gonelunch1 Reviews

Moral Orel (2005–2009)

Unbelievably well done

[10/10 · 4 January 2009]

This is an amazing show. The Williams Street (southern corporate bods zieg heil ted turner) bods canceled it after 3 seasons, but it was amazing. Not only did it walk a fine line between criticizing a putative deity and criticizing the morons who choose to speak in the deity's name, but it also showed us how actual adults (inevitably marginalized in Moralton) do adult things like move on and call a halt to unproductive relationships. (Stephanie and Danielle respectively). The ending is unexpected and unbelievably sweet - it makes me cry every time. I can't wait to see what DS does next!

If you get the chance to see this on DVD, be sure to check the extras. I'm an auditory learner but DS's commentary made me go back and look at the visuals and they were amazing!

Back at the Barnyard (2007–2011)

Just plain fun!

[9/10 · 21 October 2008]

OK, this isn't Robot Chicken, but it is well written with spot-on pop references and nicely developed characters. Yes, Otis has an udder. No, I don't know why the "totally vegan" farmer keeps a farmyard full of animals (but it's nice to know my little animated friends are safe). The story lines actually keep me guessing, and the CGI is surprisingly sophisticated, especially for a TV show. Watching this show is a little like going to a Bowling for Soup concert - don't go into it expecting a deeply intellectual experience, just prepare for a terrific party!

Nick's new cartoons have been a mixed bag lately, with some uninspired entries (Tak and the Power of Juju) and some terrible ones (The Mighty B). This show is a welcome reminder of just how good Nick can be.

Seven Keys to Baldpate (1929)

Thoroughly enjoyable!

[9/10 · 1 October 2008]

This 1929 movie is definitely a product of its time. There are fast- talking conmen, brilliantined inhabitants of Arrow collars, and tough molls talking out of the sides of their mouths. For me, though, it's one of the best of its type. There is some genuine suspense and if one hasn't seen any of the OTHER dozen or so versions, the plot will keep you on your toes.

The story is, by design, a little far-fetched and the reason for that, when we learn it, is hilarious. But the characters and their motives are refreshingly human and realistic. Who hasn't been inclined to take themselves a little too seriously? Who hasn't decided to administer a little pinprick to a friend's pomposity? None of the actors was particularly active during the silent era, and it shows. The acting is much more naturalistic than that of the typical recycled silent-movie actor of the time. These are real people with real neuroses, crushes, and vanities, and they sparkle with real mischief.

Don't miss this one, and don't be put off by the early date. It is a fast-paced, clever delight of a movie. Enjoy!

The Mighty B! (2008–2011)

Smack!

[2/10 · 17 August 2008]

Remember the last time you were stuck on an airplane and the annoying brat in the next row kept wiggling, squirming, talking and kicking the seat for the whole flight? Bessie is that kid. She is a hyper little geekwad with a painfully abrasive voice, and is so irritating that this show just isn't fun to watch. What's more, the show lacks the multidimensional humor that would make it amusing for adults as well as children. Instead, there are potty jokes; racial, class, religious and regional stereotypes; and the central joke of Bessie's completely nonexistent social skills. It's hard to connect to Bessie or feel anything about her except the desire for her to shut up! The animation is OK in a '90's Ren and Stimpy-ish way but like the rest of the show, it seems they made it intentionally frenetic just to cover up the lack of anything genuinely interesting. Nick has canned better toons without giving them time to develop. I hope they consign this stinker to the bottom of the bin and use the resources for something decent.