11.22.63

It would be difficult to review 11.22.63 without spoiling it at every turn, so I won't. Instead, let me just say then that it has an excellent pedigree - a Stephen King novel - is well written and well acted. I'm a crusty oldish (emphasis on ish) curmudgeon and an amateur writer myself who thinks he has seen everything and is beyond every surprise and every tear jerk. Well, I was wrong. Once my teenage son suggested it to me, this series grabbed me by the throat, first minute, and never let go. Every cliché applies including "riveting" and "edge of seat." The bottom line though is that it is interesting, exciting and engrossing. Watch it. Now.

I am a fan of the book 11.22.63, and I was pretty excited to hear about an adaptation being made into a mini-series. My excitement only continued to grow when I learned that JJ Abrams and James Franco were attached. That being said, when I sat down to watch it, I had some high hopes going in. At first, my hopes were kind of dwindled. Upon starting the show, I thought that maybe Franco was not the best choice to play Jake Epping. As I continued watching, I noticed that it wasn't Franco, but rather that the show itself felt rushed during the beginning. However, to my viewing pleasure, once Franco totally commits to going back to the 60s (and he shaves that ridiculous goatee) the show really starts to come together. I guess the writers were just not as focused on the beginning of the show because it is such a good turnaround when he gets into the 60s (the beginning is not awful, just not great like the latter half). Also, the show does not follow the book 100% which is fine by me. I like when shows/movies try to create there own ideas, but still stay true to the basics of the book. Without spoiling the show for anyone, I believe 11.22.63 is going to be a great show when it is all said and done. Besides the beginning, Franco does a fantastic job as Epping as he showcases his dramatic (with comedy thrown in) work by dealing with the emotions of a present day guy traveling back to the 60s. Franco was the right choice for Epping! Overall, the show kept me thoroughly entertained for an hour and twenty minutes. So, if you can sit through about 10 minutes of a rushed plot, then I would definitely recommend giving this show a shot. King, Abrams, and Franco... How could it go wrong?!

Wow. I never thought i could enjoy this TV show very much. The cast were perfect and believe me, last episode will touch your heart.

A really wonderful series, I loved every minute of it. When I read the plot I was scared I would get confused, but it was just perfect. I wish it wasn't just a mini series

It has been a long time I have seen James Franco look so promising in a role. Last time when I saw him so good was in 127 Hours. He has done complete justice to the character in the premiere of this show and seems to be in his comfort zone.

As for the show, it does not waste any time to get into action. Franco plays role of Jake Epping, a High School Teacher, who unwillingly has to take up the task of traveling to the past and avoid assassination of JFK. Show is fast paced and keeps you engrossed all the time. You just keep wondering how the story will unfold and will Jake be able to prevent the assassination.

For the premiere, you do not see much of the acting of others as it revolves only around Franco and Cooper. But they both take you to a ride which should not end. Episode was 80mins long but I did not realize when the time flew by. Direction and screenplay is of high standards along with story which is very well thought of.

I personally recommend you to watch the show and guarantee that you will not be disappointed.