My So-Called Life is a must-have collectable gem for anyone who’s nostalgic about their early teen life, with all of its awkwardness, insecurity, fear, hope, joy and pain. Everyone can find a piece of themselves in any one of the characters of this stellar cast of "then" up and comers. The hairstyles and clothes have changed since the series’ debut in 1994, but the underlying teenage angst is undoubtedly timeless. At the time, My So-Called Life presented an honest inside look at the many relatable relationship struggles between teens and parents, friendships, sexuality and discovery, first crushes and, of course, those embarrassing zits! So ladies, have you ever asked yourselves why we always fell for the mysterious, dreamy eyed teenage rebel?

Perhaps the most interesting feature within the chock-full-of-bonuses DVD is the poignant, candid conversation between a now adult Claire Danes and the series’ incredibly talented creator and writer, Winnie Holzman. All of these years later, it’s easy to tell what a special bond the two women had. It was Holzman’s challenge to get inside the head of a teenage girl and tell it truthfully. To sit in on their conversations gives a unique insight into the profound affect this series had on all involved. Claire Danes was a mere 13 years old when she was selected for the lead role over Alicia Silverstone. The role was ALL Claire Danes from the start and became her breakout role. The honesty in her performances evoked such stark realism that gave My So-Called Life the legitimacy for a coming of age television series like no other. It’s no wonder it attracted such a cult following.

Obviously much of the cast and crew felt the same about this series, as so many returned to provide new interviews and commentary for this beautifully packaged collectable. The wonderfully designed box also contains a great little book with commentaries by Holzman, as well as the great Joss Whedon, creator of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. In addition, there are tons of photos, quotes from the episodes and so many other appealing treasures to enjoy so many years later.

Flipping through the photo gallery was like a voyeuristic blast from the past of my own quiet alternative teen rebellion. My So-Called Life was the only television show I personally wrote the studio to plead with them not to cancel. And now all fans, and new generations of fans, can own it for all time on DVD.