'Development' Delights on DVD

"Arrested Development: Season Two" (List price: $39.98)
Release Date: Oct. 11

American television viewers, what will it take to get you to watch "Arrested Development"?

The offbeat comedy about the beyond-dysfunctional Bluth family has won six Emmy Awards. It's been universally lauded by critics. Yet in recent weeks, the most hilarious show on television has been bested in its time slot by ABC's "Wife Swap" and the WB's "Seventh Heaven."

Word is that "Arrested" may not be around much longer. Whatever the show's fate, at least we have the DVDs, including this week's release of "Arrested Development: Season Two."

Every gleefully weird moment from all 18 episodes is included in this three-disc set, from an uproarious memorial service for the still-very-much-alive George Bluth Sr. (played by Jeffrey Tambor) to the introduction of Tobias's alter ego, the "Mrs. Doubtfire"-like Mrs. Featherbottom. Performances by the stellar ensemble cast are enhanced by cameo appearances from Ben Stiller, Zach Braff, Ione Skye, Martin Short and Julia Louis-Dreyfuss.

The extras aren't quite as extensive as those found on the DVD of the first season, but they still deliver some giggles, particularly the numerous deleted and extended scenes. A three-minute summary of season one; three commentary tracks by series creator Mitch Hurwitz and several cast members; and an eight-minute blooper reel round out the collection.

As painful as it is for fans to face, it may be too late to save "Arrested Development." But it's not too late to savor every delightfully loopy moment on this DVD. Mrs. Featherbottom would want it that way.

Most Hilarious Bonus Points: Several of the deleted scenes on discs two and three had me doubled over with laughter. My favorites: a bit in which Lucille (the sublime Jessica Walter) orders roses saturated with vodka while in rehab and a silly, extended fight scene between Gob (Will Arnett) and Michael (Jason Bateman).

Most Disappointing Bonus Point: Though several of the show's key stars participate in the commentaries, three of the primary players -- Bateman, Tambor and Portia di Rossi -- are notably absent. Come on, it's not the Bluth family unless every last Bluth is present.

Also New on DVD This Week: "Kicking and Screaming," "Kingdom of Heaven" and "Me and You and Everyone We Know."

Coming in Next Week's 'Bonus Points': A review of "Batman Begins."

If you have feedback about "Bonus Points" or want to suggest a DVD for review, e-mail Jen Chaney.