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

Generally favorable reviews- based on 254 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 57 out of 254
Watch Now

Where To Watch

Buy on
Stream On

Review this tv show

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling

User Reviews

  1. 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
  2. Jul 24, 2011
    10
    Cin-Cin-Cin skinny as a pin skinny as a fatty spells cincinnati..John,
    Enjoyed your dialogue withDavid Milch. However, it just amazes me that he just recites dialogue and can recall paragraphs back for revisions. He has a strong mind. I did watch all of Deadwood in 1 week.
    Will watch for your next creative effort.
    Friend of Jerry S in Chicago.
  3. stevel
    Aug 3, 2009
    10
    The creators of John from Cincinnati did some things that automatically got it in trouble with some viewers -- not the least of which is that it appears that it might be about the second coming of Christ. I would have rated it lower for not being clever enough to handle the difficulties in the story in a more acceptable way -- but the acting was so good, I just couldn't compromise. The creators of John from Cincinnati did some things that automatically got it in trouble with some viewers -- not the least of which is that it appears that it might be about the second coming of Christ. I would have rated it lower for not being clever enough to handle the difficulties in the story in a more acceptable way -- but the acting was so good, I just couldn't compromise. gays, christians, jews, conservatives, liberals, etc will all find problems ahead of time with John, which is too bad because it is wonderful story telling. Expand
  4. 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?
  5. MarkW.
    Sep 18, 2007
    9
    A rare gem that deserved another season (or three). JfC reveals more with each viewing, so it is not shocking that many critics were dismissive after a single viewing of the first episode. The show was very smart and complex. View the whole series once it is out on dvd and you will be richly rewarded. Ed O'Neill stands out in a talented and spot-on cast.
  6. TammyL.
    Sep 15, 2007
    10
    JFC is the best show yet!!! Shame they are not going to have season 2! HBO... I'm dropping my subcription the first day of OCT
  7. 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!
  8. 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.
  9. AmyM
    Aug 26, 2007
    10
    The critics don't know what they're talking about. John from Cincinnati was addictive, and wonderful. Please bring it back, HBO!
  10. 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.
  11. Teds.
    Aug 24, 2007
    10
    the show is awesome,PERIOD. We need a little out of the norm in relief of the daily grind.
  12. barbarat.
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    Love it! nothing like guessing and watching the next episode to find out you're wrong!! Good show.....great cast!
  13. martinc.
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    revelatory and exeptional, and, of course, now cancelled.
  14. 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.
  15. 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!
  16. ReedH
    Aug 19, 2007
    10
    One of the best TV shows ever! Understood what it was all about from the first episode, and grew to love it after the mesmerizing and poetic Episode 6. Every character grows from self-absorbed and clueless at the beginning to caring and self-aware at the end, all thanks to John ,who is somehow beyond human; and the show was fun too. Sorry to see it go.
  17. LorrieS
    Aug 18, 2007
    10
    very different and I love it.
  18. seanh
    Aug 17, 2007
    10
    Fantastic show, great cast. I will miss it. Like Deadwood, it was rich in potential and possible story lines.
  19. 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.
  20. StephanieK.
    Aug 17, 2007
    10
    I love this show. Am completely addicted. It's a little out there but the ensemble is incredible, talk about worth the time. I am a busy executive with 2 kids and a hubby, I travel a lot and am completely spellbound by this show.
  21. stevem.
    Aug 16, 2007
    10
    great cast screwy plot just what television needs
  22. 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.
  23. RichT.
    Aug 15, 2007
    10
    Great Show. Boston Globe knucklehead cannot comprehend the gritty, almost unbathed feel of the show. But what do you expect, he works for the Globe.
  24. 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.
  25. JAmieM.
    Aug 14, 2007
    10
    Love this show so mucho!!!
  26. 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
  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. SteveJ.
    Aug 14, 2007
    10
    This show does exactly what it's supposed to do, leave me guessing and wanting more!
  29. 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.
  30. jonh
    Aug 13, 2007
    10
    best show on tv. if you are stupid, you won't like it.
  31. LAURIEB
    Aug 13, 2007
    8
    Ive watched since day 1 and still have no idea what its about, but cant stop watching.
  32. 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.
  33. 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.
  34. 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
  35. JM.
    Aug 12, 2007
    10
    This is a show worth investing in !!! How thrilling it is to not feel patronized by Mr. Milch and the other writers. I am so looking forward to more episodes. It's quite a ride- one we have really enjoyed dropping into.
  36. 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?
  37. 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.
  38. AlexO
    Aug 7, 2007
    9
    Aasuming the story sucks, this gets a 7 out of the gate for it's originality and courage.
  39. TimR
    Aug 7, 2007
    10
    I find the show very entertaining and thought provoking. I look forward to it every week. Great job.
  40. 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.
  41. SKB
    Aug 6, 2007
    10
    This show is raw and "in your face." I like that. It's a refreshing change from the usual mindless fair that doesn't challenge in any way. I hope HBO picks it up for another season, at least. Not being able to get to fully understand and know these characters, would be a real shame.
  42. 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.
  43. MichaelM.
    Aug 1, 2007
    10
    Great show
  44. JimW.
    Aug 1, 2007
    10
    Every character is a gem. I can hardly wait until Sunday night!!
  45. 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
  46. HIM
    Jul 31, 2007
    10
    Intellectually challenging and quite a refreshing change from Pavlovic shows such as "Grey's Anatomy"
  47. 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!
  48. 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!
  49. 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
  50. gloriac
    Jul 30, 2007
    10
    Captivating and wonderful on every level...finally, something worth watching!
  51. 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.
  52. PaulG
    Jul 28, 2007
    10
    Compulsive viewing.
  53. MeredithK
    Jul 27, 2007
    9
    I think the critics needed to give this a few more episodes. Many a good series started off unpopular but grew in popularity with time. Remember "Cheers," for example. The cast is brilliant, and the implications delicious. J from C = J.C. And I'll be damned if surfers don't appear to walk on water. MK
  54. 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.
  55. jebh
    Jul 25, 2007
    10
    I love this show!!!
  56. jeff
    Jul 24, 2007
    9
    this show was interesting from the first episode. After the first show i was trying to figure out what was supposed to be going on, after the second i gave up and just kept watching. Now i can't stop. Every episode makes me look forward to the next. If you want to start watching know maybe you can get caught up through " on demand". I admit that there was a slow episode or two but it this show was interesting from the first episode. After the first show i was trying to figure out what was supposed to be going on, after the second i gave up and just kept watching. Now i can't stop. Every episode makes me look forward to the next. If you want to start watching know maybe you can get caught up through " on demand". I admit that there was a slow episode or two but it lust leads to the next show which ends up being great. Expand
  57. 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
  58. AprilT
    Jul 23, 2007
    9
    Fabulous show, well written and very well acted. Great dialouge and plot.
  59. 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
  60. MichaelP
    Jul 22, 2007
    10
    A different breed of TV. Fantastic show. You gotta let it roll over you slowly. Not like other shows. Give it a try and only watch episodes in order.
  61. emilyb
    Jul 22, 2007
    10
    Just keeps getting better and I still don't understand it.
  62. 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!
  63. 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.
  64. DonaldA
    Jul 19, 2007
    10
    The show is fantastic! It's complex and effective; I think the NYT reviewer missed the point -- shocking.
  65. 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.
  66. Joyce
    Jul 18, 2007
    10
    We LOVE this show! Can't get enough and would love to read blogs, what do others think. Stranger than strange, remember Twin Peaks? Who and what is John?
  67. josh
    Jul 18, 2007
    10
    it is the best, and most clever show i've seen on TV.. i'm hooked.
  68. RyanB.
    Jul 17, 2007
    10
    This show is amazing. It the best thing that HBO has done in a while.
  69. KevinF
    Jul 16, 2007
    10
    Great show! Very Original!
  70. KristaL.
    Jul 16, 2007
    10
    My husband and I love this show. Ed ONeil is hysterical and mysterious. His character has been wonderfully developed into a complex person who is enormously involved with the story. Cissy is a trip, she is one crazy mom. The last 2 episodes have shown how much of an impact her mental instability has on the whole entire family. This last episode from 7/15 revealed a great deal of back My husband and I love this show. Ed ONeil is hysterical and mysterious. His character has been wonderfully developed into a complex person who is enormously involved with the story. Cissy is a trip, she is one crazy mom. The last 2 episodes have shown how much of an impact her mental instability has on the whole entire family. This last episode from 7/15 revealed a great deal of back story which was needed, but at the same time brought about many more questions. It showed us a couple of reasons why Cissy is such a "ball-buster" as quoted by Butchie. It dives into the disturbing details of Butchie and Cissy's relationship and digs a hole into the darkness of Butchie's heroine addiction. Needless to say, I hope that this show sticks around to answer the all the questions that come with watching it every Sunday. Expand
  71. NanetteB.
    Jul 15, 2007
    10
    This is my husbands favorite show. He isn't a TV watcher unless it has something to do with Football, but he never misses this show.
  72. 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.
  73. 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"
  74. BrianF.
    Jul 11, 2007
    9
    grows on you as you watch each new episode
  75. 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.
  76. 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.
  77. LedZ.
    Jul 7, 2007
    10
    Great TV. Mist be willing to wait for story line payoff but nothing else like it on TV and I mean that in a good way.
  78. KeithR
    Jul 7, 2007
    10
    Awesome Show
  79. RachelV
    Jul 6, 2007
    10
    I love it! I ordered HBO just for this show.
  80. JoanG
    Jul 5, 2007
    9
    Very enjoyable. Quirky, mystical, thought-provoking, Good writing. I look forward to future episodes.
  81. ArthurF.
    Jul 5, 2007
    8
    Brilliant quirky touching
  82. DanC.
    Jul 4, 2007
    10
    David Mitch and Kem Nunn have put together a truly unique and captivating show containing the action and tension of characters putting
  83. 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.
  84. KarenR.
    Jul 3, 2007
    10
    Odd but very entertaining show...will definitely continue to watch.
  85. 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.
  86. 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
  87. 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!
  88. 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
  89. 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.
  90. 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!
  91. 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.
  92. 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
  93. THeresaL.
    Jul 2, 2007
    8
    It is a thought provoking and interesting piece of television.
  94. 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!
  95. 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!
  96. 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. . .
  97. 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
  98. 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.
  99. 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
  100. CurtisW.
    Jun 29, 2007
    9
    Early in the game but I'm along for the ride.
Metascore
50

Mixed or average reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 24
  2. Negative: 7 out of 24
  1. 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.
  2. Intriguing but not entirely satisfying.
  3. 70
    Mesmerizing and entertainingly confounding.