Official Synopsis:
After eight unforgettable years of sidesplitting laughs, heartwarming family moments and the never-ending quest for "More Power," one of the most popular shows in the history of television bids a final farewell. Relive some of the Taylors' most memorable episodes in Home Improvement's remarkable eighth season. Randy and Brad set off on their own paths, Tim quits his job at "Tool Time" and the family makes the ultimate decision to move from their beloved home. Experience all 28 episodes of this Golden Globe and Emmy award-winning sitcom in this spectacular 4-disc DVD set. The show's final season ratchets up the star power with a host of sensational guest stars, including Oprah Winfrey, Morgan Fairchild and Mario Andretti. On top of that, don't miss the exclusive DVD bonus features - all-new bloopers, and the hilarious live reunion special, Tim Allen's User's Guide To Home Improvement. It's the perfect way to say goodbye to an all-time TV classic.

  
Our Take:
Sometimes, there are reasons why shows get cancelled. I mean no disrespect, but eventually every show runs its course (except, apparently, The Simpsons), and by its eighth season, Home Improvement had done so as well.

The show isn’t terrible or anything, but it’s just not as funny by the end. The kids are all grown up or nearly grown-up, so a lot of the situational humor that came from that aspect of the show is gone. There also just aren’t that many jokes you can tell about tools after a while. So while Home Improvement was still good for a few chuckles at this point, it was far from the comedy powerhouse it once was.

However, Buena Vista has at least added a nice extra feature this time around. Most of the DVD’s in the Home Improvement series have been pretty lackluster, so the included Reunion Special is a lot of fun for fans of the show, even if a large portion of it is clips. There’s one other typical extra feature as well:

* Tim Allen Presents: The Home Improvement User's Guide (42 minutes) - Tim Allen and Richard Karn host a live reunion special with new stand-up material by Allen.
* Blooper Reel (6 minutes).

While Home Improvement: The Complete Eighth Season isn’t a lavish, extras-laden affair, at least there’s a little added value for fans. It’s not the show at its best, but between the reunion special and the complete-your-collection value of the set, this set has earned a place on your shelf if you already own the first seven seasons on DVD.

Overall Picture:
Show: C
DVD: B-

- Mike Spring

Editor