DVDs

Seinfeld: The First Three Seasons

After six years of Seinfeld reruns, is a DVD set really necessary? Perhaps not, but even half-hearted fans will find much to enjoy in the long awaited DVD release of the milestone sitcom, available in several configurations. Smartly, the DVD set is loaded with extras. Commentaries by Jerry Seinfeld and other cast members are no surprise, nor are blooper reels, a photo gallery, and promotional trailers. What makes the extras stand out is vintage footage of Seinfeld in two Tonight Show appearances with Johnny Carson and in stand-up routines shot for the show but never aired. A "How It Began" documentary is an amusing reminder of how dumb luck and stubbornness played a huge part in getting Seinfeld on the air. And Kramer fans will enjoy "Kramer vs. Kramer: Kenny to Cosmo," a documentary on Kenny Kramer, the inspiration for the Michael Richards character. Hardcore fans will want to snag the deluxe holiday gift set, which includes both volumes, along with a limited edition script, Monk's Diner salt and pepper shakers, and playing cards.