'Spartacus: Blood and Sand -- The Complete First Season'

Though it had attempted original series before, the Starz premium cable network made one of its biggest splashes to date with this often-graphic "swords and sandals" saga. Andy Whitfield stars as the title warrior, who is sold into slavery and battles for himself and his wife ( Erin Cummings), also enslaved and sent elsewhere.

Lucy Lawless, who knows a thing or two about combat from her days as "Xena: Warrior Princess," and John Hannah ("The Mummy") also appear. DVD extras: "making-of" documentaries; audio commentary by cast and crew; outtakes; behind-the-scenes footage. *** (Not rated: AS, P, GV) (Also on Blu-ray)

Buy 'Spartacus: Blood and Sand -- The Complete First Season' on DVD.