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Special Features
Retrospective featurettes, including brand-new interviews with the cast, crew and fans!
Original toy commercials
Video jukebox
Animated storyboards
Original writer’s bible
Editorial Reviews
In 1985, the truly outrageous TV show, Jem and The Holograms, premiered to the delight of young girls and boys. This new animated series focused on the dual life of beautiful Jerrica Benton, co-owner of Starlight Music, and her pop star alter-ego, Jem, lead singer for the all-girl band Jem and The Holograms.
With its unique story line combination of drama, action, romance and music, Jem and The Holograms was a smash hit and became an icon for a decade. It's message of glamour, glitter, fashion and fame helped define a generation.
Now you can relive the adventures of Jem and The Holograms and their archrivals, The Misfits and The Stingers, in this first-ever complete collector's edition DVD box set. All 65 episodes of the hit series are included, accompanied by an exclusive bonus disc of brand-new and archival material rarely seen.
Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
107 of 116 people found the following review helpful
Format:DVD
What makes this cartoon so different from the many others is the intricacy of the series, the show uses the characters as the central driving point in contrast to the majority of other cartoons that simply use them as a vehicle for mindless action. The reason for this is most likely the fact that the show was aimed at girls and as such random action isn't appealing however, characters, relationships, and inner conflicts are. Jem features episodes that are both fun and exciting, examples of such are "The Battle of the Bands", "One Jem to Many", and "The Fan". Jem also has episodes that make the show transcend your everyday cartoon such as "Scandal", "Father's Day", "Riot's Hope", "A Father Should Be", and of course the powerful "Out of the Past" the maturity of which would never be understood by a child or even some adults. The more emotional episodes feature complex themes such as the death of a parent, personal secrets, conflict among friends, and family strife. It's the mix of fun and depth that really make this such a wonderful show to watch, especially as an adult when you can really appreciate it's complexity.
Jem features three music videos spaced evenly throughout each episode breaking up the action nicely, the 80s style mix is the best soundtrack to a television show I've ever heard. The show has a talented voice over cast featuring Britta Phillips (singing voice of Jem), Samantha Newark (Voice of Jem/Jerrica), and Charlie Adler (Eric Raymond) as well as others. Episodes usually involve the rival band the Misfits and their attempts to thwart Jem's plans out of jealously. They are assisted by Eric Raymond whose goal is to regain control of Jerrica's business which he lost early in the series. Eric Raymond is noteworthy as a main antagonist as he uses manipulation, money, and thugs instead of "magical powers" like many other cartoon villains, this brings a sense of reality that you don't often see in a cartoon. Near the end of the series Eric Raymond becomes so ruthless in his ways that it reaches a point of utter cruelty such that you forget you are watching a show made for children. Jerrica Benton(Jem) runs a foster home for girls that is funded entirely by her music company and it's primary act Jem and the Holograms, this noble undertaking gives real consequence to the struggles that occur. The threat of potentially losing her business is a constant fear as it would destroy her charity work. Jerrica also deals with an emotionally draining love triangle due to her dual identity as Jem that involves her boyfriend Rio. This becomes even more complex as the show progresses with the introduction of a new group known as "The Stingers". Jem's inner emotional turmoil is explored throughout the series providing another interesting thread to the story that you might not pick up on until a second viewing.
While Jem has a few bad episodes, usually featuring forced or unoriginal stories, most are lighthearted and fun. If you have a cynical attitude such that you can't stomach positives messages, often find older shows "cheesy", or if you prefer to nitpick 1980s children's cartoons for plot holes (ex. why aren't the villains in jail for assault) then you won't likely enjoy this show. Jem has wonderful characters, great music, and an interesting premise. A great deal of effort was put into character development allowing the viewer to get absorbed into the series following the struggles of the characters until the very end. You might find yourself enjoying a lighthearted episode only to be saddened by an unexpectedly emotional one that follows. Jem isn't political, sexual, violent, or negative yet still manages to be quite entertaining. One difference you might notice is the almost total lack of sarcasm, after watching this show you'll start to observe that in modern shows, even during tense situations, characters are constantly making sarcastic comments. This is a crutch that writers these days use to keep people watching whereas the writers of Jem expect you to appreciate the story as a whole, not just bits and pieces of dialogue.
Jem is a very unique show, with music videos, great stories, and lovable characters, these factors drive the show instead of shock value often found in modern television shows. The writers of the show push Jem beyond your normal children's cartoon making it quite emotionally and thematically complex.
---A short review about the box set itself---
Video - The video quality is good for the source these DVDs came from. Most episodes have good color, reasonable detail, and low amounts of noise. There are a few exceptions in which certain episodes feature a purple hue. The hue problem gets progressively worse on episodes near the end of season two but clears up for the three final and important episodes of the series at the end of the season. Glitches with the video do occur but they are very rare.
Audio - The audio is presented in 2.0 Dolby Digital. Most of the time the audio is fine with crisp highs and decent bass, however, there are some glitches present. Several of the music videos and opening sequences have an echo to them that is quite annoying, an example of this is the music video for "Beat This" which is unfortunately ruined by this flaw. The echo is also present throughout two whole episodes and can be quite annoying. The glitches do detract from the set as a whole and it's unfortunate they are present.
Extras - The set comes with a large number of extras on a separate disc, the quantity and quality of the extras provided are the best part of this set. The following extra features are included.
1. 48 minute feature on the creation of the shows which has interviews with most of people involved.
2. 24 minute feature with interviews from the voice over cast.
3. 27 minute feature interviewing Jem fans who discuss their interest for the show.
4. 11 commercials for the toy line, the quality was pretty good for VHS tapes which were submitted by fans.
5. A set of animated storyboards including a unused opening sequence.
6. DVD-ROM: The writers bible in PDF format (as images however), catalogs, and other print material (high resolution images)
7. All 9 Superstar clips (Public Service Announcements) are present and located at the end of the original episodes to which they were attached when first aired.
Packaging - The box itself is sturdy and does not feel cheap, inside are three individual DVD cases which are also high quality. The set features wonderful artwork on the main case and all individual cases.
In conclusion, excusing the somewhat dated looking video quality and rare audio glitches. I'm giving the show 5 stars because of the quality of the characters and writing(see main review). This is the first time the series is available as a complete set and the company involved in the production is fan oriented, giving the fans exactly what they wanted. This is a must have set for any fan of the show or even someone who wants to try a TV show that is very different from many others.
Jem features three music videos spaced evenly throughout each episode breaking up the action nicely, the 80s style mix is the best soundtrack to a television show I've ever heard. The show has a talented voice over cast featuring Britta Phillips (singing voice of Jem), Samantha Newark (Voice of Jem/Jerrica), and Charlie Adler (Eric Raymond) as well as others. Episodes usually involve the rival band the Misfits and their attempts to thwart Jem's plans out of jealously. They are assisted by Eric Raymond whose goal is to regain control of Jerrica's business which he lost early in the series. Eric Raymond is noteworthy as a main antagonist as he uses manipulation, money, and thugs instead of "magical powers" like many other cartoon villains, this brings a sense of reality that you don't often see in a cartoon. Near the end of the series Eric Raymond becomes so ruthless in his ways that it reaches a point of utter cruelty such that you forget you are watching a show made for children. Jerrica Benton(Jem) runs a foster home for girls that is funded entirely by her music company and it's primary act Jem and the Holograms, this noble undertaking gives real consequence to the struggles that occur. The threat of potentially losing her business is a constant fear as it would destroy her charity work. Jerrica also deals with an emotionally draining love triangle due to her dual identity as Jem that involves her boyfriend Rio. This becomes even more complex as the show progresses with the introduction of a new group known as "The Stingers". Jem's inner emotional turmoil is explored throughout the series providing another interesting thread to the story that you might not pick up on until a second viewing.
While Jem has a few bad episodes, usually featuring forced or unoriginal stories, most are lighthearted and fun. If you have a cynical attitude such that you can't stomach positives messages, often find older shows "cheesy", or if you prefer to nitpick 1980s children's cartoons for plot holes (ex. why aren't the villains in jail for assault) then you won't likely enjoy this show. Jem has wonderful characters, great music, and an interesting premise. A great deal of effort was put into character development allowing the viewer to get absorbed into the series following the struggles of the characters until the very end. You might find yourself enjoying a lighthearted episode only to be saddened by an unexpectedly emotional one that follows. Jem isn't political, sexual, violent, or negative yet still manages to be quite entertaining. One difference you might notice is the almost total lack of sarcasm, after watching this show you'll start to observe that in modern shows, even during tense situations, characters are constantly making sarcastic comments. This is a crutch that writers these days use to keep people watching whereas the writers of Jem expect you to appreciate the story as a whole, not just bits and pieces of dialogue.
Jem is a very unique show, with music videos, great stories, and lovable characters, these factors drive the show instead of shock value often found in modern television shows. The writers of the show push Jem beyond your normal children's cartoon making it quite emotionally and thematically complex.
---A short review about the box set itself---
Video - The video quality is good for the source these DVDs came from. Most episodes have good color, reasonable detail, and low amounts of noise. There are a few exceptions in which certain episodes feature a purple hue. The hue problem gets progressively worse on episodes near the end of season two but clears up for the three final and important episodes of the series at the end of the season. Glitches with the video do occur but they are very rare.
Audio - The audio is presented in 2.0 Dolby Digital. Most of the time the audio is fine with crisp highs and decent bass, however, there are some glitches present. Several of the music videos and opening sequences have an echo to them that is quite annoying, an example of this is the music video for "Beat This" which is unfortunately ruined by this flaw. The echo is also present throughout two whole episodes and can be quite annoying. The glitches do detract from the set as a whole and it's unfortunate they are present.
Extras - The set comes with a large number of extras on a separate disc, the quantity and quality of the extras provided are the best part of this set. The following extra features are included.
1. 48 minute feature on the creation of the shows which has interviews with most of people involved.
2. 24 minute feature with interviews from the voice over cast.
3. 27 minute feature interviewing Jem fans who discuss their interest for the show.
4. 11 commercials for the toy line, the quality was pretty good for VHS tapes which were submitted by fans.
5. A set of animated storyboards including a unused opening sequence.
6. DVD-ROM: The writers bible in PDF format (as images however), catalogs, and other print material (high resolution images)
7. All 9 Superstar clips (Public Service Announcements) are present and located at the end of the original episodes to which they were attached when first aired.
Packaging - The box itself is sturdy and does not feel cheap, inside are three individual DVD cases which are also high quality. The set features wonderful artwork on the main case and all individual cases.
In conclusion, excusing the somewhat dated looking video quality and rare audio glitches. I'm giving the show 5 stars because of the quality of the characters and writing(see main review). This is the first time the series is available as a complete set and the company involved in the production is fan oriented, giving the fans exactly what they wanted. This is a must have set for any fan of the show or even someone who wants to try a TV show that is very different from many others.
16 of 16 people found the following review helpful
By Garrett Aja
Format:DVD
The great Marvel/Sunbow cartoon shows of the '80s have had a rough time on DVD. The Rhino DVDs (save for a couple of single-disc releases of The Transformers and The Inhumanoids) were rife with incorrect footage and digitally altered footage, as well as a bit of censorship in one episode of G.I. Joe. And Jem and G.I. Joe didn't even rate full releases before Rhino lost the home video rights. Shout! factory then promised to fix things, but The Transformers still has many, many errors, and G.I. Joe was unchanged from the partial Rhino release (and there were even more things wrong with the episodes new to DVD).
Now, we have Jem. As with the recent reruns on The Hub, Shout! Factory has completely discarded the Rhino DVD masters and gone back to the old 1" broadcast masters. This works even better for Jem, because in addition to re-take issues, the Rhino Jem DVDs had horrific color timing, with Pizzazz's hair being a dull pea green instead of the loud neon green seen originally, and on the doll itself. However, three episodes ("The Beginning", and the first two episodes of Starbright) use versions of the episodes from earlier airings, so there are some extended scenes missing. Most likely, it's because the masters for the final versions of those episodes have the much-reviled "Jem Girls" opening instead of the original version of the theme song. Additionally, the opening and end credits for one episode, "Alone Again", look terrible, and there is dropout of the picture in one shot during the first song. These issues could have been quickly fixed, and are easily the biggest negative features of the whole set.
The sound is a stereoized version of the original mono, which has none of the issues the 5.1 track on the Rhino releases had, such as out-of-sync audio on some songs, and faulty audio at the start of Starbright Part 3. However, as aired on The Hub, certain episodes in the "Season One" portion of this set have instrumental openings and/or end credits, and this has been fixed on this set, but rather oddly, as the lyrics are hard to hear, with an echo chamber-like sound to them. Not a deal-breaker to be certain, but still a bit odd.
The special features are, to use the obvious pun, outrageous! The making-of documentaries feature a very good assortment of people who worked on the show, and hearty acknowledgments to everyone not present (including, sadly, the cast members who are deceased). There's a good number of commercials, which oddly do not feature the faces of the girls in them blurred out, as was the case with the Transformers and G.I. Joe sets. But the true treasure trove is in the DVD ROM material, which includes the bible, catalogs, and even storyboards. The only possible failing of the special features is that the fan documentary features only one male fan.
So, should you buy this set? YES! While the Rhino set had some nice episode commentaries which are sadly not included here, everything else is an upgrade. (Besides, if you're only looking to buy episodes not on the Rhino sets, you'll need two of the three season sets anyways.)
Now, we have Jem. As with the recent reruns on The Hub, Shout! Factory has completely discarded the Rhino DVD masters and gone back to the old 1" broadcast masters. This works even better for Jem, because in addition to re-take issues, the Rhino Jem DVDs had horrific color timing, with Pizzazz's hair being a dull pea green instead of the loud neon green seen originally, and on the doll itself. However, three episodes ("The Beginning", and the first two episodes of Starbright) use versions of the episodes from earlier airings, so there are some extended scenes missing. Most likely, it's because the masters for the final versions of those episodes have the much-reviled "Jem Girls" opening instead of the original version of the theme song. Additionally, the opening and end credits for one episode, "Alone Again", look terrible, and there is dropout of the picture in one shot during the first song. These issues could have been quickly fixed, and are easily the biggest negative features of the whole set.
The sound is a stereoized version of the original mono, which has none of the issues the 5.1 track on the Rhino releases had, such as out-of-sync audio on some songs, and faulty audio at the start of Starbright Part 3. However, as aired on The Hub, certain episodes in the "Season One" portion of this set have instrumental openings and/or end credits, and this has been fixed on this set, but rather oddly, as the lyrics are hard to hear, with an echo chamber-like sound to them. Not a deal-breaker to be certain, but still a bit odd.
The special features are, to use the obvious pun, outrageous! The making-of documentaries feature a very good assortment of people who worked on the show, and hearty acknowledgments to everyone not present (including, sadly, the cast members who are deceased). There's a good number of commercials, which oddly do not feature the faces of the girls in them blurred out, as was the case with the Transformers and G.I. Joe sets. But the true treasure trove is in the DVD ROM material, which includes the bible, catalogs, and even storyboards. The only possible failing of the special features is that the fan documentary features only one male fan.
So, should you buy this set? YES! While the Rhino set had some nice episode commentaries which are sadly not included here, everything else is an upgrade. (Besides, if you're only looking to buy episodes not on the Rhino sets, you'll need two of the three season sets anyways.)
23 of 26 people found the following review helpful
By J. Sewell
Format:DVD
Oh my gosh! I can't believe Jem and the Holograms is out on DVD!!! This was my favorite cartoon growing up as a young girl! I am so buying this for my future daughter, and, alright, totally for myself!!! Jem is Completely Outrageous! For anyone who hasn't seen Jem, you should defiantely watch an episode and you will be hooked...its about your average girl next door who goes secretly transforms into Jem who is WOW and gorgeous and can sing with her Holograms...love story too because both her girl next door self and her outrageous self is in love with the same guy and he is as well not knowing they are the same girl! Great music! I give this 10 out of 10 stars! I can't wait to watch!!!!!
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Nostalgic Box Set
This is a must for anyone who grew up watching Jem / listening to Jem & the Holograms / playing with Jem dolls.
Published 28 days ago by Jean
4.0 out of 5 stars
One Jem Too Many
Jem finally gets its second American DVD release and this time with all 65 episodes! But, why is the show different visually, aurally and in total content from what was previously... Read more
Published 2 months ago by Blue_Nymphalidae
5.0 out of 5 stars
Amazing
I have been a Jem fan since I was a little girl and this is what I have been looking for over many years!
Published 2 months ago by E. Burger
5.0 out of 5 stars
My all-time favorite cartoon!
This was an awesome T.V. show, and when I learned that the DVD set was being released, I went nuts. Supposedly, there are more Jem episodes not featured in this DVD set, so... Read more
Published 2 months ago by Rochelle
5.0 out of 5 stars
LOVED IT
I LIKED THE CHARACTERS AND THE COSTUMES. AND THE HOLOGRAMS THAT WAS USED IN THE SERIES. I LIKED THE SOPNGS THAT WERE USED.
Published 2 months ago by KENNETH RIVERA
5.0 out of 5 stars
Awesome
I recommend to every one - such good deals on movies I buy all the ones I like for myself and my kids
Published 2 months ago by CG
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great Series
This is the first time I saw the complete series and really enjoyed it. I had other shows on the same time like He-Man and Ghostbusters I'm glad to see the series actually ended.
Published 3 months ago by Lita Fan
5.0 out of 5 stars
Totally awesome!
Loved these shows as a kid. Bought em to share with my daughters. This box set is sturdy and doesn't look cheap! I received it sooner than delivery time. Very impressed!
Published 3 months ago by hheather
5.0 out of 5 stars
Wonderful
This cartoon is one of my TOP favorites and I never missed one single episode when I was younger.
So many good memories.
So many good memories.
Published 3 months ago by Maria Tereza Obeide
5.0 out of 5 stars
Jem
I LOVE this cartoon! I am so happy that I have ALL of the seasons on DVD . The books that I purchased were very helpful too. I will continue to purchase from Amazon. Read more
Published 3 months ago by virgo76
