PAPER CHASE, THE (CBS 1978-79/SHOWTIME 1983-86) VERY RARE!!! + EXCLUSIVE BONUS!!! John Houseman, James Stephens, Tom Fitzsimmons, James Keane, Betty Harford, Jane Kaczmarek, Lainie Kazan, Diana Douglas, Michael Tucci, Robert Ginty, Peter Nelson

Step into the demanding world of law school with "The Paper Chase," the critically acclaimed TV series that masterfully blends drama, intellect, and the pursuit of justice. Based on the 1973 film and the novel by John Jay Osborn Jr., this series offers a deep dive into the lives of Ivy League Law School students as they navigate their rigorous studies and personal challenges.

Follow the journey of first-year law student James T. Hart (James Stephens) as he grapples with the pressures of academic life under the watchful eye of the brilliant but intimidating Professor Charles W. Kingsfield (John Houseman, reprising his Oscar-winning role).

Hart finds kindred spirits, however, in a study group organized by Franklin Ford III (Tom Fitzsimmons), who aspires to become a third-generation lawyer in his socially prominent family. Others in the group included Tom Anderson (Robert Ginty), Willis Bell (James Keane), Elizabeth Logan (Francie Tacker) and Jonathan Brooks (Jonathan Segal) – the only married person in the group. Brooks eventually left school after he was caught cheating. With his fellow students, Hart learns that success in law requires more than just intelligence; it demands dedication, resilience, and the ability to think on one's feet.

Hart also had a part-time job at Ernie’s Pizza, where he met Carol (Carole Goldman), a waitress who admired him but couldn’t understand his deep dedication to his studies.

Despite being hailed by critics as the best new series of the 1978-79 season – with adult scripts and above-average acting – The Paper Chase was cancelled at the end of the year (although PBS aired reruns for a few years). Some said it was doomed from the start, scheduled against ABC’s blockbuster tandem of Happy Days and Laverne & Shirley, two of the three highest-rated series on television (alongside Three’s Company).

Thankfully, in the first case of its kind, cable network Showtime revised the series in the Spring of 1983 under the new title The Paper Chase: The Second Year. These new episodes introduced James’ new love, Connie Lehman (played by Jane Kaczmarek who later found fame on Malcolm In The Middle), as well as fellow students Rita Harriman (Clare Kirkconnell), Laura (Andra Millian), Vivian (Penny Johnson) and Gerald Golden (Michael Tucci), who was the editor of the Law Review for which Hart was writing.

Then in 1985, another title change, The Paper Chase: The Third Year and two new first-year law students were added. Franklin Ford’s younger brother Tom (Peter Nelson) and former housewife Rose Samuels (Lainie Kazan).

After following James Hart through four years of law school he finally graduated in 1986, (in The Paper Chase: The Graduation Year). Hoping for a teaching position at the law school he had attended. His appointment never happened and he joined a law firm in the last episode.

Other notable characters during the run of the series included Betty Harford as Mrs. Nottingham, Kingston’s devoted secretary, Jack Manning as Dean Rutherford, and Diana Douglas as Professor Tyler.

Throughout its run, The Paper Chase featured a remarkable lineup of guest stars, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to its narrative. Notable appearances include Kim Cattrall, Robert Reed, Don Porter, David Ackroyd, Alan Napier, David Ogden Stiers, Denise Nicholas, John Goodman, Leigh McCloskey, Jane Meadows, Pernell Roberts, David Caruso, Gregory Sierra, David Opatoshu, John Rubinstein, William Schallert, Scatman Crothers, Herb Edelman, John Randolph and Theodore Bikel. These guest stars brought unforgettable characters to life, enriching the show's exploration of the legal world and its impact on those within it.

This 30-disc DVD set also comes with two exclusive bonus segments only found here featuring John Houseman. First, an appearance as Professor Kingsfield in a rare episode from the ABC sitcom The Associates from March 27, 1980. "Eliott's Revenge" pits Kingsfield arguing a case against a very nervous former student Eliot Streeter (Joe Regalbuto). Then, a rare talk show appearance on The Late Show Starring Joan Rivers from October 20, 1986.

Experience the challenges, triumphs, and heartaches of aspiring lawyers in this compelling series that remains a touchstone for anyone who has ever pursued a dream against all odds. With its sharp writing, stellar performances, and profound themes, The Paper Chase is a must-watch for fans of legal drama and classic television alike.

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Number of DVDs: 30

Number of Episodes: 58

Quality: 9.5/10

Running Time: 6 hrs 36 mins (approx)

Aspect Ratio: Fullscreen 1.33:1

NOTES: This is a fan-made DVD set. Not a studio release.