Bad Monkey

I am a huge fan of Carl Hiaasen's novels. This serialized version of Bad Monkey, which I reread not too long ago, is very well done. The few changes I noted in passing were logical and made the tv version better than it would have been. I would give the casting and photography high ratings. I'm not particularly a fan of Vince Vaughn, but I think he does well in this show. I like the narrator part, too.

I didn't see Natalie Martinez's name so it was great surprize to recognize her in this. I first saw her in a thing called "Under the Dome", not a very good series. Her performance in "Kingdom" was remarkable. She's good in this one, too.

I hope someone, Apple or not, takes some of Hiaasen's numerous other works for tv or cinema. "Strip Tease" was a pretty good movie as far as I recall. I'm usually not impressed with Apple's tv output, but this one hits the mark!

I love Carl Hiaasen's writing, particularly the Andrew Yancy novels. I'm also a fan of Bill Lawrence. To an extent. Scrubs could be grating, Ted Lasso meandered once he left, Shrinking is... I don't know.

But as far as the first two episodes go, they've nailed the tone of the book and the casting is really good. I never would've picked Vince Vaughn as Yancy, but he's perfect. The world weariness, the sardonic self loathing, it's all there.

You can tell that Lawrence is a huge Hiaasen fan and he's been thinking about this for a while. It's been a few years since I read the book but I like the additions that have been made to pad the story out. Again, I'm basing this off two episodes. I really hope this series is successful and we get a Razor Girl adaptation.

And I think the narration, sort of a lackadaisical Floridian version of Sam Elliot in Big Lebowski. It keeps things wry and offbeat. The only issue I have so far, and maybe just because I know the eventual outcome, is the big reveal in the book works because there isn't a visual element involved and you've been too distracted to think that hard about it. I would be surprised if most people didn't guess what's going on right away. But boy, what a fun beautiful time.

I like it. Hopefully Vince Vaughn will not turn out to be an alien!

First things first, the opening credits are terrific. The soundtrack is excellent. The writing and atmosphere remind me of Elmore Leonard's 'Rum Punch.' It feels like it was custom tailored for Vince Vaughn who is terrific in the lead role. My only nitpick is Vince should lose the dye job and look his age.

The supporting cast is interesting and eclectic, and other than John Ortiz, essentially unknown to me. Tom Nowicki does a nice job with the rum-soaked narration.

It will be interesting to see if the series can maintain its great start because Apple+ does not have a good track record with original series. But, I'm rooting for Vince!

Bad Monkey is a perfect summer watch with its gorgeous Florida scenery, cast of characters you just want to succeed, and others are fun to cheer against. The series is playful, fun, with animated thrills, keeping you wanting more. The dialog sharp, with each and every actor's performance and dialog as colorful as Florida itself.

Vince Vaughn plays suspended Detective Yancy, and is at his best. Mouthy, armed with quick witted one liners infuriating fellow characters, yet for me endearing + entertaining and laugh out loud funny. I'm rooting for you Yancy!

Only 2 episodes released so far. I'm obsessed and excited for more.

Someone decided to remake Fletch, and they actually did a pretty good job. It's a fun ride with a quirky mix of crime, comedy, and the bizarre that keeps you entertained from start to finish. Vince Vaughn nails the laid-back, wisecracking lead, and the Florida setting adds a nice touch of sun-soaked weirdness. It's not something I'd rush to rewatch, but it definitely makes for a solid night in front of the TV. And let's just say the voodoo lady might haunt your dreams in ways you didn't expect. Overall, it's a decent watch if you're in the mood for something offbeat and just a little twisted...