Shadows then you're a B5 fan and will want to add this to your collection. Otherwise, grab the series and enjoy it first to fully appreciate this compilation.
The Gathering is a good intro to the characters and the world of Babylon 5. Screened well before the series aired, some of the alien makeup and costumes look, well, dodgy to say the least but it contains plenty of the humour that Joe writes so well. CGI was in its infancy in the 90's so B5 showcased some pretty groundbreaking SFX for TV. For the fans, see if you can spot “Mr Morden” in a different role.
In the Beginning is a good retrospective story of the Earth/Minbari war referred to in the series and has some great action sequences. Be aware that it contains lots of spoilers if you haven't already watched B5. And watch out for a brief glimpse of the fantastic Michael York.
Thirdspace is a stunner, action packed with cool effects and some creepy moments. Sci Fi artist Wayne Barlowe, a B5 fan, was commissioned to design the new creature. The first movie shot for the franchise, it's a stand-alone story with enough exposition to pull in new viewers.
There have been some great guest performances throughout the series and The River of Souls has Martin Sheen cast as a Soul Hunter. Although likeable in the role, he stumbles through finding his character under heavy prosthetics. But it's a special skill – Wayne Alexander is to B5 as Doug Jones is to Hellboy and Pan's Labyrinth. This one feels more like an extended episode than a film.
Ignore any bad reviews you've read about A Call to Arms – this one's a real gem. Aside from the first 10.39 mins (a good time to make a cup of hot Jala) it's a very cool intro to the spin-off series, Crusade. A great story which mixes the action with some real heart and soul. Check out the special features to find out if you really can hear explosions in space.
Overall, my main criticism is that there's not enough of Londo and G'Kar. On the upside, most of the series regulars have roles and yes, Tracy Scoggins does look hot in saucy lingerie.