I remember the days of my youth when I was a growing adolescent and teenager. I remember the slow diligent process of growing facial hair, noticing more and more women, and the difference from my lovely falsetto voice into a more baritone/bass volume. I remember those days with good moments and I also loathe those days.
I hated my voice cracking, being sweaty, and the changes to my body that I learned in health classes. It is a tough time for young people to start their process of going through puberty and in the show Big Mouth, Nick Kroll and his team encapsulate some of the funny and weird issues that plague many when it happens.
The show features four friends starting puberty and along the way, deal with school drama, puberty monsters and lots of other issues. The show is starting season three pretty soon, so, is the show really worth your time and attention? We’ll review the characters, the story, and the humor of the show of season 1. Is this show up your alley or should it go back behind closed doors in shame. Let’s review season one of Big Mouth.
The show features the four main characters of Nick, Andrew, Jessi, and Jay. Each one of them are quite unique and offer different kind of a character dynamic to the show. Nick (voiced by Nick Kroll) is the short kid who has way too open parents and is a late bloomer when it comes to puberty.
Andrew (voiced by John Mulaney) experiences puberty and is having a hard time controlling his desires and needs. Jessi (voiced by Jessi Klein) is a down to earth female who is is slowly experiencing womanhood but with not many women friends, has to try and figure it out usually by herself. Jason (voiced by Jason Mantzoukas) is a kid who is all over the place with his sexuality, his love of magic and his kinks of couchs and pillows. These characters are all unique and go through puberty and deal with their hormone monsters in different ways. Andrew becomes a chronic masturbator and has the need to express himself sexually and desires sex, even though he hasn’t had it.
Nick is more innocent, a late bloomer whose hormones aren’t taking over and thus remains a blank slate on how hormones and puberty has affected everyone. Jessi really has a 180 with her hormones. She is likable, but with becoming a woman, a growing divorce of her parents and the mom finding a new lover, she becomes a very jaded emo who is just trying to maintain some sense of understanding. Jay just goes further down the rabbit hole on what he can hump and explore.
Besides humping a pillow and couch ottomans, his older brothers are just disgusting and their bad influences have definitely rubbed off on him. All the kids are very likable. You have a good laugh sometimes at their expense mostly because we can relate to them and remember, in our own childhood that we have been there before even if we try to deny it.
The story revolves around the four main characters with learning about puberty and their growing sexual desires and needs, such as finding themselves and Jessi having her time of the month. Without giving away spoilers or specific episodes, the story explores all the adolescent misunderstandings and discoveries of finding out who you are in growing up into a man or woman.
We meet the hormone/puberty monsters and Andrews’ monster is so out there and hilarious because they don’t have subtlety. He turns Andrew, who was a shy nerdy kid, into a young man who is constantly wanting sex and human contact just to relieve himself. The monsters forgo decency and just give their humans the worst advice on how to handle their urges. As the season continues, we delve more and more into the kids learning new lessons and trying to somehow not lose themselves while changing so much with puberty. Showing the need to return to their own innocence and just be good friends before all of the hormones start having their personalities and their attitudes change whether for the good or the bad.
The humor is definitely in your face. It is gut busting as well as cringe worthy. There are some moments when Nick and Andrew talk that are hilarious based on the immaturity, the naivety, and also just smart dialogue. Some of the uncomfortable humor does involve those characters too but mostly involves Jay and Jessi. Jay is just a dog and some of his humor is just absurd and so out there.
It is hard to figure out if it is really funny or are you laughing because you’re uncomfortable. Jessi’s descent into puberty offers some weird humor that made me as a man, feel uneasy, but that can just be me. Some of the comedy has been hit or miss at times. The overall feeling is that it’s in good fun and it does have a lot going on. The immature mind enjoying it a lot and the mature side also finding some of the jokes indeed laughable.
Overall, season one is a lot of fun. The main characters have their quirks and their own sense of humor and comedy. The ensemble characters like coach Steve and the monsters are greatly needed in making the show flow with lots of jokes and face palming expressions. I’m glad I did watch the show and I look forward to seeing season 2 and what craziness will take place.
1. Your Lie in April (Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso)
Director: Kyohei Ishiguro
Writer: Takao Yoshioka (screenplay), Naoshi Arakawa (manga)
Animation Studio: A-1 Pictures
Genre: Romance, Drama, Music
Runtime: Approx. 22 minutes per episode
Number of Episodes: 22
Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu
Synopsis: A talented young pianist, Kosei Arima, loses his ability to hear the piano after his mother’s death. His world changes when he meets the spirited violinist Kaori Miyazono, who teaches him to embrace music and life again.
2. Fruits Basket (2019 Reboot)
Director: Yoshihide Ibata
Writer: Taku Kishimoto (screenplay), Natsuki Takaya (manga)
Animation Studio: TMS Entertainment
Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Slice of Life
Runtime: Approx. 23 minutes per episode
Number of Episodes: 63 (3 seasons)
Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu
Synopsis: Orphaned Tohru Honda moves in with the mysterious Soma family, who harbor a magical curse: members transform into animals of the Chinese Zodiac. Amid unraveling secrets, she finds love and healing.
3. Toradora!
Director: Tatsuyuki Nagai
Writer: Mari Okada (screenplay), Yuyuko Takemiya (light novel)
Animation Studio: J.C. Staff
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life
Runtime: Approx. 25 minutes per episode
Number of Episodes: 25
Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll, Netflix, HIDIVE
Synopsis: Ryuuji Takasu and Taiga Aisaka strike an unlikely alliance to help each other win over their crushes, only to discover their feelings for each other along the way.
4. Violet Evergarden
Director: Taichi Ishidate
Writer: Reiko Yoshida (screenplay), Kana Akatsuki (light novel)
Animation Studio: Kyoto Animation
Genre: Drama, Romance, Slice of Life
Runtime: Approx. 25 minutes per episode
Number of Episodes: 13 + Special + Movies
Streaming Platform: Netflix
Synopsis: Violet, a former child soldier, seeks purpose as a ghostwriter and learns about love and human emotion through her clients’ stories.
5. Snow White with the Red Hair (Akagami no Shirayuki-hime)
Director: Masahiro Ando
Writer: Deko Akao (screenplay), Sorata Akizuki (manga)
Animation Studio: Bones
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Drama
Runtime: Approx. 24 minutes per episode
Number of Episodes: 24 (2 seasons)
Streaming Platform: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Synopsis: Shirayuki, a herbalist with red hair, flees her kingdom after catching the attention of a lecherous prince. She finds a new home and love with Prince Zen of the neighboring kingdom.
Rating
Storyline: 9/10
Performances: 9/10
Direction: 10/10
Visuals and VFX: 10/10
Music: 8.5/10
Overall Rating: 9.5/10
S.S. Rajamouli’s Baahubali: The Beginning is a magnum opus that redefined the landscape of Indian cinema. Released in 2015, this epic historical drama captivated audiences worldwide with its grandeur, compelling storytelling, and unforgettable characters. With a mix of mythological inspiration and cinematic spectacle, Baahubali: The Beginning sets the stage for an extraordinary tale of power, betrayal, love, and legacy.
The film tells the story of Shivudu (Prabhas), a young man raised in a tranquil village who is drawn to the mysterious and towering waterfall near his home. His curiosity and courage lead him to the kingdom of Mahishmati, where he uncovers his royal lineage and his connection to the legendary warrior, Amarendra Baahubali (also played by Prabhas).
The narrative is skillfully interwoven with flashbacks revealing a tale of palace intrigue, betrayal by Bhallaladeva (Rana Daggubati), and the valor of Baahubali. The first installment ends on a cliffhanger that leaves viewers yearning for answers about the fate of Baahubali and the sinister conspiracy surrounding his death.
Prabhas as Shivudu/Amarendra Baahubali: Prabhas delivers a dual performance that is both regal and relatable. His commanding presence as Baahubali is balanced by the playful and curious nature of Shivudu. Rana Daggubati as Bhallaladeva: Rana embodies menace and ambition, portraying a formidable antagonist. His physicality and intense expressions add depth to his character. Anushka Shetty as Devasena: Though her role is limited in this installment, her fiery spirit and tragic undertones leave a lasting impression. Tamannaah Bhatia as Avantika: Tamannaah brings grace and strength to Avantika, a rebel fighting for Mahishmati’s freedom. Ramya Krishnan as Sivagami: Arguably one of the film’s standout performances, Ramya Krishnan’s portrayal of the steely and noble queen is unforgettable.Sathyaraj as Kattappa: Sathyaraj adds emotional weight and intrigue to the story as the loyal yet enigmatic warrior.
S.S. Rajamouli’s vision is unparalleled. His ability to blend mythological grandeur with human emotions ensures the story resonates universally. K.K. Senthil Kumar captures the magnificence of Mahishmati and the breathtaking landscapes with a keen eye for detail. The film’s VFX is groundbreaking for Indian cinema, particularly the waterfall sequences and battle scenes. M.M. Keeravani’s music is a soul-stirring mix of grandeur and emotion, amplifying key moments. The intricate set designs and costumes reflect the film’s epic scale and authenticity.
Baahubali: The Beginning explores themes of heroism, loyalty, family, and the thirst for power. It highlights the cultural richness of Indian storytelling while presenting it in a universally accessible format. The film’s success not only established Telugu cinema on the global stage but also proved that regional Indian films could achieve blockbuster status internationally.
Baahubali: The Beginning is more than a film; it is an experience. Its blend of epic storytelling, jaw-dropping visuals, and powerful performances makes it a landmark in Indian cinema. The movie is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates grand narratives and larger-than-life characters. It leaves you in awe and eagerly anticipating the sequel, Baahubali: The Conclusion.
Whether you’re a fan of historical epics or someone looking for an immersive cinematic experience, Baahubali: The Beginning is a film that transcends boundaries and sets a gold standard for Indian films on the global stage.
Rating: 8/10
Genre: Action, Comedy
Runtime: 83 minutes
Director: Jonathan Eusebio
Writers: Matthew Murray, Josh Stoddard, Luke Passmore
Studio: 87North Productions, Universal Pictures
Stars: Ke Huy Quan, Ariana DeBose, Daniel Wu, Marshawn Lynch, Mustafa Shakir, Lio Tipton, Rhys Darby, André Eriksen, Sean Astin
Marvin Gable (Ke Huy Quan) is a former hitman who has reinvented himself as a successful realtor in suburban Milwaukee. But his peaceful life is shattered when Rose (Ariana DeBose), his former partner and lost love, reappears with a chilling warning. Adding to the chaos, Marvin’s estranged brother, Knuckles Gable (Daniel Wu), a ruthless crime lord, is on a relentless hunt for him. Forced to confront his past, Marvin must fight his way through old enemies and long-buried secrets—all while trying to keep his new life intact.
From the moment Love Hurts begins, it grips the audience with a pulse-pounding blend of action, comedy, and emotional depth. Director Jonathan Eusebio, best known for his stunt work in John Wick and Deadpool 2, makes a stellar transition to the director’s chair, delivering slick, hard-hitting action sequences that showcase his mastery of fight choreography.
Ke Huy Quan, in his first major leading role since his Academy Award win, is an unconventional yet compelling action star. He brings an everyman charm to Marvin, making him both relatable and surprisingly lethal when pushed to the edge. Ariana DeBose shines as Rose, exuding charisma and wit, while Daniel Wu commands the screen as a menacing yet layered villain.
The film moves at a breakneck pace, balancing high-octane action with well-timed humor and emotional weight. The chemistry between Quan and DeBose adds depth to the story, making their characters’ relationship feel authentic. While the plot treads familiar ground, it’s executed with such energy and style that it remains thoroughly engaging.
Love Hurts is a thrilling action-comedy that delivers intense fight sequences, sharp humor, and a heartfelt story. Ke Huy Quan proves that he’s not just a comeback story—he’s a bona fide action star. While the film doesn’t reinvent the genre, it executes its formula with precision and flair, making it a must-watch for action fans.
Final Rating: 8/10—An electrifying mix of action, comedy, and heart that proves love—and revenge—can hurt in all the right ways.
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