Torchwood season two arrives on Blu-ray and the excellent British sci-fi series that spun right out of the latest incarnation of Doctor Who has found a firm standing among its fans, including strong stories by its creators.

Once again, the diverse personalities of the Torchwood Institute return that include Captain Jack Harness, an immortal who also happens to be their commander in chief, technophile Toshiko Sato (Naoko Mori), medical officer Dr. Owen Harper (Burn Gorman) and "Mr. fix it", Ianto Jones (Gareth David-Lloyd) and finally Gwen Cooper (Eve Myles)

Some of the social commentary in the series such as the sex scenes and relationships have been toned down and this shock factor is now firmly part of the story which assists in progressing the stories and characters. The creators have also upped the ante for the characters as this season is more dangerous than before and unlike other science fiction series, people actually die in Torchwood, including main supporting characters which makes the experience that just more nail biting and realistic, especially for a science fiction series.

From alien terrorists to a very heart wrenching story about a soldier from the First World War, season two of Torchwood easily surpasses the original season and it even contains a touch of sophisticated humour along the way which makes the characters that little bit more relatable. The episode with the memory thief is definitely one of the highlights of this season who has the power to draw out the secrets from the team.

On Blu-ray, the video quality is quite sharp with vibrant colours and realistic black levels, making this a very impressive transfer. Seeing realistic skin tones, you automatically know that the quality is generally going to be good and Torchwood the complete Second Season is no exception to the rule. The audio matches the video quite well and the battle scenes sound phenomenal, especially with the use of surround sound. Add in crystal clear dialogue, good levels of sound and some great background music and for a TV series, the Blu-ray version cannot be faulted.

For fans of the series or those interested in the behind the scenes, Torchwood contains commentaries, the Torchwood: Declassified episodes which are behind the scene featurettes, delete scenes and a great outtake reel. Our favourite extras was the documentary entitled "The Life and Deaths of Captain Jack" which is narrated by the Doctor's companion, Martha Jones (Freema Agyeman).

In conclusion,  Torchwood: The Complete Second Season really finds its feet in this season with stronger characterisation, better stories and even some improved special effects which work better with an adult orientated sci-fi series. Another great series has arrived on Blu-ray!

Episodes

Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang
Sleeper
To the Last Man
Meat
Adam
Reset
Dead Man Walking
A Day in the Death
Something Borrowed
From Out of the Rain
Adrift
Fragments
Exit Wounds

Special Features

Deleted Scenes
Out-takes
The Life and Deaths of Captain Jack
Declassified cut-downs