Dexter's Laboratory: The Complete Series... Reviewed!

Before I jump in, I have to give a thanks to WB for supplying a copy of this show for the review. My opinions are my own.

Dexter's Laboratory takes me back in time. I remember when it premiered on Cartoon Network under the "What a Cartoon!" line-up... along with Powerpuff Girls and Cow & Chicken. There may have been another show but I can't recall. Dexter's Laboratory was interesting. How interesting? Well... let's dive into the complete series and find out. Wait wait wait, before we jump in, I can't speak on interesting... without speaking on the case. I like the way they wrapped it with a cover that looks like Dexter... allowing you to see the case through his glasses. Slide it up just right, and you can see his sister sneaking through his lab. Okay, now let's... proceed!

 Story: When it comes to the story of Dexter's Lab(oratory), it revolves around... Dexter (duh of the day), who's basically Einstein in a third graders body trying to keep his lab a secret (though his sister always finds a way in).

His genius doesn't eliminate the fact that he's still a little boy, and it shows throughout the various scenarios he finds himself in on a daily basis. Speaking of his sister, Dee Dee, is definitely given the role of a complete airhead, but... she's a lot more free spirited and enjoy's childhood a lot more than Dexter. She flexes her brain power at times. He give's me the vibe of a cranky old man to a degree, with the voice of a villain. It's part of his charm though, especially when taking on different challenges that are caused by his own creations most of the time. Outside of the lab, you get to see more of those reactions and remarks, and his human side shows. One prime example is the episode when the babysitter comes over to watch him and Dee Dee. He clearly likes her, but there's an obvious age difference.

He's still Dexter, so he used his skills in a few ways in this episode when he became jealous of her boyfriend. One tactic worked out to a degree to get her and her boyfriend to temporarily split, but... he's still a small kid. So when he went to comfort the babysitter, she said "If only you were 10 years older". He did what Dexter would do, made that a reality... but he didn't take into account that his face would be covered in acne. Another example is when he was sitting on the couch watching Action Hank, he was in full kid-mode. He even hid when the antagonist appeared.

Anyway, you get 3 mini episodes packed into each episode (for the most part), and they're quite the easy watch with the comedic charm. One of the downsides to the mini episodes is the desire to see more of a particular mini episode, but... the variety is cool.  Speaking of variety, you will see scenarios like Dee Dee being transformed into Dexter's mom, a T-Rex/Pet Dog (aka Jurassic Pooch), episodes involving super heroes, etc. The episodes involving the heroes, definitely changes up the pace... it gives you a break from Dexter and Dee Dee. While reviewing the show, something dawned on me. Dexter's a little boy taking on grown men like Santa and even the freaking Janitor who throws forks at him, and literally gets into a fist fight. The janitor would totally be under the jail if that were reality, but looking at the show back then... I didn't think much of it. Crazy.

Before I speak on one of my favorite features in the show, I have to say that Mandark is the perfect villain for Dexter but I don't really care for the episodes he appears in for the most part. He's necessary though, afterall... he's the official antagonist, but... there were other go to episodes that I'd much rather watch (is all), like... Dial M for Monkey. Monkey is a bad ass super hero that Dexter believes is just a typical monkey he was unable to successfully experiment on. He has super speed, super strength, telekenisis, heat vision, telepathy, he can fly, use his mouth as a sonic ray, etc. Outside of Dee Dee and Dexter, he's one of my faves, along with Valhallen, and a few of the other Justice Friends. You will see the "Dial M for Monkey" segments tucked in here and there.

The show is well rounded with a unique premise, diverse characters, I love the superhero elements, the humor (some of which is rated PG), and the relatable themes, plus Mandark provides story progression so that there aren't just random scenarios by way of the mini episodes. On top of the episodes, Dexter's Laboratory: The Complete Series... also includes the Ego Trip movie.  Not to give it away, but... "Dexter's Laboratory: Ego Trip" is a movie that aired back on December 10, 1999. Do you remember those times? It's crazy, because it seems like it's a different world from today's time.

Anyway, the story follows Dexter as he discovers how he saved... the future, so it certainly involves time travel. He will be taking on Mandark, and there will be different Dexter's he comes in contact with. There's the young adult version of Dexter being treated like crap by his boss, Mandark. The middle-aged Dexter who is dealing with Mandark in his own way, as well as grandpa Dexter. They went hard with this film, but... I don't want to spoil it for you but it has humor, suspense, etc.

 Visuals: Visually speaking, the art style of Dexter's Lab is... on the wonky side. Their shapes are very exaggerated. Dexter is bite sized, while Dee Dee is elongated and you can see the bold lines and vibrant colors throughout the Dexterverse. The characters are easily recognizable as well, making Dexter's Lab one of the more eye catching shows from the "What a Cartoon!" lineup. You definitely get classic toon + anime look here.

The character's aren't the only vibrant things you see on the screen, the environment's fit the theme and don't fall flat. The movie's quality is enhanced, so you will see improved visuals without the art style being compromised. You get a cinematic feel from the movie, the different Dexter's stand out... along with the environments in their future setting.

 Audio: Sound wise... the show and movie are delivered in standard Dolby Digital, but... you will get enhanced audio in the film. It's more detailed and the audio effects are more immersive.

 Price: Pricewise... you can get Dexter's Laboratory: The Complete Series + Dexter's Laboratory: Ego Trip for $69.99. Solid price, no complaints... I like what they did with the box art, but (but but but... yes there is a but) I would've totally included a Dexter's Lab poster with all main and reoccuring characters. If fans are buying this... adding a poster is how you make this a steal. Speaking of steal, you can get it here for... $49.96!

Overall, Dexter's Laboratory: The Complete Series... serves as a delightful trip down memory lane, reminding us of a different era in animation while still maintaining its charm and humor for modern audiences. It's a solid show that doesn't feel outdated.

Story 5

Visuals 5

Audio 5

Price 5

5 out of 5 Cool Points

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Welcome Back, Kotter: The Complete Series... Reviewed!

This is a serious blast from the past, and shout out to WB for providing a copy of this product for my review. My opinions are my own.

I've never seen this show before (like ever), but... when I heard the theme song, I was like... ohhhh. The theme song is connected to multiple things I've heard growing up, "Welcome back... Welcome back... Wel-come... baaaacckkk!", but I never knew the origin. 'Welcome Back', was created by John Sebation back in 1975 (before my time) specifically for the 'Welcome Back, Kotter' TV sitcom. Enough about the theme song though, is the actually show any good? Let's jump in and find out!

 Story: I recognized a few faces in this show, which includes John Travolta, Lawrence Hilton, Della Reese, Vernee Watson, etc. Never knew this was Travolta's breakthrough role, I was thinking of Saturday Night Fever, but that came out a few years after the show started (again, before my time). 'Welcome Back, Kotter" takes place back in 1970's Brooklyn (NY)... keep that in mind, because it will feel outdated in a number of aspects (especially the singing and dancing). That 'Jeppers Creepers' performance definitely felt like something from that time (I made it through without hitting the mute button, but... I've never been crazy about singing in tv/film).

I won't say that this show isn't digestible by anyone beyond the time it came out or the location, because there are certain comedic touches that can be applied today. Horshack is a prime example. He was running his mouth trying to fit in with the other members for the Sweathogs when they were talking smack to Carvelli and Murray (but mainly Carvelli), and wrote a check with his mouth... that his butt didn't care to cash. He tried to get out of it by acting as if he didn't say anything. Some of you can relate to that via the Trolls on social media alone.

I think the story can be appreciated by newcomers aswell, especially teachers... because Mr. Kotter returns back to James Buchanan High School for the purpose of making a positive impact on the slackers. He takes a creative approach to connecting with the class for the purpose of engaging them, and teachers of today come to mind because the saga continues for a number of reasons. It could potentially be inspiration to connect with the students even more and gain more inspiration for the sake of helping them reach the finishline. I wouldn't say let your students trade off the way Kotter did, but... he wasn't uptight to the point where they weren't receptive.

Although the show revolved around Mr. Kotter and the Sweathogs, there were other aspects that challenged work/life balance for the teacher... because he was also a husband and father. It was good to see that addition added in there to give more depth.

 Visuals: Visually speaking, the show was cleaner than I assumed it would. It wasn't super grainy, the colors pop... and if you're cool with visuals that primarily consist of mids, longs, and closeups, enjoy! Speaking of visuals, I think you'll get a kick out of seeing the fashion from that time.

Speaking of visuals, it's too bad Afro's like Boom Boom's are deemed a fad a lot of the time. I rarely ever see them. It's not a fade, it's... natural.

 Audio: The audio is good. It's nothing that wowed me, but it's what I would expect. Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono.

 Price: Pricewise... the SRP for the 'Welcome Back, Kotter' complete DVD series is $74.99. But... you can get the hook up here for $55.99. You get all four seasons (95 episodes), which delivers a total of 35 hours & 30 minutes. If it were me, I would've added a fake gag mustache (similar to Mr. Kotter's) to the package. Overall, not a bad show at all and... I could see people crowding around the old telly back in the day. I think it's a good show for those of that time who want to revisit it, those who are curious and want to get a dose of that era + teachers and other faculty.

Story 4

Visuals 4

Audio 3

Price 5

4 out of 5 Cool Points

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Wednesday... Reviewed!

Shout out to Warner Bros Discovery for providing a copy of this show to review. My opinions are my own.

Right out of the gate, this show gained my interest thinking it was going to place Wednesday and Pugsley in a high school setting that challenged them to navigate through token school life, but then things shifted after something entertaining occurred. Does it hold up from this point? Let's find out.

Story: So that... thing that Wednesday pulled off at school to avenge Pugsley got her the boot, but not the students who kicked it all off (you know how that usually goes)... but her move to a new school took her from the ordinary to the abnormal via Nevermore Academy.

Wednesday goes into this season with smoke for her parents. It mainly seems like it's aimed at her mom (Morticia), but... her dad is getting that work as well. She seems to be a rebel with... causes she feels is noble. She doesn't believe in being a housewife, which I was like... is this going to be one of those show that revolves around that type of narrative with an Addams Family theme wrapped around it. It definitely remains tucked in the show... but it isn't oversaturated to the point that it commandeers the show. Thank goodness. A message is one thing, using it as a crutch instead of showcasing originality is something else... and Tim Burton didn't allow his name to be fuel for a dumpster fire.

But yeah... Wednesday doesn't just have a problem with that type of notion, she also doesn't believe in social media, she doesn't believe in cell phones... and just seems to be anti-anything that she feels would annoy her (which isn't far off from Wednesday). It's carried as a badge of honor by Wednesday to represent that she doesn't allow others to define her.

I would've loved to see how things played out at the traditional school, but the deeper I got into the various chapters... the show got even better. I don't really see the comedy aspect (unless it's dry dark comedy... until the family graces the screen), but the mystery... yes! I'd even call it a thriller to an extent as Wednesday tries to find the truth about a book that dates back centuries... and appears to be tied to the Addams family and their history in Jericho. The past doesn't just tie in Wednesday's ancestor, but also her dad... (Gomez) who had the local sheriff convinced that he was a killer.

So you have that aspect placing them opposite sides, plus the drama that takes place at the academy and Jericho in general. It almost feels like a cross up between The Outsider + Star Girl + Bones... featuring Thing. I was actually trying to see if Thing was doing sign language, which in part he was... and fun fact, it's a form of ASL that I use (called Signed English). Signed English is finger spelling with one hand but at a fast past that allows you to hold a conversation (with deaf individuals and the hearing impaired).

Overall, this is a really good show, despite the pace picking up closer to the finale. With over 6 billion minutes poured into the show in its first five days, it's safe to say that others feel similar outside of curious viewers (who watch the trending suggestions).

Fun fact: This is Netflix's most popular English TV series of all time. That's the power of flexing your creativity in a way that viewers appreciate.

Visuals: Visually speaking, you get a lot of dark vivid scenes in this film. They're broken up with the sunny days around town, but certain areas still deliver that darkness despite the sun shining. This show captures plenty of mid shots, closeups, with low angles and high angles tucked in (i.e. the balcony scene involving Gomez, Principal Larissa, and others). One of my favorite shots was Wednesday and a classmate climbing into the spiraled cave. I won't say anymore about that, but it was a nice angle.

Audio: Wednesday is served up in DTS-HD Master Audio, as well as Dolby Digital 5.1. 

I listened with both surround sound speakers and... 1More S50s. The quality audio makes this series even better, and it's easy to point out the sounds when the action kicks up... but subtle sounds like Lurch walking across the floor or Thing breaking someone out of a cop car sounds great too. Proper placement and quality sounds go such a long way and I appreciated what was done here. I watched the finally a few times just to hear it over again, especially when all hell broke lose and things got a little... electrifying (that sounded sweet on the headphones).

Price: Price: Pricewise you can get... Wednesday on DVD for $24.98 & $29.98 on Blu-Ray. Is it worth it? Yes, you get multiple elements that give you the feel of a thrill ride to a degree, plus the mystery aspect, plus the love interest(s) that some viewers crave even if Wednesday doesn't exactly know how to show it in a way we deem normal, but... she's an Addams (what can ya can about it, huh?). You get over 480 minutes in the 2-disc Blu-ray that serve up 8 well-rounded episodes that feel like a long movie. These episodes move you closer to the finale with ease... because they're easy to binge watch thanks to the cliffhangers. The ending also leaves the door open for another season. Personally, I would've celebrated the success of the first season with a special edition disc that included a Thing keychain.

Story 5

Visuals 5

Audio 5

Price 5

5 out of 5 Cool Points

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Blue Beetle... Reviewed!

Special thanks to WB for supplying a copy of this film to review, our opinions are our own.

To start off, I must say that Blue Beetle offers an enjoyable movie experience. The filmmakers' evident passion and dedication to the source material shine through once you see the special features (then you make connections if you aren't familiar with the comic book series. Their goal was to create a superhero adventure that stands out from the rest while staying true to the original comic as much as possible. In many ways, they have succeeded, introducing us to Jaime Reyes, a Latino superhero taking on the mantle of Blue Beetle (played by actor Xolo Maridueña from the Kobra Kai TV series). Is the movie worth the purchase? Well, let's find out.

Story: In this film, we follow Jaime, a recent college graduate who is on a quest to find his purpose and a fulfilling career in Palmera City. Little does he know that his path will take an unexpected turn when he comes in contact with the Scarab, an ancient relic of alien biotechnology, which transforms him into the Blue Beetle.

While the film has its merits, it does have one notable flaw that lies in certain acting performances, which can be attributed to the writing and directing. Susan Sarandon's portrayal of the main antagonist, Victoria Kord, comes across as somewhat... cheesy and unconvincing. It feels as though she is trying too hard to embody the role of a formidable baddy but falls short of hitting the mark. It serves as a reminder that the quality of acting should take precedence over the fame of the actor. The actor (Raoul Max Trujillo) who played Carapax... owned it.

It would've proven more effective if she were the boss who harbored bitterness from past events, unaware that a secret was brewing within the company that she unconsciously was being used for. It would have been a surprising twist if she wasn't directing Carapax's actions, but more so the spark that justified the outcome. This would have made her character more authentic and their relationship more genuine... with a twist. Unfortunately, her wannabe cold-hearted nature could have been better portrayed in this approach over trying to be the big bad boss that falls short. While the director shares some blame, Victoria Kord comes off as a sassy manager. Dr. Sanchez could've been the one pulling the strings or working for Carapax in my opinion.

On the other hand, Jaime's grandmother showed promise, but the action scenes lacked oomph and could have been executed more effectively. The responsibility for this lies with the writer and director. I understand the desire to maintain a bit of comedy with select characters, but it felt like serious scenes with a touch of... Spy Kids during some of them (not to say it was bad, but it was a bit... wonky). 

The director struck again during a vital scene with Milagro Reyes (played by Belissa Escobedo) and her father that shifted the focus onto something less significant than what occurred shortly after with the family's home. This had nothing to do with the acting. All it would've taken was for Milagro to look at their home and then hug her father because the biggest concern was already at play. I believe this won't spoil the scene, but it gives you an idea of how simple it could have been to fix this weird moment.

Despite its flaws, the interactions between Jaime and his family add a lot of warmth to the film, making it a standout feature. It almost felt like a sitcom on the big screen, and that's a positive aspect. Without his family, the movie would have lacked an essential element and would have felt dull. Their chemistry and relationships create a perfect combination and are a significant strength of the film.

The cliffhanger ending of the movie leaves a lot to ponder. It hints at a potential sequel, but it's safe and may leave audiences unsure of the future. I feel like a sequel is justified for the simple fact that the Blue Beetle just got started, and we should be able to see him living the life of a full-fledged Superhero.

By the way, I have to give it to Rudy Reyes (played by George Lopez). He captured the unofficial sidekick role well even though many could fill these shoes in one way or another. He was utilized well, though his paranoia could have played a deeper role by way of doing things to confirm his suspicions. Maybe this would have opened the door that tied the grandmother's backstory in more because his uncle would have seen and heard things. 

There is always room in a sequel to dive deeper now that this film has taken flight, but we shall see.

Visuals: Visually, Blue Beetle is stunning, with impressive angles and visually pleasing shots. The city is vibrant, and the special effects were on point. 

Audio: The audio was also solid, although the theme music lacks something. All the music in that film, and that's the theme that they landed on? It's a short unfulfilling loop. I would've preferred a Latin hip-hop flare or something. There was enough playing in the film, so why not some theme music that borrowed from it?

Audio: Dolby Atmos TrueHD & Dolby Digital. While it doesn't show surround sound, it's there... don't worry (at least in 5.1 CH), and it enhances the experience.

Price + Special Features: Pricewise, you can get the Blue Beetle in 4K for $29.96, on Blu-Ray + Digital for $24.96 (best value), and DVD for $19.96. The movie ships October 31, 2023!

Special Features:

Blue Beetle Generations: Origins, Production Begins, In Full Flight and A Hero's World

Scarab Vision: Episode 1: Initiation and Episode 2: Mastery

Blue Beetle's Nana Knows Best

All in all, Blue Beetle is an intriguing superhero film, with an engaging plot and endearing characters. It has its flaws, but it's still a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre.

Story 3

Visuals 5

Audio 5

Price + Features 5

4.5 out of 5 Cool Points

 + Sophima 

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Rick And Morty: The Complete Seasons 1 - 6... Reviewed!

Shout out to WB for providing a copy of this product for review. My opinions are my own.

We've been here and done that when it comes to Rick & Morty Seasons 1 to 6, so this will be more of an article giving you access to previous reviews... while discussing what's available in this bundle + price.

Rick and Morty is an adult animated sci-fi sitcom that follows the adventures of an eccentric and alcoholic scientist named... Rick Sanchez and his kind yet gullible grandson Morty. The duo travels to different dimensions and planets, getting into all sorts of situations along the way. The show often explores themes of existentialism, family, and the consequences of scientific advancement.

The writing sends the story in various directions from episode to episode, but the storyline does progress... and growth can be seen in each character to an extent. Below you will find links to the review of all 6 seasons.

Rick and Morty Seasons 1 - 4... Reviewed! | Season 5... Reviewed! | Season 6... Reviewed!

This 6 Blu-ray disc set comes with all 61 episodes, audio commentary, deleted scenes, "Inside the Episode" segments, numerous featurettes, animatic sketches, copious special features + more (that include a limited-time Rick and Morty poster).

When it comes to price, this bundle comes in at $129.99 SRP ($119.99 in Canada) for Blu-Ray & $114.99 SRP ($99.99 in Canada) for DVD. Of course, you can get the hook-up for much less, here!

I don't have a problem with the price, it comes with all the bonus material the team has cooked up over the years, but... I do have a problem with one thing. What's up with the poster?! You can't possibly go from the kickass poster from the Seasons 1 - 4 bundle to one of Mr. Frundles. I get it, I understand that maybe some people may get a kick out of it because of what it represents, but... no. It only shows his face in the corner, it could have shown something a bit more visually appealing or... give us a sticker of the fold that showcases his face. A sticker would've been a win in my opinion.

That's my only objection. If it were me, I would have maybe surrounded the family with Mr. Frundles in whatever scenario they'd prefer to do. I probably would have even made a Mr. Frundles picture frame and had the family in the picture, that would've made great use of the space, but I'm not a part of the team.

Story 5

Visuals 5

Audio 5

Price + Extras 5 (The other extras save this from losing a point for the poster.)

5 out of 5 Cool Points

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Who's That Protagonist? The Yoga Master - Chapter 1