King Monkey is summoned to heaven by the Jade Emperor. However, his mischievous tendencies lead him to eat all the heavenly peaches, gaining immortality. Expelled to Earth, alongside two of the Emperor's disgraced officials, Monkey is encased in a mountain as punishment by Buddha, whilst one official is made a pig spirit (Pigsy) and the other a water spirit (Sandy). Years later, the Buddhist boy priest, Tripitaka, frees Monkey and recruits him alongside the other two as his disciples. Their journey is to reach India from China to fetch the Buddhist scriptures to bring peace to the people of the world. Monkey is a Japanese program that adapts from the Chinese novel 'Journey to the West' by Wu Cheng'en, which received an English dub for release in the UK, which the show is probably most known for. I was introduced to the show by my Mum and a co-worker, who equally believed it to be right up my street as a fan of strange cult classics. Naturally, they were absolutely right. Nothing could be more peculiar than a stone ape born from an egg on a mountaintop who battles demons, and I was all for it. I was an instant fan from the first episode, which alone was unlike anything I had experienced before. Equally, as a whole, the series astounded me with a whole plethora of attributes that made the programme feel uniquely special. The overflowing care and work put into the project is ever present, featured through outstanding ambitious special effects, flashy and exceedingly well-choreographed action and a stellar cast of energetic actors. Undoubtedly, my favourite member of the group is Monkey, the Great Sage and Equal of Heaven. His mischievous nature always makes him a delight to watch, using his cheek on both his friends and foes. He is equipped with a great many skills, knowing every magic trick under the sun, though his coolest abilities consisted of his magic wishing staff that could grow and shrink, along with his iconic skill of summoning his pink cloud to ride on. Some of his magic is quite bizarre, however, like turning into a wasp and turning his chest hair into an army of monkeys. Monkey, also partakes in countless fights (usually starting them), which show off his impressive techniques and the exquisite choreography that never ceases to get you pumped with adrenaline. Sandy, once commander of the heavenly host, now turned cannibal water spirit, brings a lot of knowledge and wit to the group delivering probably some of the funniest quips in the show. Pigsy, once marshal of the heavenly host turned pig spirit, is frequently fixated on eating, being lazy and looking for women, though when it counts, he's a helpful asset. Tripitaka is the boy priest sent on the holy pilgrimage who is kindhearted, always doing what's right and keeping the group in check. Finally, there is also the dragon/horse/man, Yu Lung, which is a peculiar statement, sure to confuse nonviewers. Whilst perhaps a somewhat straightforward story of travelling from point A to B, this journey is riddled with countless and widely varying stories that challenge our intrepid travellers. Waves of demons cause a whole manner of problems for our group, coming in all sorts of forms with special powers. Each requires different approaches from some being fought and thwarted to others reconciled and redeemed. Whilst there is a great deal of action and ecstatic comedy, the show holds an equal amount of heart, which is acted tremendously by the superb cast. The show would also not nearly be as popular if it wasn't for the phenomenal soundtrack by Godiego, who brings such lively tracks to the vigorous fight scenes, especially the theme song 'Monkey Magic' which is unnaturally catchy. Interestingly 13 episodes were never originally dubbed, being deemed too dark, featuring very mature themes, though eventually receiving a dub in 2004, making all episodes available. Overall, I had a blast with Monkey. I truthfully didn't expect to be so engrossed in it that once I'd started, I couldn't stop. I adored the effects, which were so spectacular for its time, to the unbelievable action and fantastic delivery of the actors and dubbing voice actors. An extraordinary cult classic deserving of far more recognition.
Seasons & Episodes: 2 Seasons - 52 Episodes
Creators: Wu Cheng'en, Hirokazu Fuse, Motomu Furuta, James Miki ...
Robin of Loxley is chosen by the mystical Herne the Hunter to become his 'son' and champion the oppressed. Gathering a band of comrades around him he fights a guerilla campaign against their Norman dictators, particularly the Sheriff of Nottingham and his deputy, Guy of Gisburne. Robin of Sherwood is a show that takes the classic tale we all know and reimagines it, interweaving it with atmospheric mysticism. At its core, it holds a much more supernatural presence when compared with other interpretations of the myth. I was certainly intrigued by this choice, which only grew exponentially with each episode that delved into it further. It was undoubtedly a superb idea to incorporate it within such a rich story, whilst managing to equally share in historical accuracy. Alongside the magical aspects of the show, I was equally invested in the focus on developing intricate backstories for its characters. Naturally, being a series would give each member of the loveable outlaw group the time to grow and be thoroughly explored over its hour-long episodic adventures. Of course, we know the characters from the tale, but I really appreciated that this show gave us deeper looks into these already beloved figures, allowing us to grow closer to these versions. I would go as far as to say that this variation of the group of outlaws is my favourite of any Robin Hood adaptation. Michael Praed was a true stand-out as the titular rebel leader Robin, who was perfectly cast alongside Judi Trott's Marion, who is stunningly beautiful and becomes a skilled fighter upon joining the band. The rest of the crew, of course, features Little John a once-bewitched giant who loves to show off his strength and have a laugh, Will Scarlet is the grumpy fighter who loves nothing more than to get in the thick of the action, Friar Tuck watches out for the Lady Marion and holds the team together through their darkest moments, Much is Robin's foster brother a bumbling fighter and lookout and finally, Nasir a Saracen professional assassin freed from an equal spell like John. These depictions of the classic and new characters were fantastically acted by their respective actors and I loved seeing the formation of this unlikely unity of outsiders as well as their later adventures. Guiding them on their quests, is Herne the Hunter, the mystical forest-dwelling spirit who instructs Robin in leading his group in favour of returning peace to the land. The third and final season saw the replacement of Praed's Robin with Jason Connery as Robin of Huntington, though brief, his performance was not remotely on par with Praed and wasn't as favoured by fans. Opposing our heroic band is the Sherrif of Nottingham, Robert De Rainault a ruthless and harsh ruler who seeks the ultimate demise of Robin and his band, caring only for further power and riches. He commands Sir Guy of Gisburne who equally shares his sentiment of the rebels and is frequently pinned against Robin on countless episodes though always failing to capture the outlaw. The Sherrif and Gisburne were easily the highlight of the series and utterly phenomenal villains. You can't help but love them. I am sent to hysterical laughter whenever the Sherrif loses his temper with Gisburne as his performance takes on a theatre-like presence. Another highlight of the series was the action. There are some envigorating duels scattered throughout the show with so many flashy sword fights (mainly delivered by Nasir) to bow and arrow standoffs. There is plenty of exciting action to captivate viewers over the countless breathtaking on-location sets like the towering lush green forests. The final component to this shows magnificence is the music by Clannad. Their mixture of folk-based sounds, harmonies and synth make for a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that is inimitable, which fits the series perfectly as the equal mixture of old and 'modern'. Overall, Robin of Sherwood is my absolute favourite depiction of the Robin Hood legend. It has so many exceptional qualities from the cast, characters, music, action and stories that make it such a delight. It has received a steady fan base who revere it extensively. I heartedly recommend this to all fantasy and Robin Hood enthusiasts.
Theorising that one could time travel within his own lifetime, Dr. Sam Beckett stepped into the Quantum Leap Accelerator and vanished. He awoke and found himself trapped in the past, facing mirror images that were not his own and driven by an unknown force to change history for the better. His only guide on this journey is Al, an observer from his own time, who appears in the form of a hologram that only Sam can see and hear. And so Dr. Beckett finds himself leaping from life to life, striving to put right what once went wrong, and hoping each time that his next leap will be the leap home. Quantum Leap is an exceptionally creative series, which built such a limitless potential premise. A time-travelling scientist who becomes random people of the past with a problem (or has the potential to help with someone else's issue), which he tries to put right. I was instantly sold on the show from its time travel aspect and matched with the idea of someone jumping into other people's lives to change history was a fascinating concept. We follow Sam Beckett, the man behind the Quantum Leap project, who upon activating is now confined to leaping between lives until he can make his way home. Throughout these travels he finds himself hurtled into a vast array of peculiar predicaments, becoming people of any profession, age, colour, culture, religion, background and even the opposite sex. It opens the floodgates of possibilities as he is thrown into situations he couldn't have comprehended or prepared for. From a test pilot, priest, singer, boxer, hit man, archaeologist, reporter, secretary, vet, chauffer, detective, magician, stuntman to a DJ, the list goes on as to the many special situations Sam will find himself leading. I especially love how with each leap Sam's reflections aren't his own, but those he has become since after all it's their body he is in. The best part of this detail would be during the end of an episode where he leaps and we get a peek into the next adventure. It led to plenty of intriguing cliffhangers, leaving viewers to theorise what wacky situation would follow from the snippet of his new life. Aiding Sam in these difficult tasks is Al, a friend from the 'present day' who can communicate with Sam by means of a hologram only he can witness. By far, Al is my favourite character mainly due to his comic relief and his fashionable dress sense. I equally love the effects used as he passes through objects or people due to his holographic state, which was both funny and useful in the situations at hand. Despite being a hologram and viewable to only Sam, there is a small set of occasions where other people could see him (mainly little children and animals), which delivered some highlight moments in the series. He has Sam's back through all his hardships and uses his gadgets to communicate with Ziggy (a computer A.I. built by Sam to run the project) to access history records as well as theorise how best to guide Sam to accomplish his task. However, Al doesn't always have the stomach for some of the leaps especially being very superstitious, scaring easily when things turn spooky. Their relationship was a stand-out element to the series, because whilst they may have very contrasting personalities and views they care deeply about one another, working together through thick and thin. Personally, I found the earlier part of the show to be its best particularly the first season, which explored the potential of the show and delivered some poignant character-driven stories that would carry onward to the rest of the series. The later seasons would feature some ambitious and unusual episodes that were quite interesting but none more so than its finale entry. Despite being somewhat controversial it gives the series a definitive conclusion that many shows of the time wouldn't have usually gotten. Overall, Quantum Leap is yet another quality series from the 80s and 90s. It delights in transporting us, alongside Sam, into a wide variety of stories and adventures with each episode. Its ability to take us through different decades and see into a plethora of lives is as equally fascinating as entertaining. I highly recommend this unique classic to all TV enthusiasts.
"Ray" is a shadowy, enigmatic character with no traceable past. People in trouble often come to him for help, since he has a lot of important and powerful contacts. He refuses to be paid for his services; however, those seeking his assistance must promise him a favour. Sometime in the future, Ray will come to collect on that favor usually to aid him in another case. Stingray is a show that quite frankly took me by surprise and left me completely amazed. As I have stated many times I am a huge fan of the 1980s so naturally this show came up on my radar and it was no exception to fueling my admiration for the decade. The show shares plenty of similarities or themes recognisable in other 80s products such as Knight Rider (TV Series 1982-1986) being a man with no identity with a sleek black car or The A-Team (TV Series 1983-1987) being an aid for hire to those in need. All the while sharing similar elements Stingray holds its own identity, which it has undoubtedly ascertained over a plethora of attributes, starting with our lead. Despite having no official name, everyone refers to him as Ray on account of his car a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and even at times people simply call him Stingray. Ray is a man of many skills that he relies on to complete his mission, like for instance, his competence in martial arts, which he uses against the countless oppositions he faces. He is equally an exceptional driver and has a knack for hiding his true identity, especially from officials like police or other members of the government. Being so highly trained, Ray can adaptively overcome the struggles placed before him and persevere till he helps his clients with their unique problems. One of the most engaging aspects of the show was the problems Ray is called upon for. There are many varying situations throughout the show that Ray must overcome from rescuing kidnapped individuals, locating missing people, investigating strange activities, infiltrating dangerous areas, stopping murderers and so on. In most cases it sounds pretty by-the-mill type scenarios to get hired for however this show makes them feel fresh and different. Although intersected among those styles of episodes are ones that are so unique and out-of-the-box crazy that it hooks you immediately before anything is even laid out. From a young client flipping like a switch and trying to kill Ray at the start of an episode, an infected man dying at Ray's house dragging him into a near horrific virus outbreak or someone driving a similar Stingray model car killing Ray's potential clients pretending to be him. These episodes where someone doesn't even hire him and he is drawn unwillingly into a perilous mystery are utterly thrilling. Equally, some episodes take new approaches in their storytelling like an episode where an old lady novelist writes a story that perfectly details the events of Ray's current mission. Just as the episodes take a fresh and out-of-the-box approach, so does every other department in its construction. I am mainly referring to the style of directing and cinematography on display. Throughout this show I was frankly entranced by the experimental camera angles, shots and editing present that was like something I had never seen before. It felt different almost like a student testing and experimenting with their methods on a project and I was intrigued. I would sit in awe as the directors took me on a journey to new heights in filmmaking. Be that as it may, some pieces can be a bit disorienting but even they lended to this distinctive style. Finally, I have to talk about the theme tune and intro. It is phenomenal. It is extreme 80s at its finest with a catchy tune to boot and a fantastic lineup of flashy imagery to get you pumped. Overall, I absolutely adore Stingray and I simply can't believe how many people haven't seen or heard of it before. I was thoroughly gripped by this series and consider myself so fortunate to have stumbled upon it. Everything on display from Ray to the car, the intro, the fighting, the action, is all extremely cool and just awesome. Plus all 25 episodes of the show are available on YouTube for free, making for some ideal and accessible viewing thanks to FilmRise Television.
The end of the Clone Wars marks the rise of the oppressive Empire. Amid the chaos, an elite unit of unusual clone troopers defies its orders and chooses to go on the run. Joined by a young clone named Omega, the so-called Bad Batch struggles to evade the constant pursuit of its enemies. Following the highly praised and extensive show that is Star Wars: The Clone Wars (TV Series 2008-2020), we are allowed to see the immediate shift of the galaxy as the Empire begins to form. I was ecstatic at the chance to see such an intriguing period of the Star Wars galaxy get fully delved into. Especially since this magnitude of change between eras had rarely been shown, particularly not from the direct moment things flipped in the aftermath of Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005). The best part about it is the fact we follow a group of clones who, because of their defective nature, didn't follow through with the treacherous Order 66 like the rest of the clones. Their genetic mutations made them resistant to the effects of the order and allowed them to see for themselves the truth about the Empire. The Bad Batch's explosive introduction in the Clone Wars was simply fantastic giving us an insight into the highly skilled unit and their enhanced abilities. The group and their mutations are as follows: Hunter the leader exceptional tracker, Wrecker the muscle and demolition expert, Tech the brains with a heightened mental capacity and Crosshair the sniper with a keen marksman eyesight. The group also includes Echo, once a regular clone, experimented on by the enemy, and left with cybernetic modifications, which he now brings to Clone Force 99. Each member is individually entertaining and only becomes more enjoyable as they play off of one another. They almost feel like a space equivalent of The A-Team (TV Series 1983-1987), and I was all for it. This squad is a formidable team that never fails to get the job done, be it in their unique way. I do wish we had gotten to see more of their Clone Wars stories (since we know episodes were partially made before cancellation) but I can't deny that getting a whole show dedicated to them isn't a bad compromise. I was immediately hooked by the opening episode that saw the beginning of the galaxy-wide shift and how each member of the crew handled the experience. The confusion, distrust, scepticism and conflict was a captivating lead into the show and witness the lead to their cutting ties with the Republic turned Empire. The crew are aided in their escape by another genetically modified clone, a young girl called Omega, the only female variant. They take her with them, away from their changing homeworld of Kamino in search of somewhere safe, now as fugitives. I truly adore this group, they have such a special bond and each has a lot to learn out in a galaxy where the only life they had known was being a soldier. Clone Force 99 develops across each season as a whole and individually as the group take on the form of mercenaries. Of all the members, I felt the most captivated by Crosshair who underwent the most growth and was a truly fascinating aspect of the series. On their countless missions, we see many familiar faces from both Clone Wars and Rebels, with plenty of incredible references and nods to enjoy. This squad goes against just as many foes as friends with Imperials, bounty hunters and varying threats on the planets they encounter up against them. Whilst the show may feature the occasional 'filler' episode, I felt that the show mainly consisted of quality content with some exceptional stories throughout. It is full of planet skipping, enthralling missions, character growth, action and heart. What more could you want from an episodic sci-fi adventure serial? Overall, I absolutely love The Bad Batch just as much as Clone Wars. Whilst I may prefer the other, I think this is the perfect sequel. Each season is outstanding and ups the stakes, pushing the squad to their limits in plenty of thrilling ways. With a phenomenal cast and an abundance of space-hopping journeys, it is certainly worth its entertainment value. For more animated shows, check out Star Wars: Rebels (TV Series 2014-2018).
It is a dark time in the galaxy as the evil Galactic Empire tightens its grip of power from world to world, ruling with an iron fist. Equally, they resort their efforts to hunting down the last of the Jedi Knights that survived the purge. However, a clever, disparate crew aboard the starship Ghost takes a stand against the Empire. These rebels are leader Kanan, ace pilot Hera, feisty heroine Sabine, tough guy Zeb, mischievous droid C1-10P "Chopper" and 14-year-old con artist Ezra. Set fourteen years after the tragic events of Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005), we see the small beginning of the Rebellion during the Empire's height in power, five years beforeStar Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977). Like many others, I was kind of sceptical about Rebels. I am a huge Star Wars fan but despite my love for the franchise I didn't seem much interested in this program. I suppose, like many, I found the animation slightly off-putting, being too childish or nowhere near the quality of the then prematurely cancelled Star Wars: The Clone Wars (TV Series 2008-2020). However, as time passed and Rebels came to its end, I finally picked it up, gave it a go and ... I loved it. Whilst not to the degree of Clone Wars, I came to adore this show in every way. The characters who had such complex stories that grew and flourished over seasons were fantastic, the world-building was fascinating, the cinematography breathtaking, the music phenomenal, the villains exceptional and the stories enthralling. Now the show isn't without its problems. There were a few filler episodes, or some early episodes being more child-oriented as a kid's show, but like every show, Star Wars or not, they can be overlooked or deemed inconsequential. People deemed Clone Wars a kid's show after all, which we all know is incorrect and this show, as it progressed, took a similar stance. Instead of following multiple stories featuring a vast array of characters like CW, we focus on one group of characters, the Ghost crew, in a linear narrative. This rebel group is made up of unique members who come from different backgrounds but despite all of this they become a family. Each member is extremely interesting from the Jedi survivor Kanan Jarrus, skilled Twi'lek pilot Hera Syndulla, Mandalorian warrior and artist Sabine Wren, Lasat Zeb one of few survivors of his race, psychopath droid Chopper to young force-sensitive Ezra Bridger. Every one of these individuals touches one another's stories, guiding their peers in their journey simultaneously with their own. My favourite would have to be Kanan as I found the idea of a Jedi who survived Order 66 as a padawan using his lesser training to become a Knight and take on a padawan, Ezra, who is equally gifted but lacks training. Zeb offers some superb quips and banter, Chopper is psychotic as he kills thousands throughout the show in a shockingly humorous manner, Sabine embraces her art by painting her armour or hair and Hera acts as the mother of this family who happens to be one of the most skilled pilots in the galaxy. However, their mission is frequently put in jeopardy by a roster of villains ranging from Agent Kallus, the Inquisitors (dark force users tasked with hunting remaining Jedi), Darth Vader, Governor Pryce and Grand Admiral Thrawn. Some spectacular moments derive from these antagonists as they face one another throughout the series. Along the way, we encounter many systems, planets and characters both new and old with many recognisable faces from the movies and, most especially the Clone Wars, which is a big highlight of this show. I also love how the show gets much darker with each season as things take a more sinister turn, especially leading up to the events of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016). Overall, I adored Rebels and despite its minor issues, the show is practically on par with Clone Wars. It takes many leaps into some outstanding adventures that tie neatly with many other properties whilst becoming a unique and important product in its own right. I'd highly recommend this show to all fans, as you may be just as pleasantly surprised. For more of the Ghost crew check out Ahsoka (TV Series 2023-), set around 10 years after this show.
Single mother to daughter Molly, DI Alex Drake has rapidly risen through the ranks of the Met and, in the modern world of 2008, skillfully uses psychological profiling to capture suspects. However, Alex is shot in the head by a mad gunman, suddenly awakening in 1981. Interacting with familiar characters, not just from her lifetime, but also from the detailed reports logged by none other than Sam Tyler. DCI Gene Hunt is back, flanked by his faithful sidekicks, Ray Carling and Chris Skelton, but will he be able to get on with Alex? Following on from the phenomenal show, Life On Mars (TV Series 2006-2007), we are brought an equally exceptional addition to this fascinating world that sees fatally injured cops transported into the past with no idea as to its reality or not. This time we are in 1981, where Hunt and team have vacated from Manchester to London and Sam Tyler has mysteriously disappeared. Thrown into the mix is our new protagonist, DI Alex Drake, who like us, is craving answers to this phenomenon as she is ripped from her world and daughter into a peculiar, alien land. Alex has an arguably greater affinity for getting back than Sam being a single mother who needs to get back to her young child. Alex equally has more going in her favour when hurtled into this setting having studied Sam's report of his experience when he temporerily returned to the modern day leaving all his findings and experiences to be analysed. She knows all about the characters like Gene as well as all the speculations of Sam's experience. Her skills in psychological profiling make her a force to reckon with as she fundamentally aids the team in cracking some of the harder cases. Upon her immediate arrival to this world, we are greeted with a marvellous introduction from none other than Gene Hunt himself who speeds onto the scene in his bright, gleaming red Quattro accompanied by Ray and Chris. The return of these characters from Life on Mars was simply awesome with each having slightly altered looks matching the times but with their same unaltered mannerisms. Gene is still arguably the best character across both shows with his frequent witty dialogue and unrivalled temper that is frequently put to use on criminals. Ray and Chris have grown too that only further develops throughout the seasons. I'd have to say I much preferred Ray in this series as whilst he was great, his 'rivalry' with Sam made him a bit unlikable, whereas he is extremely fleshed out here and given many occasions to show a more human side. Chris still has a childish naivety, larking about, offering plenty of spectacular gags. We are introduced to new members of the crew too, WPC Shaz and Sergeant Viv. Shaz represents the female side of the law during the time and she looks up to Alex, who takes charge, not taking the behaviour or comments of her peers. Viv works on the front desk delivering news to the Gov and overseeing any who come and go in the department from prisoners to contraband, etc. With each season, Alex undergoes new challenges from trying to save her parents from a car explosion whilst haunted by a creepy clown. Uncovering corruption in the workplace under the mysterious 'Operation Rose' whilst a man who knows all about Alex and what is truly happening in this reality lingers in the shadows. Or the investigation into Gene Hunt and his office by DCI Jim Keats who attempts to twist Alex's judgement to undo Hunt, uncovering what happened to Sam. Each season got progressively better with a slow start that picked up into a running speed. I loved how each season focused on one new narrative and 'bad guy' whilst keeping it overarching. I also love that the show's final season managed to wrap up the story of not only this series but Mars too, answering what this world is and who Hunt is in an outstanding finale that is unbelievably magnificent. Overall, Ashes to Ashes was a beautifully crafted continuation and conclusion to the plot line laid out in Life on Mars. The characters are equally entertaining as before and the new members stand beside them, delivering equal levels of quality. I was incredibly hooked and so glad to witness something so fresh and unique. So worth watching!
(Unfortunatly only the 2nd Season intro is available on YouTube so I cannot show the 1st and 3rd versions)
Series Trailers:
Hilarious 'Uptown Girl' Dream Sequence:
During the show, Alex sees many strange things but none so brilliant as the sequence where she dreams everyone performing a take on the 'Uptown Girl' music video. Absolutely hysterical!
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