John from Cincinnati

:

Season 1
  • Network: HBO
  • Series Premiere Date: Jun 10, 2007
User Score
7.4

Generally favorable reviews- based on 254 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 190 out of 254
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 254
  3. Negative: 57 out of 254
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User Reviews

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  1. EdT
    Jul 30, 2007
    10
    TV does not get any better than this. Those giving a zero rating probably watch CSI 3 times a week!
  2. ArloP.
    Aug 13, 2007
    10
    The best show on TV. It fills a very needed gap in the standard line up. I have watched each episode at least 6 times. Without ths show I would stop my HBO service.
  3. TD
    Aug 1, 2007
    10
    I am hooked! It seems to me that the people who will not like this show are the ones who are not able to put the very small details together to form the story. You have to work to find the answers for the questions they raise, but that's what gets me hooked to a show. The writing is a 10. The character development is a 10. The environments are a 10. Just a great show once you get to I am hooked! It seems to me that the people who will not like this show are the ones who are not able to put the very small details together to form the story. You have to work to find the answers for the questions they raise, but that's what gets me hooked to a show. The writing is a 10. The character development is a 10. The environments are a 10. Just a great show once you get to the core of the story.… Expand
  4. dirkR.
    Aug 6, 2007
    10
    I love this existentialist crock pot. Convoluted plotlines, unnatural dialogue, the lot. The surfing ethos pervades this show, at points it builds to the sublime. Oh, and Johnny Appleseed (theme music) is a fantastic match for the show.
  5. KurtW
    Jul 30, 2007
    10
    A fascinating show. I dare anyone to watch John's speech in the Motel Court Yard (Episode 6) and not be hooked. For those who are dismissive, check out the insightful fan discussion of the show at: http://www.thesnugharbormotel.com/index.php There are many fansites, but this one has the best and most active fan base interaction, all of which nly makes the viewing experience so much A fascinating show. I dare anyone to watch John's speech in the Motel Court Yard (Episode 6) and not be hooked. For those who are dismissive, check out the insightful fan discussion of the show at: http://www.thesnugharbormotel.com/index.php There are many fansites, but this one has the best and most active fan base interaction, all of which nly makes the viewing experience so much more addictive. Give JFC it's due...it is only hated because it has to fill the Sopranos' shoes and then after a crappy finale. That's a tough chore...give it a chance because the show is fabulous.… Expand
  6. JulienC
    Jul 30, 2007
    9
    It's interesting to read these comments. People either hate it or love it. Personally, I grew up in a beach town in Southern California so it rings a bell. I love this show. The plot and characters are captivating and raw. It's addictive.
  7. KN.
    Aug 13, 2007
    10
    Simply the best show ive seen on HBO for a long while. You will only fully appreciate the show if you follow the series. The entire series sucks you into a world with vivid characters and a very powerful religious tie in. I am still trying to figure out johns statements and how they relate to the basic story involving the coming together of the cast. I do look forward to the second Simply the best show ive seen on HBO for a long while. You will only fully appreciate the show if you follow the series. The entire series sucks you into a world with vivid characters and a very powerful religious tie in. I am still trying to figure out johns statements and how they relate to the basic story involving the coming together of the cast. I do look forward to the second season! If you dont like to think this show isnt for you.… Expand
  8. MaryD.
    Aug 13, 2007
    10
    any show that can evoke so much emotion during a 1-hour time slot is genius. People who dont like it are afraid to stretch thier brains imaginations.
  9. SteveJ.
    Aug 14, 2007
    10
    This show does exactly what it's supposed to do, leave me guessing and wanting more!
  10. EdwardP
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    Best show I've ever seen. love the story and characters and especially the mystery. I t doesn't treat the viewer like a moron having to explain what is happening. Probably ahead of it's time but hopefully it will stick around.
  11. lMC
    Aug 6, 2007
    10
    Thought Provoking, classic milch elevated diction dialogue that makes me laugh or knit my brow. Yes infuriatingly confusing, but that's a nice change from who is going to get whacked this week.
  12. TimR
    Aug 7, 2007
    10
    I find the show very entertaining and thought provoking. I look forward to it every week. Great job.
  13. ThomL
    Jul 26, 2007
    9
    The more I watch the more I like it. I have a DVR so I have watched most episodes several times. I think if you like LOST you should be here too, but I notice that I'm the only one in my household who likes it.
  14. BobN
    Jul 31, 2007
    10
    I was the biggest Sopranos fan and was very upset it was over, until I started watching JFC. This is the most creative, deep, but also very entertaining show I have ever watched on TV. Great job!
  15. GlennR
    Aug 13, 2007
    10
    Great show. I only wish the critics were a bit more hip. Good shows like this don't seem to last very long in this country...most folks don't enjoy using their brians, especially while being entertained. I'll keep my fingers crossed for JFC.
  16. MikeB.
    Aug 14, 2007
    10
    Are you people crazy this is the most innovative program ever. Who cares if we understand it . It leaves it open to everyone imagination. I will cancel my HBO if you cancel john. We are hooke please give iot one more season before you give up on it. Please Please Please.
  17. richardg
    Aug 17, 2007
    10
    love the show, know lots of others complain about the pace, but i actually like the meandering. the character interaction is fun, and the slow paced early revelations with the quicker revelations towards the end (though understandably tough for some to stomach) was worth the investment of my time.
  18. martinc.
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    revelatory and exeptional, and, of course, now cancelled.
  19. Teds.
    Aug 24, 2007
    10
    the show is awesome,PERIOD. We need a little out of the norm in relief of the daily grind.
  20. AlexO
    Aug 7, 2007
    9
    Aasuming the story sucks, this gets a 7 out of the gate for it's originality and courage.
  21. LisaB
    Sep 4, 2007
    10
    I loved it and so did all my friends. It draws you to think which is uncomfortable for people who like things in a nice neat box.
  22. StefanV
    Jul 21, 2007
    9
    Absolutely brilliant. This show will go over many heads. Many will say, "Huh?" But it is a metaphysical wonderland - full of interesting ideas. But the best is the box of chocolate characters. Strong. Quirky. Developing. Almost like Noah brought together his animials - and instead of an Arc - ended up at a motel parking lot. I am so looking forward to this show every week! Rock on dudes!
  23. MikeC
    Jul 22, 2007
    10
    Best show ever on HBO! For those who prefer to think instead of being spoon fed, this show is fantastic!. Amazing! July 23, 2007
  24. RickB
    Jul 23, 2007
    10
    JFC is unlike anything else on HBO, much less on network television. The characters are rich and the writing is mesmerizing. My appreciation with the work of Milch and company grows deeper each week. If you're looking for something formulaic with a linear plot line and stock characters, a la the much heralded 24, then look elsewhere. But if you're willing to spend the time and JFC is unlike anything else on HBO, much less on network television. The characters are rich and the writing is mesmerizing. My appreciation with the work of Milch and company grows deeper each week. If you're looking for something formulaic with a linear plot line and stock characters, a la the much heralded 24, then look elsewhere. But if you're willing to spend the time and attention this show demands, and you're willing to let the show wash over you with each repeated viewing yielding more depth of enjoyment, you will not be disappointed. If you're looking for a show about surfing, go watch Endless Summer. This is something else entirely. If you get lost, check out the posts on HBO.com. Much insight there. In summary, I love this show for how it makes me feel, and I'm hard pressed to tell you exactally why. Watch it. You will not be disappointed. Enjoy!… Expand
  25. HIM
    Jul 31, 2007
    10
    Intellectually challenging and quite a refreshing change from Pavlovic shows such as "Grey's Anatomy"
  26. jonh
    Aug 13, 2007
    10
    best show on tv. if you are stupid, you won't like it.
  27. SharonR.
    Aug 14, 2007
    10
    I love this show. I like the fact that they have not given up what is going on. every monday me and my 3 grown kids watch together, even my 4 year old grandson loves the surfing scenes. I love everything about the show, because i am not sure what going on my mind is thinking up all sorts of ideas. Please give me back John, and the whole rest of the gang. Please Please give another season.
  28. BrandyC.
    Aug 14, 2007
    10
    absolutely wonderful show Im going to put this page as a myspace bulletin so everyone i know can vote for it as a 10
  29. BarryT
    Aug 26, 2007
    10
    10++++ I LOVE thisshow! Quirky, strange, mesmerizing, with the richest cast of characters, wonderful subplots--and the big question. I couldn't wait until the next show, then the next season. I watched each episode on On Demand at least twice to pick up all the subtleties. Now I just found out HBO cancelled it. HBO, PLEASE reconsider! Please put John fro Cincinnati back on the air.
  30. JennetP
    Jan 25, 2012
    10
    No description of this series makes it sound at all appealing. In fact, despite my enthusiasm for surfing, Zen, and Garrett Dillahunt, I didn't watch it until last year, not just because of the bad reviews, but because even the good ones made "John from Cincinnati" sound about as alluring as listening to Cyndi Lauper read the Manhattan Phone Directory through a bullhorn while Dick CheneyNo description of this series makes it sound at all appealing. In fact, despite my enthusiasm for surfing, Zen, and Garrett Dillahunt, I didn't watch it until last year, not just because of the bad reviews, but because even the good ones made "John from Cincinnati" sound about as alluring as listening to Cyndi Lauper read the Manhattan Phone Directory through a bullhorn while Dick Cheney cleaned my teeth with a hunting rifle. And I'm not the only viewer the series failed to attract. Recently, I read that less than a quarter of the audience who watched the finale of "The Sopranos" stuck around to check out "John." In other words, the show never had a chance. And that was a shame of the first order, because "John" turns out to be one of the most original, profound, and moving series I've ever seen. Not only is there nothing like it, there's nothing even close enough to allow a cautious, qualified comparison--a descriptive comparison, that is. Even a non-descriptive comparison is hard. I could think for hours and then finally stammer, "John from Cincinnati" is to "Deadwood" as "The Tempest" is to "1 Henry IV," but,despite struggling to find the most apt analogy possible, all I have done is tell you "It's really different" and "It's really good." So, though I normally condemn unsubstantiated value judgments, I think it's essential to make one here, because anything I could say is as likely to make you shun "John from Cincinnati" as to make you want to watch it. If you think I'm just being lazy, look at some of my other reviews; all I'm trying to avoid is turning another potential viewer OFF. I will qualify my approbation a bit, however. "John" is not a show for fools, nor for people who just want to power down their brains after work and settle into a stupor. I'm not saying that the series requires effort to watch--it doesn't--but it will stimulate brains that are not already dead, and the questions it will raise are exciting. So viewers who mind being stimulated, mentally, should probably choose another series. "John" is also not a show for rigid people. If, for you, rules and categories and formulae are ends in themselves (rather than means of achieving certain ends), you will not like this series, as it consistently breaks generic and other boundaries. If characters must adhere to familiar types; if, for you, mothers must be nurturing and children lovable and junkies loathsome and surfers moronic and avatars eloquent, then, no, you will not like this series. If, however, you have an open, active mind and your sympathies extend to people unlike yourself and you've occasionally asked a question or two about what it might mean to be human and, most importantly, you really enjoy seeing something you've never seen before, especially if it's beautiful, then check out "John from Cincinnati." I have a feeling that your great-great grandchildren will be proud to tell their friends that you were among the very few who realized way back in 2012 that this series was a classic.… Expand
  31. BrianF.
    Jul 11, 2007
    9
    grows on you as you watch each new episode
  32. RachelC
    Jul 1, 2007
    10
    This is my favorite new show of the season, perhaps of the year. It doesn't even occur to me that there is supposed bad acting or that some of the shows stars are surfers and not actors at all. Each person brings something special, and you begin to realize that this is a story about a rather large, extremely dysfunctional family. "John" brings comic relief to the show, but also This is my favorite new show of the season, perhaps of the year. It doesn't even occur to me that there is supposed bad acting or that some of the shows stars are surfers and not actors at all. Each person brings something special, and you begin to realize that this is a story about a rather large, extremely dysfunctional family. "John" brings comic relief to the show, but also offers the perfect amount of hope to the situations this family faces. Bottom line is, I'm captivated! That's all there is to say.… Expand
  33. TenleyN.
    Jul 3, 2007
    10
    It's about time for a "television" (it's not tv, it's HBO), to come up with something that makes us pay attention and use our noggins. Leave it to Milch to come up with a cast of indelible characters, poke fun at us and make us ponder something other than ourselves (which is just about all the character Mitch does!). Looking forward to more; every detail matters here, so It's about time for a "television" (it's not tv, it's HBO), to come up with something that makes us pay attention and use our noggins. Leave it to Milch to come up with a cast of indelible characters, poke fun at us and make us ponder something other than ourselves (which is just about all the character Mitch does!). Looking forward to more; every detail matters here, so pay attention.… Expand
  34. jimj.
    Jul 3, 2007
    8
    Thanks again HBO for giving us another quality show! very few networks..with he exception of Showtime, HBO and FX give us television that makes you think. The show has lots of different angles and characters to be developed.. I love the show and how Milch and his team can tear apart and rebuild characters like few others...Keep up the Great work!
  35. Judy
    Aug 20, 2007
    10
    I really hope this show continues. Despite the degenerate society portrayied there were some signs of the basic goddness of humanity shining forth. More please!
  36. JeffB
    Jun 10, 2007
    8
    It is a very fun, interesting show. Nothing exactly happened in the first show, but it's already more original than half of what's out there.
  37. RickJ
    Jun 10, 2007
    10
    Wonderful. Way to go Milch. Look forward to many more.
  38. jordon
    Jun 10, 2007
    8
    Confounding but intriguing plotline. But most important, after one episode, I think I can grow to love these characters.
  39. glens
    Jun 13, 2007
    9
    A lot of my high review comes from the large amount of faith I have in David Milch from his work on Deadwood. The dialog is just as fantastic as Deadwood, and the characters are compelling. The faith only plays a role in that it allows me to believe the series is going to go somewhere, and have some kind of message. Of course, so far I've only seen episode one, but I found it highly A lot of my high review comes from the large amount of faith I have in David Milch from his work on Deadwood. The dialog is just as fantastic as Deadwood, and the characters are compelling. The faith only plays a role in that it allows me to believe the series is going to go somewhere, and have some kind of message. Of course, so far I've only seen episode one, but I found it highly entertaining (watched it twice in fact), if a bit hard to follow at times. But it seems hard to follow only because of a certain depth and complexity, not because it lacks a plot or cohesion.… Expand
  40. JohnF.
    Jun 27, 2007
    10
    I love the series so far. Totally weird. Really dig the music too. Especially tha rare Muse track, the blues and Kava Kava 'Tic' when Shauni waits in the tent
  41. Cheryl
    Jul 3, 2007
    10
    I love this program. It's original and full of strange characters. I can't wait for Sundays so I can see a new episode.
  42. RachelV
    Jul 6, 2007
    10
    I love it! I ordered HBO just for this show.
  43. barbarak.
    Aug 16, 2007
    10
    Seeing HBO cancelled the best show on tv my comment is futile how dare they cancel John from cincinnati..read the reviews and not surprised the Boston Globe & the Christian Science Monator didn't GET John..they have no imagination in any of their writings.
  44. conorm
    Sep 5, 2007
    10
    i thought this show was so incredible and it was one of the few shows out there where you just waited for the next episode.its an awesome show, bring it back!
  45. PattiG
    Jun 14, 2007
    9
    There is something that is so precious about this show that makes one smile, but it draws the line at being too sappy. Long live the new HBO series!!
  46. Julia
    Jun 22, 2007
    10
    This is the type of show that you have to watch more than once to appreciate. I can see how that might turn some people off. TV has traditionally been instant gratification, no thought needed fare. If you are looking for something a little more hearty to sink your teeth inyo this summer, give JFC a chance. At the very least, you won't regret watching Greyson Fletcher (Shaun) surf.
  47. TomM
    Jun 26, 2007
    10
    I can't quite explain why, but this damn show has captivated me somehow. I enjoyed The Sopranos, but if I missed an episode or two, it really didn't matter. But with JFC, I find myself waiting for the next show no sooner than the last one ended. It's got enough bizaare characters to fill an insane asylum, enough mystery to re-write Edgar Allan Poe, and an edge of mysticism I can't quite explain why, but this damn show has captivated me somehow. I enjoyed The Sopranos, but if I missed an episode or two, it really didn't matter. But with JFC, I find myself waiting for the next show no sooner than the last one ended. It's got enough bizaare characters to fill an insane asylum, enough mystery to re-write Edgar Allan Poe, and an edge of mysticism to top it all off. After three episodes I'm getting vibes that John is some sort of new age profit, and that Saun Yost is probably something like the second coming of Christ. I'm expecting to see hordes of devotees following Saun all over the coast of California seeking miracles and Truth before it's all done, but we shall see. Is it Sunday yet?… Expand
  48. franckJ
    Jun 26, 2007
    9
    This is a weird show but in a good way, there are a mix of drama, comedy,fiction.
  49. PynchonT.
    Jun 28, 2007
    10
    Milch, it seems to me, is presenting a series about revelation - and,for this reason, "professional" critics cannot figure it out. He places this tale of revelation in the most secular of venues - the surfers and beachbums of SoCal. John, "of Cincinnati," like John the Baptist, is not the prophet himself but the presage of the prophet. The prophet is the youngest Yost surfer. After all, Milch, it seems to me, is presenting a series about revelation - and,for this reason, "professional" critics cannot figure it out. He places this tale of revelation in the most secular of venues - the surfers and beachbums of SoCal. John, "of Cincinnati," like John the Baptist, is not the prophet himself but the presage of the prophet. The prophet is the youngest Yost surfer. After all, EVERYONE else in the cast is increasingly dedicating their lives to protecting the boy. They don't talk about protecting him, they just do it. They don't know why, but they can't resist. Revelation. Moreover, ALL of the Yost males and even some of the protectors (including the once-drug-dealer) are experiencing "paranormal" phenomena, and the physician is already mystified.… Expand
  50. JimG
    Jun 29, 2007
    9
    I LOVE this show. It's quirky, keeps me guessing as what'll happen next, has memorable lines, good editing to keep all the plots in line... overall a great show, if you just let it flow through your head. John is a fascinating character that doesn't dominate the story, yet keeps you entertained whenever he appears in the show. Really hope it's not canceled because some I LOVE this show. It's quirky, keeps me guessing as what'll happen next, has memorable lines, good editing to keep all the plots in line... overall a great show, if you just let it flow through your head. John is a fascinating character that doesn't dominate the story, yet keeps you entertained whenever he appears in the show. Really hope it's not canceled because some folks don't like the new flavor of this type of show. It is my new favorite show & can hardly wait for Sunday nights... even if it means Monday morning is next.… Expand
  51. JohnM.
    Jun 30, 2007
    10
    "Somthings I know, somthings I don't" "The end is near" For those who have not spent the time, this show is not to be missed. JM
  52. ZigZigy
    Jun 30, 2007
    10
    The most interesting show out there right now: it's got me totally roped inand hanging on to see what develops next. It is a wonderfully imaginative series with enagaging albeit flawed characters, visible to viewers warts and all, and you get a sense that things are going to get better for everyone involved.
  53. KimboS.
    Jul 11, 2007
    9
    Most unique show I have seen in a long time. Characters seem really fresh and of course mysterious. You have never seen a show like this. I really hope the storyline develops and delivers. "I've got my eye on you"
  54. JasonB
    Jul 1, 2007
    9
    Thank God for this show. It's so necessary, and overdue. For those who don't get it, you're better off sticking to Myth Busters. But then, to each their own. . .
  55. RyanB.
    Jul 17, 2007
    10
    This show is amazing. It the best thing that HBO has done in a while.
  56. FrankS
    Jul 19, 2007
    8
    I love querky. Is John an agel, devil, alien or an escaped experiement from a government lab. I don't know and really as long as they keep me feeling like I am exploring a new slightly out of reach parallel universe, I will watch. Want do you want Butchy? More JFC, of course.
  57. ScottJ
    Jul 10, 2007
    10
    "John from Cincinnati" is wonderful show. Ed O'Neill steals the show with a great performance as the lonely OCD Bill.
  58. IsaiahA.
    Jul 2, 2007
    9
    Most of the people giving this show les han a seven re probably people who hate think when watch TV. They probably think TV is to make you mindless. Though JFC is a fresh of breath air to me! There is finally a show that dosn't show the veiwer everything and make the characters no nothing. We are just as clueless if not more clueless than chacters. You wonder who and what this person Most of the people giving this show les han a seven re probably people who hate think when watch TV. They probably think TV is to make you mindless. Though JFC is a fresh of breath air to me! There is finally a show that dosn't show the veiwer everything and make the characters no nothing. We are just as clueless if not more clueless than chacters. You wonder who and what this person John is what he wants and what else can you do besides making things popout his pockets and make people see visions of things. And if your one of those who love to think you probably ike to predict too. My guess is John is an Angel and the Yosts have a connection to god some how. Though I have my complaints the actors that portray Saun and Kye pay the role out. Though Suan racemay have a shyness problem or something. Kye has no excuse for bad acting.… Expand
  59. KathyW.
    Jul 2, 2007
    9
    The ONLY change I would make is to make the dialog clearer - easier to understand. The mumbling may be realistic acting but it doesn't help to understand what is going on in the episode. But even with this flaw, the story is provocitave and the multilayered characters are such a treat. Thanks HBO.
  60. Alex
    Jul 2, 2007
    10
    This show is easily one of the most intelligent and forward thinking programs. Those who dont appreciate it fail to think outside the box. John From Cincinnati takes it to the next level!
  61. emilyb
    Jul 22, 2007
    10
    Just keeps getting better and I still don't understand it.
  62. OnC.
    Jul 3, 2007
    10
    "John From Cincinnati" I think is the strangest, most funny show ever produced for American TV. I'm really not into surfing either. This show has some great characters from all walks of life.
  63. KarenR.
    Jul 3, 2007
    10
    Odd but very entertaining show...will definitely continue to watch.
  64. gloriac
    Jul 30, 2007
    10
    Captivating and wonderful on every level...finally, something worth watching!
  65. AC.
    Jul 3, 2007
    8
    For what this show lacks in exposition, it duly compensates with intrigue. Very well casted except the character "Shawnie" (the kid looks great but his acting is anemic). I give the show a strong 8 rating despite the fact that for all of the show's plucky dialogue and charming array of characters, each episode lacks enough payoff to the vague plot to capture the casual view. My guess For what this show lacks in exposition, it duly compensates with intrigue. Very well casted except the character "Shawnie" (the kid looks great but his acting is anemic). I give the show a strong 8 rating despite the fact that for all of the show's plucky dialogue and charming array of characters, each episode lacks enough payoff to the vague plot to capture the casual view. My guess is that if the writers don't start to reel components of this story in really soon and offer a couple of major twists to maintain a buzz, this show will be deader than Deadwood before the fall season. Still, I must admit I'm firmly captivated and I must know what eventually happens to Butchie, Mitch, Sissy, Kai, Bill, Link and John!… Expand
  66. tomk.
    Jul 4, 2007
    10
    As a surfer living in Imperial Beach, where series is filmed, it captures much of the culture here. Bunch of burned out folks that still respect the ocean and all it gives. No, I have not seen John yet, but I am watching for him our at the pier.
  67. ArthurF.
    Jul 5, 2007
    8
    Brilliant quirky touching
  68. JoanG
    Jul 5, 2007
    9
    Very enjoyable. Quirky, mystical, thought-provoking, Good writing. I look forward to future episodes.
  69. TedJ
    Aug 10, 2007
    9
    Lots of mysterious fun. The cast is hilarious! I was a huge Deadwood fan, and love JFC as well--I don't know what other Deadwood fans are complaining about--it's a *different* show; get it?
  70. MichaelM.
    Aug 1, 2007
    10
    Great show
  71. John
    Aug 9, 2007
    10
    Insane, witty, and vulgar. I have never loved a show more when I have no clue of what's happening.
  72. GA.
    Oct 30, 2007
    9
    Hbo is killing me with the canceling of my favotite shows. This show rocked. You never knew what was coming & I loved it for that reason. Who wants some cookie cutter script with all the answers given 2 you @ the end?
  73. mitchl
    Jun 11, 2007
    9
    this show as awesome finally something to set the tivo to. smart tv
  74. BobP
    Jun 11, 2007
    8
    wacky, offbeat, right up my alley so far!
  75. halb
    Jun 12, 2007
    7
    An interesting premier. The show has definite potential. The character of John reminds me a bit of Peter Sellers' "Chancy" in the film "Being There". Or perhaps Woody Allen's "Zelig"...?
  76. QuispL
    Jun 13, 2007
    10
    I f@*#'n loved it!
  77. WillH
    Jun 13, 2007
    8
    I thought it was really funny. I wasn't expecting that.
  78. LINDAH
    Jun 14, 2007
    8
    Thie show was differant from anything I had ever seen before. Just how many times did they use the F word.? After watching the show I want to visit/or move to Imperial Beach.
  79. SteveD
    Jun 14, 2007
    7
    Obviously a show like this can't be judged properly on one ep. But it had a pleasantly distant, distracted atmosphere and characters I want to learn more about. Maybe it'll turn out to meander pointlessly in an endlessly pretentious manner but Milch being a genius an' all, I'd bet he'll bring along the ideas to back up the vague mysticism this episode hinted at.
  80. GaryM.
    Jun 15, 2007
    9
    This is an unconventional TV show, which is most definitely a good thing. I'm bound to follow it till its end, whether it be the series finale in the far away future (hopefully) or the show's cancellation which happened much too soon. Let's hope people who will watch it will give it a chance.
  81. LouisS
    Jun 15, 2007
    8
    Very interesting characters, but some actors are not yet fully grounded (pun intended). Similar to Milch's other work, a large cast character driven drama, but with a background that seems less interesting than the old west or the NYPD. Worth watching for a few weeks though, to see where it goes.
  82. ValA
    Jun 16, 2007
    10
    this series is going to continue to build like a game 7 of a world series, goodbye sopranos , Hello John. A home run.
  83. [Anonymous]
    Jun 16, 2007
    10
    Loved the soundtrack to this show
  84. jonathanle
    Jun 17, 2007
    9
    Some deadwood dialogue awesomness in a modern surfer town setting with an interesting character reminescent of David Lynch's typical players. Hard show to pin down but great sof ar.
  85. kittyO
    Jun 18, 2007
    9
    I loved this series (so far). Yes, it is challenging; and no, I don't understand everything (yet). But I am totally fascinated by the David Lynch (but more modern) style of film. I can't wait for the next episode. I would like to have both Deadwood and John playing...but I really like this new addition.
  86. JohnB
    Jun 20, 2007
    10
    Outstanding. Fine acting and fascinating plot - never dull with Milch.
  87. danh
    Jun 24, 2007
    9
    Those that dont get it, probably dont get a whole lot! My girlfriend and I are completely hooked
  88. Sonya
    Jun 26, 2007
    8
    The dialogue is brilliant as usual. The show pulls you in - you want to see what happens next. I'll keep watching
  89. jamess.
    Jun 28, 2007
    10
    I find it interesting how negative so many respones have been to john from cincinnati.Often times such visceral reactions are just that....reactions.A chord is being struck that makes the viewer uncomfortable.Personally I feel the show is revelatory,brave and cutting edge story telling. I care about these people already.My feeling is that people are uncomfortable with the esoteric quasi I find it interesting how negative so many respones have been to john from cincinnati.Often times such visceral reactions are just that....reactions.A chord is being struck that makes the viewer uncomfortable.Personally I feel the show is revelatory,brave and cutting edge story telling. I care about these people already.My feeling is that people are uncomfortable with the esoteric quasi spiritual themes that are suggeste but not elucidated.There is a powerful river of hope surging under the floorboards of the dsfunctional yost household. Milch seems to be intimating a larger more compasionate world that is avalable somewhere in the detritus of syringes on the beach and burned out misfits from forgotten eras.All this told through an hilarious lens of contemporary shakespearean characters.This show moves me,it feels brave and right and true so far.Milch has set the bar very high in my eyes,high enough to risk looking foolish or sentimental,that effort alone is worth a serious look at this story.… Expand
  90. JeffG.
    Jun 28, 2007
    9
    This is a thinking man's show. Like any truly seminal work, it often takes time for the palette to adjust. Ignore the hyperbole of the under-educated; if you like to think, question your beliefs, and be challenged by your entertainment this is for you. If you like plot lines to be resolved every 30 minutes, or think the only good Sopranos episodes have killing in them, you may want to pass.
  91. CurtisW.
    Jun 29, 2007
    9
    Early in the game but I'm along for the ride.
  92. AaronW.
    Jul 10, 2007
    8
    Very strange but definitely intriguing. While the character development is great, I wish the plot would move forward a little more quickly so we can find out what the shows really is about.
  93. stevek.
    Jul 1, 2007
    9
    I really think the critics missed the mark on this one! This is some of the most unique television I have ever seen! I cant wait to see what's next... extremely smart dialog! It seems to me its a natural progression from deadwood and that maybe Milch's work is evolving... WELL DONE!
  94. johns.
    Jul 14, 2007
    10
    I love it, im tired of people comparing the Sopranos to it, the Sopranos is over...let it go already.
  95. KevinF
    Jul 16, 2007
    10
    Great show! Very Original!
  96. josh
    Jul 18, 2007
    10
    it is the best, and most clever show i've seen on TV.. i'm hooked.
  97. DonaldA
    Jul 19, 2007
    10
    The show is fantastic! It's complex and effective; I think the NYT reviewer missed the point -- shocking.
  98. VeraB
    Jul 21, 2007
    10
    I just was lucky enough to catch it the 1st show and I've watched everyone of them 3 or 4 times each. They are GREAT! The show itself is interestibg, addicting and ful of on-going questions.
  99. BobE.
    Jul 2, 2007
    10
    My wife and I love it! I wonder if there is a connection between John - Jesus and Cincinnati - Christ? I can understand why some folks are so vehemently against the show. Thank you, HBO!
  100. THeresaL.
    Jul 2, 2007
    8
    It is a thought provoking and interesting piece of television.
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Awards & Rankings

70
#70 Best TV Season of 2007
4
#4 Most Discussed TV Season of 2007
25
#25 Most Shared TV Season of 2007

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
50

Mixed or average reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 24
  3. Negative: 7 out of 24
  1. Chicago Tribune
    Reviewed by: Maureen Ryan
    50
    It's only June,? but I can confidently state that you won’t see a weirder show than "John From Cincinnati" all year long.
    Read full review
  2. The Hollywood Reporter
    Reviewed by: Barry Garron
    50
    Intriguing but not entirely satisfying.
    Read full review
  3. L.A. Weekly
    Reviewed by: Robert Abele
    70
    Mesmerizing and entertainingly confounding.
    Read full review
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