Bonanza: The Official Complete Series

Here it is at last: The finest treatment for a TV classic -- every episode of BONANZA (in "Living Color") -- brilliantly remastered and restored from original film elements so each one now looks like it was made yesterday -- from the rip-roaring pilot and the early classics of the 1959 premiere season to the episodes of the disappointingly truncated (but still outstanding) last season 14 years later. (The story quality of the latest episodes still hold up. BONANZA didn't run out of steam; the network hit the "panic button" and pulled the plug prematurely when ratings dipped.)And the extras! Extraordinary in abundance and quality, accompanying episodes on every disc plus a brand new DVD of only special features. My thoughts on the special features bonus DVD are that I found it to be simply brilliant. It provides a plethora of excellent material that unquestionably justifies not only the cost of the box set but also reinforces the notion that any true fan should own it! The combination of the bonus DVD, enhanced picture quality, and the existing special features surpasses my expectations. It leaves me feeling like I have paid far too little for such an extraordinary experience.The audio/slide show of the last party (held just days after the cast and crew found out NBC cancelled BONANZA with two day's notice, in the middle of production of what became the series' last episode) is my favorite segment on the bonus DVD. I feel as if it grants us, as devoted fans, the unique opportunity to assume the role of a proverbial "fly on the wall." We are able to immerse ourselves in the intimate moment and witness their interactions and emotions firsthand as if we were present in the room with them. It provides us with a captivating glimpse into the lives of this remarkable group of talented individuals in front of and behind the camera who worked side by side for 14 years, forming a close-knit family in the process. The camaraderie and deep connections they developed over the years was apparent as we observed them navigating the waves of disappointment and sadness at the sudden cancellation. Throughout the audio, we hear Lorne Greene and Mike Landon speaking from a place of friendship rather than as infallible heroes, emphasizing the authenticity of their connection and the shared sentiment of loss.And I loved the Telescope episode (which I have been tirelessly searching for over the past two years after catching a tantalizing few minutes of it on the online CBC archives). This segment not only provides fascinating insights into a day in the life of Lorne and his co-stars on the show (actually several days of filming a BONANZA episode), but it also grants us a unique behind-the-scenes perspective. It offers a glimpse into the multitude of shots and the intricate work carried out by the dedicated crew week after week. It instills within me a deep appreciation for the immense effort invested in producing such a phenomenal series. In my opinion, others will also relish this extraordinary bonus feature, as it highlights the extensive team of individuals involved in bringing BONANZA to life.The primary reason for the realization of this landmark series getting first class treatment is the vision and dedication of one persistent individual who won the support of a major distribution company (Paramount - CBS Home Entertainment). The same person who oversaw the release of GUNSMOKE: The Complete Series on DVD, and the DVD releases of all seasons of THE HIGH CHAPARRAL. Undoubtedly, Executive Producer Andrew J. Klyde must be receiving countless accolades for his latest work, and I am pleased to add my sentiments to the list. He truly has outdone himself this time. The dedication and unwavering effort he has poured into creating the BONANZA box set are clearly evident in the final product. It is apparent that Andy possesses a genuine love and loyalty for classic television programs, which shines through in every aspect of his work. I do not doubt that Andy has done justice to the cast and crew, honoring their contributions with utmost care. I can imagine moments when he had to fight tooth and nail to ensure the best possible outcome, preserving their work in all its glory. As an avid fan, I can confidently say Andy has not disappointed. The sheer magnitude of his hard work is palpable and greatly appreciated. And I cannot recommend this set highly enough!!!!

Excellent TV series for any generation that enjoys westerns with good values. After you get past the first few episodes of season 1, the morality and righteousness of the Cartwrights shine through in every well-produced episode. The production quality is stunning, considering that this was a weekly TV show! Each story is very well-written, engaging and feels like a mini-movie. Excellent acting by the main characters and guest characters. I HIGHLY recommend this series for anyone who likes westerns, or wants to teach their sons (and daughters) about bravery to stand up for what is right in morality and helping others.

This set seemed to be the individual seasons offered in one convenient package for a great price. But the opening and closing credits don’t have the pictures. And I think the commercials for Chevrolet are lacking. I don’t know why they didn’t just repackage the original series sets with all of the extras.But I love this show and I can watch the credits on my old DVDs.Edit: I was wrong about the pictures missing from the end credits. I think they are called title cards in old movies. They didn’t show up until the second season so I was hasty about complaining. I love this show and I think this is a great set!

All the episodes with great picture and sound quality, plus tons of extras, at a reasonable price. The show itself is a classic, very entertaining and often discussing socially relevant topics. It's a product of its time, so some of it may seem a little old-fashioned; but that's true of all shows and movies. The strengths of "Bonanza" far outweigh its weaknesses.

I know this set is pricey but it has a lot of special features. I just started watching my copy and I hope and pray the all my discs are fine. I noticed that all the discs are made in Germany I hope they are good. I love the show and picture quality is great for the age of the original 35 millimeter transferrs. Most TV shows of the period were filmed in black and white Bonanza took a risk and filmed every episode in color. Color film was much more expensive than black and white. I also have from Paramount the complete Gunsmoke all 20 seasons and they were great to watch. I love this set and I highly recommend it to all Bonanza fans.

This series is great and I purchased it for my mom who is 92. Our only complaint is that there is not a “play all” option on each cd. I usually set up a show for her when I head home in the evenings but she can’t operate the remote to move to the next episode. Am I missing something or is the set missing this vital option? Thank you for any help you can give me!

The complete collection starting with the pilot through the disappointing final season. The second best western on TV! The color transfer is fantastic! The sound is great also. Adam was my favorite Cartwright so when Pernell Roberts left to me it wasn't the same but when Dan Blocker died that was the end for me. We didn't have a color TV set so I finally will get to see it in all its beautiful color. The $199.00 price is worth having the complete collection. I just sorry for any female that fell in love with a Cartwright as they weren't long for this world! So if you have a grandfather this would make a fantastic gift! One negative is there is no "Play All" for each disk.