This review is spoiler-free, since the series is still relatively new. I do make open-ended references to the direction of where certain character arcs are going, and use screenshots from all of Episode 1. I am used to just spoiling every bit of everything in my very-late reviews, that it got a little weird hinting at things and describing my reaction to certain twists. Hopefully it makes sense what kinds of later developments I am referencing. Next time, maybe I should just make a complete spoiler-y review when Part 2 comes out. :p
I'm sure you've gotten a million requests to do this, but do you have any plans to do 60 Second Reviews, character histories and mysteries for Futurama and, after it's around for a while, Disenchantment episodes?
I really appreciate you going the extra mile to make this spoiler-free, I'm sure it will help a lot of people who haven't seen it decide to check it out. However, as someone who has seen Part 1, I would honestly love to hear your opinions on what you thought of the twists and turns in detail. Either way, looking forward to whatever you put out next!
Thanks to your vid I understand you and others falling in love with Disenchantment. Do you think this would have happened as well if it would not have been for netflix? Would you have stayed with the show when you had to watch one episode of Disenchantment every week on TV at a given time with commercials inbetween and then wait another week for the next episode, another year for next season?
Isaac Osborn who the heck was expecting this to be a Saturday morning cartoon? I agree that fact it’s not the Simpsons is a bit jarring. It actually feels more like Futurama to me though, just not as funny.
Noel Fielding's character, the executioner, was an underrated highlight of the show mostly due to his awesome voice work. Was really bummed he only voiced in one episode, despite his character being around a lot, so I hope he has more of a role in a second season.
thedogoffaleash I like that they got some great English voice talent such as Noel fielding and Matt Berry and others. They definitely added something to the show.
@@kskillen2001 he uses more of his The Hitcher voice as The Executioner. I didn’t notice it was him the first time until I saw his name in the credits though.
I like how they portray bean’s relationship with her father. Like she’s a disappointment but they still love and make jokes off of each other. It feels more realistic.
Pretty surprised you didn’t mention the similarities between the Bean/Elfo/Luci dynamic and the Leela/Fry/Bender dynamic. Although I’m glad you mentioned why Elfo and Bean doesn’t work while Fry and Leela does
Really nice review. I honestly think your review for this show is the most even I've seen from any reviews I've seen on UA-cam so far. I honestly think some of the other reviews I've seen focus way too much on the show's rocky start, and don't spend too much time talking about how the show gets much better in it's last few episodes. I thought the same thing with how a number of shows may start out rocky in their first seasons, and that's why I didn't get too impatient with the show's hit or miss first few episodes. I honestly think that from the sixth episode onward is when it starts to pick up. While the last three episodes are the better of this season, I still thought episodes 6 and 7 had a lot of interesting things in them. I'm also glad that we have a lot of Matt Groening alumni in the voice cast, with Tress MacNeille, John DiMaggio, Maurice LaMarche, Billy West, and David Herman all as main cast members. Though, it looks like David Herman is just going to be more of a utility player on this series like he was in Futurama. I really hope more Matt Groening alumni appear on the show at some point, like Dan Castellaneta, Frank Welker, Phil LaMarr, Nancy Cartwright, and Hank Azaria. Also, please let Rob Paulsen appear on the show. After failing to get on Futurama, Rob really deserves a break in getting to be in one of Matt Groening's shows. Overall, good review, and I am really anticipating what the show will dish out in the future. It has the potential to be another winner for Matt Groening.
I find that Jim's greatest strength is reviewing things on their own merits. Yes, the creators and the context in which the came out is important. But he generally treats it more as flavour that explains certain decisions instead. Another example of that sort of rocky start to better show is happening with F is For Family, which had a weak first season but has been really picking up and working hard.
I think they were trying too hard too quickly with that arc. He is such an idealistic, innocent sort of character that I'm guessing they thought it was going to come off as a childlike crush, but it doesn't. Episode 4 (the castle party) is probably the worst one in the entire run, just because Elfo is such an obnoxious jealous creep during the whole thing. I think the dynamic is played way better in the 7th episode (with the giant) because it is more silly and ridiculous, and Elfo actually gets a comeuppance and finally learns something.
While we were watching it, my friend Joe joked about ‘incElfo’, and while he *was* joking, it’s hard not to agree a little bit. Him having a crush on Bean is one thing; him basically throwing a tantrum when she has the AUDACITY (/s) to do something like sleep with a man who isn’t him was cringeworthy. I think the problem is that he’s initially set up as childlike and naïve, and trying to tease a romantic subplot between someone like that and someone like Bean (cynical and embittered) just feels wrong on almost every level. There doesn’t NEED to be a romantic subplot, now or ever. I like the show but the attempt at teasing an Elfo/Bean subplot just feels like a lazy, poorly-thought-out rehash of Fry and Leela.
Its a shame this series is getting panned at the moment, because while I thought the first few episodes definetly weren't that great, the show really picks up later on, and it left me wanting more by the end. I feel like it's just gonna take a few seasons for it to get to the level that The Simpsons or Futurama were during their peak. The first season or two of The Simpsons weren't exactly great either. We just need to give it time
I'm really glad you put out a video about your thoughts on the series, your opinion on anything related to Groening or Weinstein is worth its weight in gold
Thanks for providing your take on the series so far! I was hoping to see some analysis and speculation on what the next chapter holds - but this is just a spoiler-free review after all. I want Itchy and Scratchy to get to that Fireworks Factory.
Finally! Its great to see an honest review that doesn't pander to the first 3 episodes rule, and just gives the facts! Thanks for your awesome honesty!
Best review on UA-cam by a fortnight (heh heh). But seriously, couldn’t be more certain. The Herald is my favorite character because he delivers the jokes quick. Though, my favorite episode is Swamp and Circumstance because of Bean’s drunken antics. Like you said, Abby Jacobson did a spectacular job for Bean’s character. Also, you must realize that episodes for this show is 30 minutes, not 20 like Futurama or the Simpsons, so this opens more doors to show more stuff. Anyway, love ya man. See ya round
Also, I would love to see you do videos on Futuram's lore and characters like you do for the Simpsons. I watch your Simpsons stuff, and I would absolutely watch the crap out of any Futurama stuff you did.
Spoilers, but I wanted to throw my two cents in. But also keep in mind that this is a show I'ved fully watched twice, and has, in my opinion, some of the most clever writing to come in recent years. I feel like both Elfo and Bean have very big problems when it comes to their characters over the course of the series. Elfo especially has some problems, concerning how he is supposed to act. I find it weird with how often he flips between being a naive, happy go lucky elf, to suddenly being almost perverted in nature and actions. Bean also has problems, mostly with how she is supposed to act. She is completely fine with cleaning up piles upon piles of dead bodies, killing a priest and other crimes, but stops when a seemingly insane witch, that by all accounts seemed guilty is presented for execution? That doesn't add up.
I agree with you, it picked up a lot of steam by the last 3 episodes that I am hooked for the next season. I'm glad they made it have a season-long story arch when I thought there wouldn't be any real focus after the first few episodes.
Thank you for this ive been wanting to watch this but was scared it wouldnt be as good as i hoped, but you seem to really enjoy so i imagine i would too
Funnily enough, i quited watching this show after the 6th episode and then went back to watch this review as i didn't want to create preaccusations about the show before i even had watched it. Being told that the show picks up pretty much where i left off is kind of a funny coincidence.
I feel like they're going for kind of a Good Omens thing with Elfo and Luci where they are influenced by human society to become more like eachother and by that more human. The innocent and easygoing Elfo is becoming more of a cynical jerk and the mischievous demon Luci is becoming more of a lovable softie. With Bean in the middle representing humankind by initially possessing all of these traits. Also, I like how even the silliest of throw-away gags turns out to be relevant plot points much later in the series.
I really enjoyed both Disenchanted and your review of it! One question: what plot point were you talking about when you said that there was one reveal that turned around something you were going to complain about on you? I might be being thick, but I couldn’t figure it out. Anyway, thank you so much for your videos! I love watching them; you have a very soothing voice and make very cogent points when critiquing the plot, structure, etc. of the media you watch!!
Hey there, here's what I was referring to: (spoilers below for people who haven't watched it) I was referring to Elfo's name at that point in the review. I thought it was really annoying and uncreative that the writers named the elf character Elfo. Drove me up the wall during my initial watch... Was kind of wondering why everyone wasn't complaining about it. But the reveal makes it great! If you were trying to gloss over the fact your kid is only half-elf, of course you'd name him Elfo! (I couldn't figure out how to describe that part of the review without totally ruining the twist for everyone, lol.)
Really liked the video, nice to see some positivity on that subject. Also, since you mentioned Gravity Falls will you ever make a video on that show (or other shows like that)?
I could do a random Gravity Falls review at some point. Ended up streaming it all a few months ago since it was pretty short and people said it was good. I thought it was a well-written show with a lot of funny dialogue and intrigue, but thought it lost some momentum in Season 2.
i liked it enough to finish it. which says something, because i get bored in three seconds and change the movie. i have no attention span. but the art was good enough (not amazing, just good enough) and the characters likable enough, voice acting really top notch, to really get me invested enough to finish. i liked it. i'm curious what's going to happen next, and that's a great start.
I really like it and would echo much of what you've said about it. My concern is unrealistic expectations both from Netflix and the audience. The show is safe for season 2, because Netflix's commission on a two series contract, but many Netflix's comedy shows with a pre-built fandom (Wet Hot American Summer, Arrested Development) return for their second season with noticeably smaller budget and end up desperately trying to wrap everything up. If Netflix's expect this to be next Simpsons, I think they are gonna be disappointed. I'm 100% concerned the audience has unrealistic expectations, so many people only have gone in expecting season 4-9 of simpsons (or nostalgic but false memory of the Simpsons, that doesn't fit their modern animated comedy humour). So many online have slated the show and given up after the first episode. Also "Hi, I'm Elfo" filled me with warm the more I heard it.
I'm hoping that having a big name like Matt Groening involved will give the series a slightly longer leash than others. At least a third set of 10 episodes, although I could see them begrudgingly giving him a full set of 20 because of the way animation costs scale. I bet Netflix wants to merchandise the show too. I think the producers of the show miscalculated a little with the slow burn of the first season... I think they gambled on the nature of streaming that they could spread things out more, but didn't put together a strong enough opening hook to hold initial intrigue. Something like Stranger Things had a really big inciting incident (at least in Season 1) that hooked viewers in. I think Disenchantment's word of mouth improved a little when people discovered how good it finishes, it's just hard to get over that initial hump of disappointment press. I agree that expectations were just a little too high. I really think some of the perceived slowness is just the process of getting used to new characters, typical Season 1 hurdles. I'm kind of nervous about Part 2 now. I really think the show is going in a good direction now, but it's very possible I will be disappointed. The next set of episodes will be critical.
this show was class, was just a shame nothing interesting happened between episode 3 and 7. some decent jokes and enjoyable writing and characters, imo the narrative needs to be tightened and the world-building needs to continue.
TBH I don't mind that it started off a bit slowly because it really picked up pace as the season went on and they really paid things off as we approached the season finale. One of my favorite moments was the scene where Bean is swinging the axe to execute the witch from the forest. They were parodying a similar scene from game of thrones with the sombre music and the stylish slow mo and I was so drawn in by the mood created that the punchline caught me surprise when they revealed that it was actually in real time and that Bean was actually swinging the axe very slowly because she was very hesitant to be an executioner. In fact I really liked that episode as a whole, Noel Fielding was funny as the executioner with an extremely non threatening voice. I hope disenchantment is picked up for a second season. I think the writers and show runners have a handle now on which aspects to emphasize to make season 2 even better than season 1. But more than that I think the things I like the most about the show is that they've made an effort to make it more than just futurama but medieval. They have most of the voice talent from futurama but they're all doing supporting roles the 3 leads aren't from a previous Matt groening joint. This gives the show a certain freshness. Bean, Elfo and Luci have a similar dynamic to Leela, Fry and Bender but because the voice actors are different that similar character dynamic isn't on the nose. And I have to say that the difference in pacing suits the setting of the show much better than if they tried to pace it exactly like futurama. It helps the world it's set in to feel a bit more lived in, more like how things would feel in an age of swords and sorcery. And the adoption of a fully serialized storyline is a wise move by the show runners for this type of story. An episodic format would have made it impossible to pay things off and the events of each episode would feel kinda pointless if they reset completely by the end of the episode
As far as Disenchantment goes, it's actually pretty fast as far as jokes go, but it does a lot of small background gags. I love all the little details this show throws your way, as it lends itself to the binge watching format.
After this, I'd love to hear you're thoughts on The Critic. For my part, I think that there were some good bits in there, but, like disenchantment, it suffered strange pacing that impacted its delivery.
For some reason, I could just never get into The Critic. I wanted to like it more but it never quite clicked for me. I think it got too repetitive with its jokes/plots about what a loser Jay is. There were a lot of really memorable characters, though.
For me the series was okay. While the first 7 episodes are decent the last three is where the series shines ... with its story. The jokes I feel are a little weak with the timing coming off as slow instead of the rapid fire we expect from Groenings other shows. That being said I will watch the next series since the series has my attention considering they end it on a cliffhanger. Hopefully they don't pull a Buckaroo Banzai on it.
My only problem with the show is that it is oddly quiet. In places where there should be music or general sound effects, it’s just empty. I haven’t seen the second part yet though so it may have changed.
Loved the review, it literally made me want to watch it all over again, it had a lot of funny times and I loved the characters so far, usually I am not able to watch something like this but I was actually hooked after the first episode. Many parts of it made me laugh, some parts made me shrug or yawn.. but all in all the series kept me hanging in until the end, now I wait for the new episodes that are coming in 2019... some time...
The annoying thing with elfo is that the moment he left elf land, it was like his personality swapped. He went from the playboy in elf land into the goofball that we are supposed to root for as the underdog to get the girl out of his league. but totally agree, the story had me plodding along thinking "I'm watching season 1 for the sake of it", then I got to the end of it and was like "I. WANT. MORE!!! MORE I SAY!!!!!!!"
More pauses doesn'T mean more build-up, it means that the writers need padding in oder to get as much episodes as possible with as less wrinting as possible.
The Real Jim's, I've heard about this series from friends that Love The Simpson's like myself & they've recommended it. Since you've analyzed the this (part 1) of this series I'll try to stream from a friend's Netflix. Sadden That Simpson's is no longer what it once was, relevant & apart of the Decade, happy Groening is sorta moving on. Obvious he lost interest in it years ago & has since been collecting checks from Fox. The series should've ended at season 9/10, the episode with Homer's reunion & lost of his Mother where he looks out at the Stars should've been saved for the Series Finale 😭. What a way to wrap Homer's journey a bafoon yes, but a flawed loving Man (Father). Would love to see the same dedication to The Simpson's applied to Futurama & King of the Hill, probably not as much as The Simpson's you're only human. Just my 2 (measly) cents. You have the best Simpson's content, & what a majestic voice. 🍻 hombre.
Honestly I loved this show. I love Elfo so much! The only thing I didn’t really like was that Lucy to me feels like a chiller version of bender they make a lot of the same types of jokes but I think I like Lucy more than bender.
I liked this show and was really funny, but I think the main plot could've had more focus throughout the season and a bit more drama the way Final Space has. Completely different shows I know, but I can't help the comparison since I watched them back to back
I saw one review for this show when the first season came out, the reviewer admitted it was a bit disappointed by the end result, that they couldn't decide what they were parodying, and how they were trying to be deconstructive with a lot of Game of Thrones theming, even though Game of Thrones already was a deconstruction. I did see the first few episodes of the show eventually, they were... okay. There were moments where I felt like they skipped a beat, like there was meant to be dialogue there but for some reason there wasn't. It was kind of odd. Haven't gotten back to the show since, maybe it's gotten better, who knows.
The first season felt odd compared to the rest of the series. A lot of the humor was very obscure, limiting itself to theater geeks, literature majors, and history buffs. It felt like it was trying to prove itself. Post premiere seasons feel more accessible and I think it was very good the show was renewed.
I hope the writers do get their groove for serialization soon. Though doesn't the mom queen look just like Moon Butterfly? Also Matt Groening can't write well, he got lucky with better writers like Gene Roddenberry and Mike & Bryan of Airbender.
This show is a slow burn, and does have a few clunky parts here and there...however, it was much better then I thought, like on par with Futurama. Plus I did like the character Bean. Though I’ll admit one of my gripes is how it ends, I hope it gets a second season.
I'll do a second video covering "Part 2" when Netflix releases it, but this video is just covering the first mini-season they released. It's kind of confusing that they named it "Parts" instead of "Seasons" because it makes it look like this review is incomplete.
I do not know why every body hates it because it looks similar to Futurama. It is not Simpsons heartwarming or Futurama funny but I see potential for an epic adventure hope they do not disappoint in season 2.
What ever they do they must make sure they don't change luci I love his character most show do that like family Guy they changed Stewie from being an evil genius to whatever he is now
This review is spoiler-free, since the series is still relatively new. I do make open-ended references to the direction of where certain character arcs are going, and use screenshots from all of Episode 1.
I am used to just spoiling every bit of everything in my very-late reviews, that it got a little weird hinting at things and describing my reaction to certain twists. Hopefully it makes sense what kinds of later developments I am referencing. Next time, maybe I should just make a complete spoiler-y review when Part 2 comes out. :p
SPOIL THE SHOW DO IT DO IT DO IT
I'm sure you've gotten a million requests to do this, but do you have any plans to do 60 Second Reviews, character histories and mysteries for Futurama and, after it's around for a while, Disenchantment episodes?
I really appreciate you going the extra mile to make this spoiler-free, I'm sure it will help a lot of people who haven't seen it decide to check it out. However, as someone who has seen Part 1, I would honestly love to hear your opinions on what you thought of the twists and turns in detail. Either way, looking forward to whatever you put out next!
Do it, do a spoilery pt 2.
The internet demands it.
Thanks to your vid I understand you and others falling in love with Disenchantment. Do you think this would have happened as well if it would not have been for netflix? Would you have stayed with the show when you had to watch one episode of Disenchantment every week on TV at a given time with commercials inbetween and then wait another week for the next episode, another year for next season?
TheRealJims - The only voice I trust in this field
Tim Zettel same ok I’ve seen so many reviews in my suggested page but this was the only o trusted to watch
Yeh snap
in black and white
Amen to that
He is the only real Jim after all.
I can't look at Elfo and not think of Bart. They really couldn't have redesigned his clothing to make him not look like Bart?
Mabey they should have given him a blue shirt instead ;).
He looks like Hugo ... _fish heads, fish heads._
I never once thought of Bart. Maybe its just you?
@Kaveighleen Jacaster maybe
Well if you're doing this, could you do Futurama......in the future.
That's actually something i would love to watch......in the near future, not waiting a thousand years
In the WORLD OF TOMORROW!!!!! *dramatic voice*
-rama.
He's done it in the past a long long time ago he did a top ten futurama episodes.
I honestly don't know why you limit yourself to the Simpsons, you videos are amazing no matter the topic
All the reviews I’ve seen have been negative bc it’s not the Simpsons and it’s not a Saturday morning cartoon. I thought that was the whole point...
Isaac Osborn who the heck was expecting this to be a Saturday morning cartoon?
I agree that fact it’s not the Simpsons is a bit jarring.
It actually feels more like Futurama to me though, just not as funny.
I've not seen any review explicitly mention the Simpsons without prefacing it with "Matt Greoning, creator of".
ajmrowland literally, just let the thing stand on its own
"but why isn't this show on netflix like the simpsons was like 20 years ago"
@@izzyosborn637 yeah. And on top of that, most of the disappointment seems to be from Futurama fans.
I disagree on the pilot episode of Futurama. It's a classic.
Noel Fielding's character, the executioner, was an underrated highlight of the show mostly due to his awesome voice work. Was really bummed he only voiced in one episode, despite his character being around a lot, so I hope he has more of a role in a second season.
thedogoffaleash I like that they got some great English voice talent such as Noel fielding and Matt Berry and others. They definitely added something to the show.
I didnt even notice noel was in it.
@@kskillen2001 he uses more of his The Hitcher voice as The Executioner. I didn’t notice it was him the first time until I saw his name in the credits though.
I like how they portray bean’s relationship with her father. Like she’s a disappointment but they still love and make jokes off of each other. It feels more realistic.
Pretty surprised you didn’t mention the similarities between the Bean/Elfo/Luci dynamic and the Leela/Fry/Bender dynamic. Although I’m glad you mentioned why Elfo and Bean doesn’t work while Fry and Leela does
Really nice review. I honestly think your review for this show is the most even I've seen from any reviews I've seen on UA-cam so far. I honestly think some of the other reviews I've seen focus way too much on the show's rocky start, and don't spend too much time talking about how the show gets much better in it's last few episodes. I thought the same thing with how a number of shows may start out rocky in their first seasons, and that's why I didn't get too impatient with the show's hit or miss first few episodes. I honestly think that from the sixth episode onward is when it starts to pick up. While the last three episodes are the better of this season, I still thought episodes 6 and 7 had a lot of interesting things in them. I'm also glad that we have a lot of Matt Groening alumni in the voice cast, with Tress MacNeille, John DiMaggio, Maurice LaMarche, Billy West, and David Herman all as main cast members. Though, it looks like David Herman is just going to be more of a utility player on this series like he was in Futurama. I really hope more Matt Groening alumni appear on the show at some point, like Dan Castellaneta, Frank Welker, Phil LaMarr, Nancy Cartwright, and Hank Azaria. Also, please let Rob Paulsen appear on the show. After failing to get on Futurama, Rob really deserves a break in getting to be in one of Matt Groening's shows. Overall, good review, and I am really anticipating what the show will dish out in the future. It has the potential to be another winner for Matt Groening.
I find that Jim's greatest strength is reviewing things on their own merits.
Yes, the creators and the context in which the came out is important.
But he generally treats it more as flavour that explains certain decisions instead.
Another example of that sort of rocky start to better show is happening with F is For Family, which had a weak first season but has been really picking up and working hard.
Elfo felt far creepier them what i hope they intended, which does make it hard to simpatize with him
I think they were trying too hard too quickly with that arc. He is such an idealistic, innocent sort of character that I'm guessing they thought it was going to come off as a childlike crush, but it doesn't. Episode 4 (the castle party) is probably the worst one in the entire run, just because Elfo is such an obnoxious jealous creep during the whole thing. I think the dynamic is played way better in the 7th episode (with the giant) because it is more silly and ridiculous, and Elfo actually gets a comeuppance and finally learns something.
While we were watching it, my friend Joe joked about ‘incElfo’, and while he *was* joking, it’s hard not to agree a little bit. Him having a crush on Bean is one thing; him basically throwing a tantrum when she has the AUDACITY (/s) to do something like sleep with a man who isn’t him was cringeworthy. I think the problem is that he’s initially set up as childlike and naïve, and trying to tease a romantic subplot between someone like that and someone like Bean (cynical and embittered) just feels wrong on almost every level. There doesn’t NEED to be a romantic subplot, now or ever. I like the show but the attempt at teasing an Elfo/Bean subplot just feels like a lazy, poorly-thought-out rehash of Fry and Leela.
I can’t appreciate your editing enough.
I didn’t realize you had covered Disenchantment! You echo a ton of the same sentiments I had about Part 1, great review
I enjoy the lingering shots. They remind me of Simpsons Season 1 and 2, still my favourite seasons ever.
Its a shame this series is getting panned at the moment, because while I thought the first few episodes definetly weren't that great, the show really picks up later on, and it left me wanting more by the end. I feel like it's just gonna take a few seasons for it to get to the level that The Simpsons or Futurama were during their peak. The first season or two of The Simpsons weren't exactly great either. We just need to give it time
It's not really getting panned. It's at about 58% on RT, which is a relatively average score.
"Panned" suggests a far worse reception.
I'm really glad you put out a video about your thoughts on the series, your opinion on anything related to Groening or Weinstein is worth its weight in gold
Mrgrgr You make me want to watch this show.
You should, it's good. Just be patait, the first few episodes are a little slow.
Was waiting for this, I liked it, bit lacking at times but still good, high hopes for part 2
Twice as many laughs second time around
Thanks for providing your take on the series so far! I was hoping to see some analysis and speculation on what the next chapter holds - but this is just a spoiler-free review after all. I want Itchy and Scratchy to get to that Fireworks Factory.
Weirdo doesn't drop his pants for nothing 😂
One of my favourite lines
I get some of the negativity but whatever, this show rocks. Enjoyed your review and I’m hoping it leads more fans to give the show a chance.
Glad you did a review on this. My personal thoughts were a bit harsher but also understanding. Looking forward to part 2, and season 2 of the show.
Finally! Its great to see an honest review that doesn't pander to the first 3 episodes rule, and just gives the facts! Thanks for your awesome honesty!
People who expected a Futurama-caliber 1st season were just kidding themselves. I really enjoyed it so far and I'm looking forward to season 2.
This is actually common mistake, but season 1 hasn´t officially ended, we are now waiting for it´s "Part 2".
Best review on UA-cam by a fortnight (heh heh). But seriously, couldn’t be more certain. The Herald is my favorite character because he delivers the jokes quick. Though, my favorite episode is Swamp and Circumstance because of Bean’s drunken antics. Like you said, Abby Jacobson did a spectacular job for Bean’s character. Also, you must realize that episodes for this show is 30 minutes, not 20 like Futurama or the Simpsons, so this opens more doors to show more stuff. Anyway, love ya man. See ya round
for all those people complaining about disenchantment I'll just say at least it's better then modern simpsons
That's a pretty low bar
The first 2 episodes really didn't grab me but you've inspired me to give it another go :)
Keep up the good work
I was hoping you'd make a video covering this show
Haven't seen it myself so I was waiting to see your point of view on it
Also, I would love to see you do videos on Futuram's lore and characters like you do for the Simpsons. I watch your Simpsons stuff, and I would absolutely watch the crap out of any Futurama stuff you did.
Futurama & King of the Hill please.
Spoilers, but I wanted to throw my two cents in. But also keep in mind that this is a show I'ved fully watched twice, and has, in my opinion, some of the most clever writing to come in recent years.
I feel like both Elfo and Bean have very big problems when it comes to their characters over the course of the series. Elfo especially has some problems, concerning how he is supposed to act. I find it weird with how often he flips between being a naive, happy go lucky elf, to suddenly being almost perverted in nature and actions.
Bean also has problems, mostly with how she is supposed to act. She is completely fine with cleaning up piles upon piles of dead bodies, killing a priest and other crimes, but stops when a seemingly insane witch, that by all accounts seemed guilty is presented for execution? That doesn't add up.
I agree with you, it picked up a lot of steam by the last 3 episodes that I am hooked for the next season. I'm glad they made it have a season-long story arch when I thought there wouldn't be any real focus after the first few episodes.
Thank you for this ive been wanting to watch this but was scared it wouldnt be as good as i hoped, but you seem to really enjoy so i imagine i would too
You mention Bojack, you should totally do Bojack analysis! I’d be so into that!
My favorite characters were the king and Bunty the maid.
Dat cliffhanger though
I had no plans at all to watch this, but I'm definitely going to check it out now.
Funnily enough, i quited watching this show after the 6th episode and then went back to watch this review as i didn't want to create preaccusations about the show before i even had watched it. Being told that the show picks up pretty much where i left off is kind of a funny coincidence.
Freaking love this show. Absolutely addicted , and it's so great the way it actually carries on a story
I feel like they're going for kind of a Good Omens thing with Elfo and Luci where they are influenced by human society to become more like eachother and by that more human. The innocent and easygoing Elfo is becoming more of a cynical jerk and the mischievous demon Luci is becoming more of a lovable softie. With Bean in the middle representing humankind by initially possessing all of these traits.
Also, I like how even the silliest of throw-away gags turns out to be relevant plot points much later in the series.
I really enjoyed both Disenchanted and your review of it! One question: what plot point were you talking about when you said that there was one reveal that turned around something you were going to complain about on you? I might be being thick, but I couldn’t figure it out. Anyway, thank you so much for your videos! I love watching them; you have a very soothing voice and make very cogent points when critiquing the plot, structure, etc. of the media you watch!!
Hey there, here's what I was referring to:
(spoilers below for people who haven't watched it)
I was referring to Elfo's name at that point in the review. I thought it was really annoying and uncreative that the writers named the elf character Elfo. Drove me up the wall during my initial watch... Was kind of wondering why everyone wasn't complaining about it. But the reveal makes it great! If you were trying to gloss over the fact your kid is only half-elf, of course you'd name him Elfo!
(I couldn't figure out how to describe that part of the review without totally ruining the twist for everyone, lol.)
Really liked the video, nice to see some positivity on that subject. Also, since you mentioned Gravity Falls will you ever make a video on that show (or other shows like that)?
I could do a random Gravity Falls review at some point. Ended up streaming it all a few months ago since it was pretty short and people said it was good. I thought it was a well-written show with a lot of funny dialogue and intrigue, but thought it lost some momentum in Season 2.
I'd love to see your review on that. Gravity Falls probably my favorite show now. Anyway, love your channel, keep making great content
i liked it enough to finish it. which says something, because i get bored in three seconds and change the movie. i have no attention span. but the art was good enough (not amazing, just good enough) and the characters likable enough, voice acting really top notch, to really get me invested enough to finish. i liked it. i'm curious what's going to happen next, and that's a great start.
Didn't expect this! Personally it got really good by the final three episodes, yet something up was with the action's animation that I can't decipher
TheRealJims, I've gotta ask, since you're a big Groening fan evidently---I am too---are you a Frank Zappa fan too?
I really like it and would echo much of what you've said about it. My concern is unrealistic expectations both from Netflix and the audience. The show is safe for season 2, because Netflix's commission on a two series contract, but many Netflix's comedy shows with a pre-built fandom (Wet Hot American Summer, Arrested Development) return for their second season with noticeably smaller budget and end up desperately trying to wrap everything up. If Netflix's expect this to be next Simpsons, I think they are gonna be disappointed. I'm 100% concerned the audience has unrealistic expectations, so many people only have gone in expecting season 4-9 of simpsons (or nostalgic but false memory of the Simpsons, that doesn't fit their modern animated comedy humour). So many online have slated the show and given up after the first episode.
Also "Hi, I'm Elfo" filled me with warm the more I heard it.
I'm hoping that having a big name like Matt Groening involved will give the series a slightly longer leash than others. At least a third set of 10 episodes, although I could see them begrudgingly giving him a full set of 20 because of the way animation costs scale. I bet Netflix wants to merchandise the show too.
I think the producers of the show miscalculated a little with the slow burn of the first season... I think they gambled on the nature of streaming that they could spread things out more, but didn't put together a strong enough opening hook to hold initial intrigue. Something like Stranger Things had a really big inciting incident (at least in Season 1) that hooked viewers in. I think Disenchantment's word of mouth improved a little when people discovered how good it finishes, it's just hard to get over that initial hump of disappointment press. I agree that expectations were just a little too high. I really think some of the perceived slowness is just the process of getting used to new characters, typical Season 1 hurdles.
I'm kind of nervous about Part 2 now. I really think the show is going in a good direction now, but it's very possible I will be disappointed. The next set of episodes will be critical.
I have been skeptical of this show, but I love your view on 'The Simpsons', so I will give it a shot.
i absolutely love the king's voice, it's so awful just hearing makes my throat hurt xD
I know, right!? Iconic voice actor, no one else could do "Bender" from Futurama better
I loved this show and i don't get all the hate for it. The laughing horse still gets me.
this show was class, was just a shame nothing interesting happened between episode 3 and 7. some decent jokes and enjoyable writing and characters, imo the narrative needs to be tightened and the world-building needs to continue.
TBH I don't mind that it started off a bit slowly because it really picked up pace as the season went on and they really paid things off as we approached the season finale. One of my favorite moments was the scene where Bean is swinging the axe to execute the witch from the forest. They were parodying a similar scene from game of thrones with the sombre music and the stylish slow mo and I was so drawn in by the mood created that the punchline caught me surprise when they revealed that it was actually in real time and that Bean was actually swinging the axe very slowly because she was very hesitant to be an executioner. In fact I really liked that episode as a whole, Noel Fielding was funny as the executioner with an extremely non threatening voice.
I hope disenchantment is picked up for a second season. I think the writers and show runners have a handle now on which aspects to emphasize to make season 2 even better than season 1.
But more than that I think the things I like the most about the show is that they've made an effort to make it more than just futurama but medieval. They have most of the voice talent from futurama but they're all doing supporting roles the 3 leads aren't from a previous Matt groening joint. This gives the show a certain freshness. Bean, Elfo and Luci have a similar dynamic to Leela, Fry and Bender but because the voice actors are different that similar character dynamic isn't on the nose. And I have to say that the difference in pacing suits the setting of the show much better than if they tried to pace it exactly like futurama. It helps the world it's set in to feel a bit more lived in, more like how things would feel in an age of swords and sorcery. And the adoption of a fully serialized storyline is a wise move by the show runners for this type of story. An episodic format would have made it impossible to pay things off and the events of each episode would feel kinda pointless if they reset completely by the end of the episode
As far as Disenchantment goes, it's actually pretty fast as far as jokes go, but it does a lot of small background gags. I love all the little details this show throws your way, as it lends itself to the binge watching format.
After this, I'd love to hear you're thoughts on The Critic.
For my part, I think that there were some good bits in there, but, like disenchantment, it suffered strange pacing that impacted its delivery.
For some reason, I could just never get into The Critic. I wanted to like it more but it never quite clicked for me. I think it got too repetitive with its jokes/plots about what a loser Jay is. There were a lot of really memorable characters, though.
My one problem is prince derek sometimes has 5 fingers but if other times he has 3 fingers
Saw the whole first season, and I'm excited for more!
For me the series was okay. While the first 7 episodes are decent the last three is where the series shines ... with its story. The jokes I feel are a little weak with the timing coming off as slow instead of the rapid fire we expect from Groenings other shows. That being said I will watch the next series since the series has my attention considering they end it on a cliffhanger. Hopefully they don't pull a Buckaroo Banzai on it.
Looking forward to your season 2 review
Soo ... Did you watch Bojack Horseman ?
Yep, great show. Would like to do a video on it some time, but there are already so many good Bojack essays on UA-cam
TheRealJims I agree but I think yours would be much better ;)
8:49-9:07 the same can be said about SpongeBob SquarePants, Adventure Time, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic and The Amazing World of Gumball
You make good content sir, I enjoy it
My only problem with the show is that it is oddly quiet. In places where there should be music or general sound effects, it’s just empty. I haven’t seen the second part yet though so it may have changed.
Loved the review, it literally made me want to watch it all over again, it had a lot of funny times and I loved the characters so far, usually I am not able to watch something like this but I was actually hooked after the first episode. Many parts of it made me laugh, some parts made me shrug or yawn.. but all in all the series kept me hanging in until the end, now I wait for the new episodes that are coming in 2019... some time...
The annoying thing with elfo is that the moment he left elf land, it was like his personality swapped. He went from the playboy in elf land into the goofball that we are supposed to root for as the underdog to get the girl out of his league.
but totally agree, the story had me plodding along thinking "I'm watching season 1 for the sake of it", then I got to the end of it and was like "I. WANT. MORE!!! MORE I SAY!!!!!!!"
I like the show a lot, but I find there’s too much futurama and it can get in the way of the enjoyment sometimes
More pauses doesn'T mean more build-up, it means that the writers need padding in oder to get as much episodes as possible with as less wrinting as possible.
Simpsons Histories - Screamapillar
Is Pixar Perfect 1 and 2 coming out after this?
nice i think ill watch this show, sometime in the future
Hey, would you ever consider reviewing BoJack or other cartoons? Maybe Home Movies or Venture Bros.?
The Real Jim's, I've heard about this series from friends that Love The Simpson's like myself & they've recommended it. Since you've analyzed the this (part 1) of this series I'll try to stream from a friend's Netflix. Sadden That Simpson's is no longer what it once was, relevant & apart of the Decade, happy Groening is sorta moving on. Obvious he lost interest in it years ago & has since been collecting checks from Fox. The series should've ended at season 9/10, the episode with Homer's reunion & lost of his Mother where he looks out at the Stars should've been saved for the Series Finale 😭. What a way to wrap Homer's journey a bafoon yes, but a flawed loving Man (Father). Would love to see the same dedication to The Simpson's applied to Futurama & King of the Hill, probably not as much as The Simpson's you're only human. Just my 2 (measly) cents. You have the best Simpson's content, & what a majestic voice. 🍻 hombre.
I agree with all of it and I thought the show was nice. Also yes please more Prince Derek, he's so tragic and adorable
Thank you for giving it a chance.
I thought episodes 6 and 7 were a bit better than the previous episodes but not better than the final 3 episodes
Honestly I loved this show. I love Elfo so much! The only thing I didn’t really like was that Lucy to me feels like a chiller version of bender they make a lot of the same types of jokes but I think I like Lucy more than bender.
100% agree on everything. Even Elfo!
I liked this show and was really funny, but I think the main plot could've had more focus throughout the season and a bit more drama the way Final Space has. Completely different shows I know, but I can't help the comparison since I watched them back to back
I love it so far. It has just a good atmosphere. I love Simpsons (older) and I am not so big fan of futurama. This just works for me.
2:39 bottom right, Enders game reference? Haven’t seen it yet someone let me know.
Futurama season 1 was the best season
I can't wait for more
Well it has potential and it's a bit different than Simpson and it's inconsistent than Simpson, I don't know that a bad thing.
I saw one review for this show when the first season came out, the reviewer admitted it was a bit disappointed by the end result, that they couldn't decide what they were parodying, and how they were trying to be deconstructive with a lot of Game of Thrones theming, even though Game of Thrones already was a deconstruction. I did see the first few episodes of the show eventually, they were... okay. There were moments where I felt like they skipped a beat, like there was meant to be dialogue there but for some reason there wasn't. It was kind of odd. Haven't gotten back to the show since, maybe it's gotten better, who knows.
need part 2 out
Are you gonna do a second part?
Yep, probably in the next week or two. I'm running behind
@@TheRealJims great
What was the ending song to this video ?
"Dialima tu Kafé", it's an Earthbound remix
ua-cam.com/video/u_mVLbeaPkk/v-deo.html
He is right, it gets really intense by the end of season finale.
The first season felt odd compared to the rest of the series. A lot of the humor was very obscure, limiting itself to theater geeks, literature majors, and history buffs. It felt like it was trying to prove itself. Post premiere seasons feel more accessible and I think it was very good the show was renewed.
nice review good job
Most memorable quote, has stuck with me since watching the season only once:
*"I'M DROWNING!!"*
"I'm Elfo! :)"
I hope the writers do get their groove for serialization soon. Though doesn't the mom queen look just like Moon Butterfly? Also Matt Groening can't write well, he got lucky with better writers like Gene Roddenberry and Mike & Bryan of Airbender.
Seems i will have to revisit it then, watched the first episode and didnt feel like watching further at the end of it
That ending tho
This show is a slow burn, and does have a few clunky parts here and there...however, it was much better then I thought, like on par with Futurama. Plus I did like the character Bean. Though I’ll admit one of my gripes is how it ends, I hope it gets a second season.
...there's not gonna be a part 2, is there?
I'll do a second video covering "Part 2" when Netflix releases it, but this video is just covering the first mini-season they released. It's kind of confusing that they named it "Parts" instead of "Seasons" because it makes it look like this review is incomplete.
idk, more than 4 episodes that are not great in a row? tbh I'll watch the last episodes and see if for me has that punch to keep me interested.
I do not know why every body hates it because it looks similar to Futurama. It is not Simpsons heartwarming or Futurama funny but I see potential for an epic adventure hope they do not disappoint in season 2.
What ever they do they must make sure they don't change luci I love his character most show do that like family Guy they changed Stewie from being an evil genius to whatever he is now
Do Jurassic bark in the future please
1:57.
Was that pun deliberate?
Oh wow really? I didn’t expect this.
I saw only the first episode..I liked it.. but not enough to watch other episodes.. even if it pick up later