well. Bloopers, outtakes and a wardrobe test round out the extras included here. ---