“The Unit” is a gritty, dark and realistic drama that looks inside the special forces of the Army Rangers. In its second season, now out on DVD, the show follows an elite unit of soldiers as they deploy around the world on different missions. At the same time, it also shows the soldiers’ wives at home, trying to keep things sane with the family as the men are sent into harm’s way.
For die-hard military fans, “The Unit” is a must have. Based on Earl L. Haney’s autobiographical book “Inside Delta Force,” this show makes a habit out of looking and feeling authentic. In some ways, it might be too authentic for some, showing the less-than-glamorous lives and problems of the American soldier. However, as military procedure goes (coming from a non-military guy, that is), you can’t get better.
In this season, the Unit is faced with several challenges. One soldier has a wife with a wandering eye. Another soldier – the newest to the group – is being wooed by the CIA. And the leader of the pack is being scrutinized for legal issues and his age.
I will admit (and you can call me sexist if you like) that I find the military stories far more compelling than the stories at home. Again, they seem to be too realistic, showing the domestic struggles that seem a little boring or whiney to me. I know that the show’s producers tell both sides of the story to maximize the audience, but in my humble opinion, it’s these at-home dilemmas that keep “The Unit” from being a spectacular show.
The six-disc set for Season Two includes behind the scenes documentaries on a couple episodes, as well as a look at the use of weapons on the series. |
