Angel: Complete Series Collector’s Set

Angel is a rare example of a superior TV spinoff. The show aired for five seasons (1999-2004), and picked up where season three of Buffy: The Vampire Slayer left off. Though Buffy killed with its wit and strong female heroes, Angel explores the driving forces of mankind, far outshining anything in recent television history. The story of a vampire cursed with a human soul who helps the helpless is one of redemption, loss, alienation and hope set in a world where the line between hero and villain is nonexistent. Without that line and the presence of excellent character development under the direction of creator Joss Whedon, the dualistic sides of humanity are open to realistic exploration through the guises of vampires, demons and lawyers. The final season is superb, examining why men fight for lost causes—and the dark depths they’ll go to emerge victorious.