In the past, I've mentioned more than a few times that I am no lover of reality TV. The main reason is simply that the term 'reality' when describing these shows is way off the mark. Any right thinking person watching these shows has to recognize the 'reality' is at the mercy of the cameramen and editors. (Of course, why any right thinking person would watch any of these shows is beyond me anyway…) I should also mention the fact that I also steer clear of these shows in the hopes that the ratings will drop enough to make the studio suits get rid of these shows and go back to the more creative act of scripting TV. That said, A&E TV (whom I normally revere, yet have recently questioned for jumping on the 'reality' TV bandwagon) released a 'Best of' set for it's series, "Inked." As far as reality shows go, this one at least piqued my interest because I'm into tattoos, sport one myself and plan to add many more over the next few years. But like most people who get tattoos, I have only waited because the artwork has to mean something to me.

That's where this series has its most interesting moments. Hearing why someone is going to get a particular tattoo is far more interesting than following the day to day antics of the owners and operators of the first tattoo parlor to open up inside a Las Vegas casino.

The Hart & Huntington Tattoo Company is focus of this series; it is just as I said… a look into the business dealings and behind the scenes shenanigans of Carey Hart and his employees. These guys certainly do stand out in a crowd, considering the glitz and glamour that surrounds their otherwise dark and rebellious appearance. They end up spending most of the time posturing and arguing, and as is the case of most reality shows, it seems apparent that most of it is for the camera. What I'd really like to see is what happens after the cameras are turned off. The series itself has its moments of interest, and again I say it is when they focus their attention of some of the customers.

My biggest question about the DVD release is why the studio opted to put out a 'Best of Season 1' compilation as opposed to a full blown season. There were 25 episodes in the 1st season, but here there are only eight available. If for no other reason than to have an opportunity to see more of the customers and their stories, I would have liked to have seen a full set release.

In spite of the lack of episodes and my normal disdain for reality TV, the 'Best of Season 1' collection of "Inked" makes for a worthwhile watch for those interested in the world of tattooing. You won’t see what the lives of 'real' tattoo artists are like (these guys are more tattoo posers), but you'll see some awesome artwork. You might even get a few ideas of what you want on your arm someday….

Extras: Crew Biographies, Shop Talk
Specifications: Full Screen, Dolby Digital 2.0 Surround Sound
Studio: A&E
Release Date: 1/31/2006
Region 1
MPAA Rating: NR
Website

We'll give Inked a C.