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. RyanB.
    Jul 17, 2007
    10
    This show is amazing. It the best thing that HBO has done in a while.
  2. garya.
    Jul 16, 2007
    2
    No more Deadwood.....No more Rome.....For THIS load of crap?!! Somebody tell me that this is a just a very bad dream!
  3. KevinF
    Jul 16, 2007
    10
    Great show! Very Original!
  4. 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
  5. karen
    Jul 16, 2007
    5
    While this show keeps you tuned for the most part, its more like watching a train wreck. The character could have potential if they could complete a sentence without screaming at each other. I think Sissy is one of the worst characters with the "you moron" phrase in just about every sentence. Milch need to give the characters more depth so we can relate or sympathize or bond with at least While this show keeps you tuned for the most part, its more like watching a train wreck. The character could have potential if they could complete a sentence without screaming at each other. I think Sissy is one of the worst characters with the "you moron" phrase in just about every sentence. Milch need to give the characters more depth so we can relate or sympathize or bond with at least one or more of them!!!… Expand
  6. MikeL
    Jul 15, 2007
    6
    It's addicting like a rubix cube. I don't have any idea what's going on, but I want to figure it out so I'll keep watching it. The acting is terrible and so is the plot. As soon as you think the series is about one thing, they come out of left field with a superpower or something. However, I can't stop watching it... not to entertain me, just because I have to It's addicting like a rubix cube. I don't have any idea what's going on, but I want to figure it out so I'll keep watching it. The acting is terrible and so is the plot. As soon as you think the series is about one thing, they come out of left field with a superpower or something. However, I can't stop watching it... not to entertain me, just because I have to figure out what's going on.… Expand
  7. JamieK.
    Jul 15, 2007
    1
    I can't believe I have watched 5 episodes of this crap. I see from the comments already posted is that people either love it or hate it. It had the potential of being very interesting, yet it has take so long for something to take shape, I have lost interest. I can't really feel anything for any of these characters who are so screwed up. I wonder if enough people will watch for I can't believe I have watched 5 episodes of this crap. I see from the comments already posted is that people either love it or hate it. It had the potential of being very interesting, yet it has take so long for something to take shape, I have lost interest. I can't really feel anything for any of these characters who are so screwed up. I wonder if enough people will watch for it to be picked up again. Now Flight of the Conchords....that is a show!… Expand
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. JayJ.
    Jul 13, 2007
    0
    booooooooring
  11. 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"
  12. C.B.
    Jul 11, 2007
    6
    I was really interested through the first 4 episodes... now I'm just pissed
  13. BrianF.
    Jul 11, 2007
    9
    grows on you as you watch each new episode
  14. BobW
    Jul 10, 2007
    0
    Just terrible. I keep watching because I simply cannot believe that the people at HBO could do something so pathetic, in fruitless anticipation of improvement.For this Deadwood was canceled? For this I would not cancel a beer commercial.
  15. 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.
  16. 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.
  17. 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.
  18. KeithR
    Jul 7, 2007
    10
    Awesome Show
  19. RachelV
    Jul 6, 2007
    10
    I love it! I ordered HBO just for this show.
  20. JoanG
    Jul 5, 2007
    9
    Very enjoyable. Quirky, mystical, thought-provoking, Good writing. I look forward to future episodes.
  21. ArthurF.
    Jul 5, 2007
    8
    Brilliant quirky touching
  22. 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
  23. 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.
  24. KarenR.
    Jul 3, 2007
    10
    Odd but very entertaining show...will definitely continue to watch.
  25. 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.
  26. 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
  27. 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!
  28. 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
  29. 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.
  30. 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!
  31. 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.
  32. 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
  33. THeresaL.
    Jul 2, 2007
    8
    It is a thought provoking and interesting piece of television.
  34. 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!
  35. 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!
  36. 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. . .
  37. JimboFromJersey
    Jul 1, 2007
    0
    Completely unwatchable.
  38. 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
  39. 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.
  40. 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
  41. CurtisW.
    Jun 29, 2007
    9
    Early in the game but I'm along for the ride.
  42. 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
  43. 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
  44. RobL
    Jun 28, 2007
    1
    This show has no charm or pizazz. There is no actor/actress on the show that I find interesting.
  45. 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.
  46. 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
  47. C.M.
    Jun 27, 2007
    2
    I can not remember a show where the characters were more unlikeable and annoying than they are in this confusing mess of a show called "John From Cincinnati." After a frustrating three episodes, I am severely tempted to abandon the strain sitting through what amounts to a lot of hard to swallow wierdness and yelling. As I believe the story line has potential; however, I shall give it one I can not remember a show where the characters were more unlikeable and annoying than they are in this confusing mess of a show called "John From Cincinnati." After a frustrating three episodes, I am severely tempted to abandon the strain sitting through what amounts to a lot of hard to swallow wierdness and yelling. As I believe the story line has potential; however, I shall give it one more opportunity to charm and entice rather than fill me with distaste and bafflement.… Expand
  48. 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
  49. 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
  50. franckJ
    Jun 26, 2007
    9
    This is a weird show but in a good way, there are a mix of drama, comedy,fiction.
  51. 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
  52. JoannieS
    Jun 25, 2007
    1
    Insult to a thinking person's intelligence. No redeeming qualities. Worst show I've watched in years.
  53. RichardK
    Jun 25, 2007
    3
    This show is just plain bad. After barely being able to finish watching the 3rd show, I've concluded that I don't care about any of these people, especially John. After Deadwood, I thought David Milch would have come up with something really great. What a major dissapointment.
  54. StephenR
    Jun 25, 2007
    0
    No plot, characters that are imposible to sympathize with, let alone identify with or even relate to; self-important scenes with pretentious, awkward dialogue, total lack of believability and ultimatelys disconnected from mianstream America as the Bush administration. Someone's got too much money to take the time to shop at a supermarket.
  55. kristinl
    Jun 24, 2007
    10
    I love the mix of character personalities and that I feel like I know them to an extreme certain extent. I have no idea where where its going but I will definitely be along for the ride
  56. danh
    Jun 24, 2007
    9
    Those that dont get it, probably dont get a whole lot! My girlfriend and I are completely hooked
  57. 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.
  58. JohnB
    Jun 20, 2007
    10
    Outstanding. Fine acting and fascinating plot - never dull with Milch.
  59. JohnS
    Jun 19, 2007
    9
    Great show! John reminds me of the lead actor in 'Eraserhead' - love it!
  60. 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.
  61. JW
    Jun 18, 2007
    10
    Through two episodes "John from Cincinatti" has the intrigue of Heroes (though it does not have the desperate need for a great conclusion, something Heroes failed miserably in) combined with the sharp wit and dialogue of Deadwood. While I am not sure where Milch plans to go with the supernatural edge the story brings if he has something even remotely decent in mind the show will be Through two episodes "John from Cincinatti" has the intrigue of Heroes (though it does not have the desperate need for a great conclusion, something Heroes failed miserably in) combined with the sharp wit and dialogue of Deadwood. While I am not sure where Milch plans to go with the supernatural edge the story brings if he has something even remotely decent in mind the show will be brilliant. Ultimately, it is the interactions between the characters, in particular, the way that everyone reacts with the title character that makes this show so enjoyable. The wit is undeniable, and the two Deadwood actors that we have been exposed to thus far, have been nothing short of brilliant. I just hope that they get Timothy Olyphant involved at some point. How he was not cast as Linc (Luke Perry's character), I will never know.… Expand
  62. Alexa
    Jun 18, 2007
    1
    Possibly the worst project Milch has ever undertaken. This show makes no sense. However it is about as good as NyQuil for putting you to sleep.
  63. frankc
    Jun 18, 2007
    9
    unusual and thought provoking....not the average mindless dribble
  64. Andre
    Jun 18, 2007
    0
    The worst show on TV. I can't believe HBO got rid of Deadwood for this.... So Very Sad
  65. TonyE
    Jun 18, 2007
    2
    This show is, at least based on the premiere, one of the most ridiculous, unwatchably pretentious TV shows ever produced. I give it a 2 only because it's good to see Ed O'Neill, the one member of the cast I didn't want to choke through the screen.
  66. MarieL
    Jun 17, 2007
    10
    I loved the show and look forward to more of the same. I loved watching the surfers. It reminds me of the great Northern Exposure show and all the quirky characters that made that show so special. This has the potential to do the same. The "big mistake" HBO made was not only putting it on the same night as the Soprano's finale, but right after that show. Hence, all the detractors are I loved the show and look forward to more of the same. I loved watching the surfers. It reminds me of the great Northern Exposure show and all the quirky characters that made that show so special. This has the potential to do the same. The "big mistake" HBO made was not only putting it on the same night as the Soprano's finale, but right after that show. Hence, all the detractors are trying to compare it to the Sopranos and are all huffy because they think it's supposed to be a replacement and the Soprano fans are pissed off and vetting their anger at the way Chase ended the show. They are taking it out on this potential great little show. This was a big HBO mistake. I only hope they give the show a chance to catch on. Remember, no one liked Six Feet Under either !!!!!… Expand
  67. AdamG
    Jun 17, 2007
    6
    I don't really know what to make of this, but there were funny bits that were worthwhile. It's quite off-putting in a lot of ways, but I really want to know more about John and so will be tuning in tonight for episode 2.
  68. 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.
  69. Philo
    Jun 16, 2007
    8
    So far so good. The show has considerable room to grow with a solid cast. To those who think it is confusing... relax and catch a ride. The show is a lot like surfing, it's never predictable, simple but takes some effort, and enjoyable just watching it.
  70. [Anonymous]
    Jun 16, 2007
    10
    Loved the soundtrack to this show
  71. 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.
  72. ts
    Jun 15, 2007
    2
    Dull. It might have lofty ambitions, but fails miserably in execution. Making it "weird" is no substitute for making it engaging. An frankly it wasn't that weird. I like weird. It was just tedious.
  73. KamakuraKid
    Jun 15, 2007
    10
    Excellent show, give it a chance. I am tired of the types of shows where everything is spelled out in the first 20 minutes, this show is not an insult to those of us who enjoy quality TV.
  74. RinaF
    Jun 15, 2007
    9
    Quirky, bent, surreal. John From Cincinnati, it's definitely a ride and a rush. You don't know what to expect but you're hooked. I love it!! Totally different, a stand alone.
  75. 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.
  76. 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.
  77. JimM
    Jun 14, 2007
    2
    I somehow, against my better instincts, managed to watch the first episode. The entire time I kept trying to figure out how they could take Deadwood off the air for this 'Twin Peaks' wanna-be.
  78. 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!!
  79. CathyO
    Jun 14, 2007
    8
    After the extremely disappointing ending to the Soprano's, I found this series intriguing, humerous, and fun to watch. I TVO'd it so I could watch it a second time (granted, it is a little offbeat) and I liked it even more. Of course, I loved Carnival, Deadwood, and Six Feet under. The actors consist of a fantastic cast and being a California girl, I adored the surfing shots. After the extremely disappointing ending to the Soprano's, I found this series intriguing, humerous, and fun to watch. I TVO'd it so I could watch it a second time (granted, it is a little offbeat) and I liked it even more. Of course, I loved Carnival, Deadwood, and Six Feet under. The actors consist of a fantastic cast and being a California girl, I adored the surfing shots. Lighten up critics!… Expand
  80. languidg
    Jun 14, 2007
    8
    Ok, Deadwood, 6 feet under, and Sopranos were amazing. Rome pretty good. Big Love horrific. If your with me here, than I can't imagine how this strange, vague, weirdness wrapped up in surfing wouldn't be stimulating. I think people should lay off being overly judgmental until more episodes are digested as well.
  81. 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.
  82. 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.
  83. biffk
    Jun 14, 2007
    2
    HBO's new "edgy" drama is a wipe out. Don't go near it without lots of pain medication nearby.
  84. QuispL
    Jun 13, 2007
    10
    I f@*#'n loved it!
  85. JM
    Jun 13, 2007
    3
    Left DEADWOOD for this? Shameful.
  86. BillR
    Jun 13, 2007
    6
    Pretty uneven plot. So far, the show doen't seem to know what it wants to be. However, it has potential.
  87. WillH
    Jun 13, 2007
    8
    I thought it was really funny. I wasn't expecting that.
  88. 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
  89. DeeA
    Jun 12, 2007
    10
    I'm hooked after seeing the first show. Quirky and funny with some great acting. The show is filmed in Imperial Beach which is close to where I live in San Diego. IB which us locals call it has always been a strange beach town sitting right on the border of Mexico. There is a run down end of the line feel to the place that has been that way for the 40 something years that I have I'm hooked after seeing the first show. Quirky and funny with some great acting. The show is filmed in Imperial Beach which is close to where I live in San Diego. IB which us locals call it has always been a strange beach town sitting right on the border of Mexico. There is a run down end of the line feel to the place that has been that way for the 40 something years that I have lived in San Diego. It is the perfect backdrop to the messed up charaters in the show. Can't wait to see more!… Expand
  90. 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"...?
  91. BobP
    Jun 11, 2007
    8
    wacky, offbeat, right up my alley so far!
  92. LacyR
    Jun 11, 2007
    1
    Pretentious dribble. A far reach to try to encompass the intellectual crowd. The only people who could enjoy this series are those as mentally challenged as the characters featured on it. Bottom line, "it sucked Dude"
  93. mitchl
    Jun 11, 2007
    9
    this show as awesome finally something to set the tivo to. smart tv
  94. bwwest
    Jun 11, 2007
    1
    terrible-boring-uneventful-if they think cusing makes the show good they are fucked up.
  95. MichelleC
    Jun 11, 2007
    2
    very confusing - boring - and tuned out after 10 inutes.
  96. CraigT
    Jun 11, 2007
    5
    i watched the first episode right after the sopranos, and i just came up with a big "meh." i think the fact that surfing's not nearly as cool as the mafia, grizzled fightin' cowboys in the old west, or a neurotic man running around LA getting into arguments with people will be the death knell of this show.
  97. RickJ
    Jun 10, 2007
    10
    Wonderful. Way to go Milch. Look forward to many more.
  98. Travis
    Jun 10, 2007
    1
    Not just bad (the kid who plays Sean must be one of the worst actors I've seen), but incredibly boring. I tried so hard to get through the entire premiere episode but had to give up halfway through.
  99. jordon
    Jun 10, 2007
    8
    Confounding but intriguing plotline. But most important, after one episode, I think I can grow to love these characters.
  100. 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.
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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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