Vin
04-20-2002, 11:24 PM
<b><font size=+1>"Samurai Jack" Critiqued</font size=+1>
By Lyra Silverblade </b>
Greetings fellow travellers to this week's edition of Samurai Jack: Critiqued! When it comes to "Samurai Jack," it seems like the well has finally run dry for new episodes and viewers will not be able to see a fresh dose of the samurai's adventures until well into June, perhaps even later. Until Cartoon Network runs the six last episodes that complete the full 26-episode season, we will be treated to reruns, and a full hour of "Samurai Jack" reruns at that. In order to take care of the large back stock of unreviewed episodes in as timely a manner as possible, I will be reviewing both the episodes that run on Friday night. Consider it my service, to you the devoted fandom.
Onward!
1
<center><table border=0 id=AutoNumber1 cellpadding=2><tr><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv1.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv1.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv2.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv2.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv3.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv3.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td></a></td><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv4.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv4.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td></tr></table></center>
Episode XIV : "Crouching Monkey"
INTRODUCTION
This is by far one of the most misunderstood of Jack episodes, and simply because of the reason that the ultimate conclusion of the episode was actually left to imagination of the viewers, rather than showing an explicit denoument. Some maintain the whole episode was a "dream sequence", others say that it was simply a diversionary continuity buster that gave the production staff a chance to toy around with the "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" acrobatics that they've probably been dying to use since the very beginning of the series. But if the critical viewers ignore the cries for explanation and continuity, and take the episode on face value, they will realize that it was simply a solid, entertaining story. With FIGHTING MONKEYS. Cute little FIGHTING MONKEYS, people.
CRITIQUE
Obviously this wasn't an earthshaker like 18 (Jack vs. the Robot Assassins) or a heartbreaker like 19 (Visions of Home), but it was a standard take on the theme of "Jack Helps Critters in Need" that's going to be hashed and rehashed throughout the series. Not that it's a bad thing, because that's what Jack does, help critters. And frankly, this episode did it with a sweetness and heart that was made it palatable even though it was a simple premise. I don't know how ANYONE could resist those cute little blue monkeys, especially the one that climbed atop Jack's shoulders and started flicking his topknot.
The color in this episode was subtle, the background consisting mainly of muted greens and forest tones, but the structure of the scenes focused on the vertical aspect, which I found interesting, because it emphasized the size of the forest. Action took place in the bottom half of the screen, or in wide angle pan outs, which only added to the immensity of the rainforest. And of course this was all vital to establishing a veritable city of trees in which Jack would soon learn to travel through, monkey style. Sure it sounds silly, but it looks like a whole lot of fun. Which brings up another good point: our usually painfully brooding or violently stoic samurai hero, looks for once like he's genuinely euphoric. It's a little odd to see that kind of wide eyed glee on his normally sombre face... but I got used to it quick. Frankly, I'd like to see more of him in that kind of happiness. =)
CONCLUSION
Despite mass confusion and demands for clarification, I maintain that this was a quality episode. Samurai Jack has always been intended to be a storytelling kind of format, in which the visuals tell the story. This episode was just that, a simple little story that could easily stand on its own if separated from the rest of the plot, and was put in for the entertainment value and little moral message it contained. And for those of you who insist, Aku can't have been destroyed. The show's still going, isn't it? ; )
And now, for some fan response from the <a href="http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=30361">"Samurai Jack - XIV" Talkback Thread & Poll</a>:
<center><table border=0 id=AutoNumber1 cellpadding=2><tr><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv5.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv5.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv6.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv6.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv7.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv7.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td></a></td><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv8.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv8.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td></tr></table></center>
<li>"Wasn't too bad, aside from the nothing happening bit. I was unnerved by Jack running in his Underwear most of the ep. I'm a girl, I dig Jack, but he was waayy too nakey for a kids show. Not to mention the fact it always looks like he's wearing a diper. Seemed more like a rehash of Lukes Training on Dagobaugh(sp?) or something, though for some reason I did enjoy the quick "You can fl?" line, it's funny when Aku says nonsensical things. " -- <b>nerium_oleander</b>
<li>"The episode was meant to more of a character builder than a story progression. The white apes were more than charming, and it did remind me of the Star Wars/Dragonball type training segments that are more meant to show how he becomes strong, rather than actively using his strength." -- <b>CartoonFridays</b>
<li>"I thought this was a cute episode. It WAS a filler, but I enjoyed the fact that from an artistic point of view, the whole purpose of the episode was the final two Lines of the episode. We saw AKU tormenting Jack at the begining, and by the ending Jack had adapted....I enjoyed it, and laughed for a minute after the end of the episode. As jokes go, I thought that the timing at the end was perfect. The whole episode was just there for the final scene (and to generally make a fun episode). No, this is not an episode with a deeper meaning, but it was fun to watch, (and I liked how jack used the Staff against the other tribe rather than his sword, as the other tribe merely needed to be taught a lesson. not be massacred)" -- <b>zmanjz</b>
<li>"This episode was pretty good. As for it having no purpose, you could argue that the purpose was Jack having the opportunity to help out the ape creatures. My favorite part of this episode was when Aku was playing with Jack at the beginning by keeping the time portal out of his reach!" -- <b>LightAngel</b>
To read more replies, check out the <a href="http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=30361">"Samurai Jack - XIV" Talkback Thread & Poll</a>.1
Episode XVII - "If It's Not Scottish... IT'S CRAP!!!"
INTRODUCTION
This episode marks the illustrious return of one of the most beloved incidentals to ever be spawned from Mike Meyers character acting. Don't go denying it, The Scotsman was completely intended to be a jump off of the recent Austin Powers film character with the name that can't be mentioned in a Y7 forum, and you KNOW he is. Heck, he's a spoof on the entire Meyers Scottish humor montage: The Scottish Store owner, the Scottish Soccer Hooligan, Stuart MacKenzie (the father from "So I Married an Axe Murderer")... But let me assure you, SJ's Scotsman is far from painfully derivative. In fact, we get to see a whole new side of him in this episode, as his wife has been kidnapped by Celtic demons... his SENSITIVE SIDE.
CRITIQUE
Frankly, I was a bit nervous about having the Scotsman make a reappearance in the show so soon. He originally appeared as a "joke" incidental, and I was worried that bringing him back so soon would drag out the joke beyond its humor range. But as soon as the cantankerous clansman returned and got the story rolling, I was instantly reassured. The dynamic had been completely refigured to keep continuity with his friendship with Jack, and much to my approval, had been transformed into an buddy comedy, but with a twist. Jack was BORN to play the straight man, and watching him squirm under the rowdy cameraderie of the Scotsman is pure hilarity. Particularly his expressions when he unwittingly becomes Scotty's crying shoulder. Jack goes from stoic swordswinger to almost "David Spade-esque" dry dweebiness when paired with the Scotsman's flamboyant character, and it adds a certain richness to who he is. It would be far too simple to have Jack constantly be the gritty, silent, and brooding all the time, but the writers have been smart enough to place him in situations where he is obviously very much out of place, and seeing him sort of smile in confusion makes him all the more likeable and human.
For those who were hoping for more of the vitriolic insults that were part of the humor of the original Scotsman episode, they will not be dissappointed. When Jack and the Scotsman finally rescue the darling wife, she turns out to be far less of the darling that the Scotsman had related. Haggard is an understatment, folks, and she rips out with all of the crass crankiness of the Scottish that we've come to know and love, times two. If you can manage to decipher that thick brogue, there are a couple of doozies in there, and of course, a few potshots at our "dresswearing daisy" of a hero. And just when you think it can't get any funnier, she proves she's well able to cash the check that her mouth just wrote, Xena style! Make sure you're not drinking anything when the big fight goes down, or it just might end up all over the screen. And never EVER make commentary about a lady's weight if you wanna keep possession of you major internal organs.
CONCLUSION
If you're in need of a good laugh, then you won't have to go any further. The producers of SJ once again prove that they have total adept mastery of the element of humor, and are able to apply it in way that's neither cheap nor hackeneyed, but only serves to further endear the characters to the viewer's hearts. At this point, they're probably ready to plan a third Scotsman episode, and if they can handle it as well as they've handled the first two, I'll be awaiting it eagerly.
And now, for some fan response from the <a href="http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=25597">"Samurai Jack - XVII" Talkback Thread & Poll</a>:
<li>"You just gotta love the Scottish guy!!! Even when crying like a baby, he was cool! I love how they managed to work together as comrades to save his ungrateful, annoying wife! I was waiting for Jack to just slap her already! The ending...I'm still laughing over it. Poor Jack, he's always getting beat up or something. " -- <b>LightAngel</b>
<li>"This is by far the most funniest episode yet, that I've seen the Scottsman is so funny, his kinsmen, and his wife. The bit about hagis - I loved it! I laughed so hard, during the whole episode especially the begining, when Jack's at the cafe." -- <b>Kathy Kane</b>
<li>"It was nice to see a returning character and you just have to love the friendship between the Scot and Jack. I really enjoyed the various animal faces the other clan members had for their kilts....The wife got a bit annoying for me, but she made up for it when she started kicking arse....All in all, not the best SJ episode... but still worthy of 4 stars." -- <b>nothing</b>
To read more replies, check out the <a href="http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=25597">"Samurai Jack - XVII" Talkback Thread & Poll</a>.
Next week on "Samurai Jack," check out repeat airings of episodes "XVIII" and "XIII," beginning at 7:00 PM! Stay tuned to Toon Zone News for more "Samurai Jack" news and episode critiques!
By Lyra Silverblade </b>
Greetings fellow travellers to this week's edition of Samurai Jack: Critiqued! When it comes to "Samurai Jack," it seems like the well has finally run dry for new episodes and viewers will not be able to see a fresh dose of the samurai's adventures until well into June, perhaps even later. Until Cartoon Network runs the six last episodes that complete the full 26-episode season, we will be treated to reruns, and a full hour of "Samurai Jack" reruns at that. In order to take care of the large back stock of unreviewed episodes in as timely a manner as possible, I will be reviewing both the episodes that run on Friday night. Consider it my service, to you the devoted fandom.
Onward!
1
<center><table border=0 id=AutoNumber1 cellpadding=2><tr><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv1.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv1.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv2.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv2.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv3.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv3.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td></a></td><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv4.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv4.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td></tr></table></center>
Episode XIV : "Crouching Monkey"
INTRODUCTION
This is by far one of the most misunderstood of Jack episodes, and simply because of the reason that the ultimate conclusion of the episode was actually left to imagination of the viewers, rather than showing an explicit denoument. Some maintain the whole episode was a "dream sequence", others say that it was simply a diversionary continuity buster that gave the production staff a chance to toy around with the "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" acrobatics that they've probably been dying to use since the very beginning of the series. But if the critical viewers ignore the cries for explanation and continuity, and take the episode on face value, they will realize that it was simply a solid, entertaining story. With FIGHTING MONKEYS. Cute little FIGHTING MONKEYS, people.
CRITIQUE
Obviously this wasn't an earthshaker like 18 (Jack vs. the Robot Assassins) or a heartbreaker like 19 (Visions of Home), but it was a standard take on the theme of "Jack Helps Critters in Need" that's going to be hashed and rehashed throughout the series. Not that it's a bad thing, because that's what Jack does, help critters. And frankly, this episode did it with a sweetness and heart that was made it palatable even though it was a simple premise. I don't know how ANYONE could resist those cute little blue monkeys, especially the one that climbed atop Jack's shoulders and started flicking his topknot.
The color in this episode was subtle, the background consisting mainly of muted greens and forest tones, but the structure of the scenes focused on the vertical aspect, which I found interesting, because it emphasized the size of the forest. Action took place in the bottom half of the screen, or in wide angle pan outs, which only added to the immensity of the rainforest. And of course this was all vital to establishing a veritable city of trees in which Jack would soon learn to travel through, monkey style. Sure it sounds silly, but it looks like a whole lot of fun. Which brings up another good point: our usually painfully brooding or violently stoic samurai hero, looks for once like he's genuinely euphoric. It's a little odd to see that kind of wide eyed glee on his normally sombre face... but I got used to it quick. Frankly, I'd like to see more of him in that kind of happiness. =)
CONCLUSION
Despite mass confusion and demands for clarification, I maintain that this was a quality episode. Samurai Jack has always been intended to be a storytelling kind of format, in which the visuals tell the story. This episode was just that, a simple little story that could easily stand on its own if separated from the rest of the plot, and was put in for the entertainment value and little moral message it contained. And for those of you who insist, Aku can't have been destroyed. The show's still going, isn't it? ; )
And now, for some fan response from the <a href="http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=30361">"Samurai Jack - XIV" Talkback Thread & Poll</a>:
<center><table border=0 id=AutoNumber1 cellpadding=2><tr><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv5.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv5.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv6.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv6.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv7.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv7.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td></a></td><td width=25%><a href=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/xiv8.jpg target=_blank><img border=0 src=http://news.toonzone.net/images/sj/t-xiv8.jpg width=125 height=94></a></td></tr></table></center>
<li>"Wasn't too bad, aside from the nothing happening bit. I was unnerved by Jack running in his Underwear most of the ep. I'm a girl, I dig Jack, but he was waayy too nakey for a kids show. Not to mention the fact it always looks like he's wearing a diper. Seemed more like a rehash of Lukes Training on Dagobaugh(sp?) or something, though for some reason I did enjoy the quick "You can fl?" line, it's funny when Aku says nonsensical things. " -- <b>nerium_oleander</b>
<li>"The episode was meant to more of a character builder than a story progression. The white apes were more than charming, and it did remind me of the Star Wars/Dragonball type training segments that are more meant to show how he becomes strong, rather than actively using his strength." -- <b>CartoonFridays</b>
<li>"I thought this was a cute episode. It WAS a filler, but I enjoyed the fact that from an artistic point of view, the whole purpose of the episode was the final two Lines of the episode. We saw AKU tormenting Jack at the begining, and by the ending Jack had adapted....I enjoyed it, and laughed for a minute after the end of the episode. As jokes go, I thought that the timing at the end was perfect. The whole episode was just there for the final scene (and to generally make a fun episode). No, this is not an episode with a deeper meaning, but it was fun to watch, (and I liked how jack used the Staff against the other tribe rather than his sword, as the other tribe merely needed to be taught a lesson. not be massacred)" -- <b>zmanjz</b>
<li>"This episode was pretty good. As for it having no purpose, you could argue that the purpose was Jack having the opportunity to help out the ape creatures. My favorite part of this episode was when Aku was playing with Jack at the beginning by keeping the time portal out of his reach!" -- <b>LightAngel</b>
To read more replies, check out the <a href="http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=30361">"Samurai Jack - XIV" Talkback Thread & Poll</a>.1
Episode XVII - "If It's Not Scottish... IT'S CRAP!!!"
INTRODUCTION
This episode marks the illustrious return of one of the most beloved incidentals to ever be spawned from Mike Meyers character acting. Don't go denying it, The Scotsman was completely intended to be a jump off of the recent Austin Powers film character with the name that can't be mentioned in a Y7 forum, and you KNOW he is. Heck, he's a spoof on the entire Meyers Scottish humor montage: The Scottish Store owner, the Scottish Soccer Hooligan, Stuart MacKenzie (the father from "So I Married an Axe Murderer")... But let me assure you, SJ's Scotsman is far from painfully derivative. In fact, we get to see a whole new side of him in this episode, as his wife has been kidnapped by Celtic demons... his SENSITIVE SIDE.
CRITIQUE
Frankly, I was a bit nervous about having the Scotsman make a reappearance in the show so soon. He originally appeared as a "joke" incidental, and I was worried that bringing him back so soon would drag out the joke beyond its humor range. But as soon as the cantankerous clansman returned and got the story rolling, I was instantly reassured. The dynamic had been completely refigured to keep continuity with his friendship with Jack, and much to my approval, had been transformed into an buddy comedy, but with a twist. Jack was BORN to play the straight man, and watching him squirm under the rowdy cameraderie of the Scotsman is pure hilarity. Particularly his expressions when he unwittingly becomes Scotty's crying shoulder. Jack goes from stoic swordswinger to almost "David Spade-esque" dry dweebiness when paired with the Scotsman's flamboyant character, and it adds a certain richness to who he is. It would be far too simple to have Jack constantly be the gritty, silent, and brooding all the time, but the writers have been smart enough to place him in situations where he is obviously very much out of place, and seeing him sort of smile in confusion makes him all the more likeable and human.
For those who were hoping for more of the vitriolic insults that were part of the humor of the original Scotsman episode, they will not be dissappointed. When Jack and the Scotsman finally rescue the darling wife, she turns out to be far less of the darling that the Scotsman had related. Haggard is an understatment, folks, and she rips out with all of the crass crankiness of the Scottish that we've come to know and love, times two. If you can manage to decipher that thick brogue, there are a couple of doozies in there, and of course, a few potshots at our "dresswearing daisy" of a hero. And just when you think it can't get any funnier, she proves she's well able to cash the check that her mouth just wrote, Xena style! Make sure you're not drinking anything when the big fight goes down, or it just might end up all over the screen. And never EVER make commentary about a lady's weight if you wanna keep possession of you major internal organs.
CONCLUSION
If you're in need of a good laugh, then you won't have to go any further. The producers of SJ once again prove that they have total adept mastery of the element of humor, and are able to apply it in way that's neither cheap nor hackeneyed, but only serves to further endear the characters to the viewer's hearts. At this point, they're probably ready to plan a third Scotsman episode, and if they can handle it as well as they've handled the first two, I'll be awaiting it eagerly.
And now, for some fan response from the <a href="http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=25597">"Samurai Jack - XVII" Talkback Thread & Poll</a>:
<li>"You just gotta love the Scottish guy!!! Even when crying like a baby, he was cool! I love how they managed to work together as comrades to save his ungrateful, annoying wife! I was waiting for Jack to just slap her already! The ending...I'm still laughing over it. Poor Jack, he's always getting beat up or something. " -- <b>LightAngel</b>
<li>"This is by far the most funniest episode yet, that I've seen the Scottsman is so funny, his kinsmen, and his wife. The bit about hagis - I loved it! I laughed so hard, during the whole episode especially the begining, when Jack's at the cafe." -- <b>Kathy Kane</b>
<li>"It was nice to see a returning character and you just have to love the friendship between the Scot and Jack. I really enjoyed the various animal faces the other clan members had for their kilts....The wife got a bit annoying for me, but she made up for it when she started kicking arse....All in all, not the best SJ episode... but still worthy of 4 stars." -- <b>nothing</b>
To read more replies, check out the <a href="http://forums.toonzone.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=25597">"Samurai Jack - XVII" Talkback Thread & Poll</a>.
Next week on "Samurai Jack," check out repeat airings of episodes "XVIII" and "XIII," beginning at 7:00 PM! Stay tuned to Toon Zone News for more "Samurai Jack" news and episode critiques!