Fans of the series that also happen to be into collecting DVD’s will be put off to know that the entire season five comes in double sided DVD’s, that don’t really notify which way is side one or side two. That’s particularly vexing for a show like “The Waltons” that definitely has its share of fans that want proper treatment for it.
And of course, there’s the fact that there are no extras to look through, which is also pretty sad considering “The Waltons” and its history on television as one of the few family shows that are still worth watching. Season Five features the maturing character of John Boy experience some conflicts that go beyond his farm and family. This sets a rift between he and his parents, as he blossoms into a news reporter, and refuses to back down and suffer pressure so he can deliver honest news to the newspaper.
Along with that, the Walton child Mary Ellen marries off in an entertaining “special” episode. Season five sets the path for the departure of Richard Thomas from the role of John Boy in the next seasons, which would then be taken by another actor. Richard Thomas is an entertaining lead actor in the character of John Boy, especially for someone like me who has never seen this series before. “The Waltons: Season Five” is a set that’s comprised of a crisp transfer and excellent sound, it’s just a shame that the discs and special features weren’t treated with just as much concern.