Vampires have begun to become popular again. Perhaps due to the success of the "TWILIGHT" series, but whatever the cause, at least something entertaining has come from it, the HBO series, "TRUE BLOOD." Based on a series of novels, its main character, Sookie, has a lot of drama in her life. All the more suiting, since "TRUE BLOOD" plays a lot like a soap opera, ...well, a "great" soap opera, that is!

Sookie's great love happens to be in love with Bill, a southern gentleman "and" vampire. As entertaining as Season one was, "SEASON 2" is much better. Storylines are more focused and the characters, even the most incidental ones, are intriguing. Creator Alan Ball seems more comfortable this time out, and the shows proceed with a more logical consistency than they had in the previous season. Eric, the vampire anyone would have reason to fear, is somehow more likeable as this season's episodes continue.  This may be due to increased focus on Maryann and her nefarious plans, and it his in her storyline progression wherein the best of "SEASON 2" is found. Mixing mythology, horror and just plain old bad behavior, Ball has made Maryann one of the most entertaining villains in tv/cable history. As with Season one, characters are introduced and killed off, without pause, creating a tension lying below the surface of the show, where other than the main characters, no one, is really safe. It works, and it works extremely well.  Ball has managed to better himself with "TRUE BLOOD: SEASON 2." Let's just hope "SEASON 3," set to air in June, continues to improve the series, just as "SEASON 2" did over "SEASON 1."

HBO has provided the correct 1.78:1 aspect ratio for this AVC MPEG-4 1080p blu-ray. One might not expect the Louisiana Bayou to look appealing, but the rich colors permeating this presentation, make "TRUE BLOOD: THE COMPLETE SECOND SEASON" one of the best looking series available on blu-ray, thus far! Contrast is outstanding, with inky blacks ensuring none of the fine detail becomes lost to the shadows of the night, so prominent in various scenes. Detail is always impressive, and often outstanding! The image never falls flat, and no artifacts are present.

Again, as with all of their series on blu-ray releases, HBO has wisely chosen to offer a DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix for this release!  From the music over the opening credits, one can't help but be impressed by the dynamic range.  While dialogue is prominent and presented with perfect clarity, the mix is consistently immersive, with an array of discrete, panning and bass effects. Many of these effects are subtle, but never-the-less impactful! It's a great mix!

A variety of extras has been included. Every episode comes with the option of "PICTURE-IN-PICTURE" viewing. A variety of facts and pop-ups are here, but also "flashbacks" to major scenes from the first season, and "news feeds"(the weakest part of the series)

Seven audio commentaries are offered for various episodes. All of them are entertaining, and fans will appreciate the insight offered on the one for "RELEASE ME," but our favorite has to be the one for "FRENZY," featuring Creator Alan Ball and others.

"CHARACTER PERSPECTIVES" is self-explanatory and presented in full HD.

Other featurettes vary between 12-25 minutes, and are presented in HD.