Jem - The Complete 1st & 2nd Seasons (1985) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Like most cartoons of the 80's, JEM may have had an agenda of commercialism behind it. But that in no way should overshadow the fact that this cartoon aspired to be more than what it seemed at the superficial level. JEM made a serious effort to not only capture the attention of girls ages 5-13(through a mixture of catchy 1 minute bubblegum pop tunes and a lucrative collectors doll market), but to actually distinguish itself as something special in the annals of animation lore.As a young comic-book obsessed, introverted boy in the 80's, JEM first managed to catch my attention as part of an animation block of Saturday morning programming along with Bigfoot and the Monster Machines, and the Inhumanoids.As a boy and die-hard comic freak, I tuned in for the Inhumanoids naturally. But there was something about JEM that automatically captured my attention. Perhaps it was the "super-hero" aspect of the show. Perhaps it was the bevy of gorgeous animated babes. Whatever it was,I was instantly hooked.I felt kind of weird being a male JEM fan,but I consoled myself with the fact that I only gave the cartoon my patronage, and NOT the dolls! But I digress. GOD BLESS RHINO!!!! Season 1+2 are here in all thier big-haired glory! Enjoy JEM from her humble origins to her maturity as a pop-goddess and role model for kids of all ages and genders! This is a solid essential for children of the 80's,or any fan of quality animation with quirky storytelling, memorable characters,and (of course) those awesome mini pop anthems that gave the show it's aura of individuality. Good for young children,as it is replete with wholesome values and the triumph of purity and right over the forces of malicious mischief.(By the way:the MISFITS ROCK!!!) The animation itself is a bit rocky at times and primitive by today's manga-obsessed purists. But this can easily be forgiven due to the show's out-and-out ability to enthrall and stand the test of time despite its dated look and feel. HEY RHINO:CAN'T WAIT FOR SEASONS 3-4!!! I feel those are the best episodes, as the show really matured story-wise,and even more unforgettable characters were introduced! Hope this was helpful!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Jem - The Complete 1st & 2nd Seasons (1985)

Click here for more information about Jem - The Complete 1st & 2nd Seasons (1985)

Read More...

The Complete Collection of Sweatin' to the Oldies (2008) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Think "Aerobics for Dummies." Richard gets you off the couch and inspires you like no one else can. This workout is truly fun. The live band is great, and such a refreshing change from the recorded 'sound-alike' tracks that are so commonplace today. He uses a spectrum of people as cast members, from those who are aerobics teachers to those just 'getting started.' The routines are easy to follow, and not too strenuous for those who are trying to lose weight and get into shape.
The routines get progressively difficult through the series (Sweatin' 1, 2, 3, 4), so buy the whole set. It's a great price, and will provide with you with that jump start to fitness!

Click Here to see more reviews about: The Complete Collection of Sweatin' to the Oldies (2008)

The Complete Collection of Sweatin' to the Oldies presents all 4 of Richard Simmons' original Sweatin' to the Oldies workouts on DVD plus Richard's brand new show, Love Yourself and Win as a bonus DVD. You'll get forty-one exercise routines set to forty-one rock 'n' roll classics like: It's My Party, Big Girls Don't Cry, Gimme Some Lovin', Oh, Pretty Woman, and more. This 20th Anniversary edition also includes 2 hours of brand new, exclusive bonus material featuring an interview with Richard, incredible success stories from his students, and more.

Click here for more information about The Complete Collection of Sweatin' to the Oldies (2008)

Read More...

Jem and the Holograms: The Truly Outrageous Complete Series Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)What makes this cartoon so different from the many others is the intricacy of the series, the show uses the characters as the central driving point in contrast to the majority of other cartoons that simply use them as a vehicle for mindless action. The reason for this is most likely the fact that the show was aimed at girls and as such random combat isn't appealing however, characters , relationships, and inner conflicts are. Jem features episodes that are both fun and exciting examples of such are "The Battle of the Bands", "One Jem to Many", and "The Fan" while there are also episodes that cause the show to transcend your everyday cartoon such as "Scandal", "Father's Day", "Riot's Hope", "A Father Should Be", and of course the wonderful back story episode "Out of the Past". The more powerful episodes feature complex themes such as the death of a parent, personal secrets, conflict among friends, and family strife. It's the mix of fun and depth that really make this such a wonderful show to watch, especially as an adult when you can really appreciate the themes.
Jem features three music videos spaced evenly throughout each episode breaking up the action nicely. The 80's songs are catchy and the videos fun. The show features talented voice over artists like Britta Phillips (singing voice of Jem), Samantha Newark (Voice of Jem/Jerrica), and Charlie Adler (Eric Raymond). Most characters are well thought out with real depth to their personality that is expanded upon throughout the series with well written and delivered dialog. The basic plots usually involve the rival band the Misfits that attempt to thwart Jem's plans out of jealously or Eric Raymond's goal of regaining control of Jerrica's business. Eric Raymond is noteworthy as a main antagonist as he uses manipulation, money, and thugs instead of "magical powerss" like most other cartoon villains, this brings a sense of reality that you don't often receive in a cartoon. Near the end of the series Eric Raymond becomes so ruthless in his ways that it reaches a point of utter cruelty you forget you are watching a children's cartoon. The show features positive messages throughout involving friendship, family, loyalty, and generally doing right, these values are in stark contrast to modern cartoons which feature no real consequences or purpose for the adventures that occur and one dimensional good characters with no flaws. Jerrica Benton(Jem) runs a foster home for girls that is funded entirely by her music company and it's primary act Jem and the Holograms, this noble undertaking gives real consequence to the struggles that occur and provides a sense of realism to the show. The struggles often involve Jerrica potentially losing her business which in turn would destroy her charity work, while at the same time she deals with an emotionally draining love triangle due to her dual identity as Jem that involves her boyfriend Rio.
While Jem has a few bad episodes, usually featuring forced or unoriginal stories, most are lighthearted and fun. If you have a cynical attitude such that you can't stomach positives messages without finding them "campy" or if you prefer to nitpick 1980's children's cartoons for plot holes (ex. why aren't the villains in jail for assault) then you won't likely enjoy this show and you should find the nearest theater showing "Transformers 5". Jem has wonderful characters, catchy 80's songs, and an interesting premise. A great deal of effort was put into character development allowing the viewer to get absorbed into the series following the struggles of the characters until the very end. You might find yourself enjoying a lighthearted episode only to be saddened by an unexpectedly emotional one that follows. Jem isn't political, sexual, violent, or negative but is able to be entertaining none the less. The writers of the show push Jem beyond your normal children's cartoon making it quite emotionally and thematically complex and worth watching from beginning to end.
Shout! Factory put a great of effort into the quality of the set with wonderful artwork, bonus features, and attention to detail such as the multicolored DVDs that look like records. The set is a perfect addition to any collection of quality TV shows.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Jem and the Holograms: The Truly Outrageous Complete Series

Click here for more information about Jem and the Holograms: The Truly Outrageous Complete Series

Read More...