The Big Bang Theory: The Complete Fourth Season [Blu-Ray]

Typically, when a show starts introducing new characters, it's a sign of decline or an uninspired writing room desperately seeking a new angle, which is why the introduction of three new female cast-members – briefly in season three, but fleshed out in season four – could have signified trouble for The Big Bang Theory. But instead of replacing stale plotlines with unwelcome and unrelated hijinks, these particular additions actually add dimension to the sitcom. In particular, the socially awkward neurologist, Amy Farah Fowler (Mayim Bialik), whose similar disposition to the exceedingly literal and socially dysfunctional Sheldon (Jim Parsons) gives him an ersatz romantic companion while opening up his mind to seemingly irrational social customs. The actual plotline of the show stays the same, with Sheldon playing aggravator and instigator to his group of science geek friends, Leonard (Johnny Galecki), Rajesh (Kunal Nayyar) and Howard (Simon Helberg), while uneducated actress neighbour Penny (Kaley Cuoco) comically integrates, offering the populist, mainstream perspective on their geeky shenanigans. Only now there's the brainy and bubbly Bernadette (Melissa Rauch) to stir up controversy with Howard's pseudo-oedipal complex, while Amy Farah Fowler plays curious outsider with maximum comedic aplomb, trying out lesbian kissing in bars, bowing to peer pressure with liqueur-flavoured ice cream toppings and convincing Sheldon to tell her parents he intends to "have coitus with her vagina." The series is as funny as ever, finding its natural groove while maximizing contrary character juxtapositions by creating scenarios where Penny and Sheldon take acting lessons or go on a road trip. Now, if they'd just get rid of Priya (Aarti Mann)… Included with the Blu-Ray box set are a series of actor interviews where they pair up Bialik and Parsons, Galecki and Cuoco and Nayyar and Helberg to discuss their characters and what it's like to work with each other. It gives some insight into the actors and what it's like working on the show, much like the extended "Big Bang Theory Live" supplement, wherein we see what it's actually like on the set of a live taping. Plus, there are also some special features about the Barenaked Ladies, for the seven people interested.