Review- That 90’s Show

Title: That 90’s Show

Director: Laura Prepon

Starring: Kurtwood Smith, Debra Jo Rupp, Tommy Chong

Studio: Sunset Bronson Studios in Los Angeles 

Release date: January 19, 2023

Available: Netflix

That 90’s Show is definitely nostalgic for the kids who grew up watching Red Forman (Kurkwood Smith) embarrass Eric Forman (his son on the show, Topher Grace). There’s so many good things that I was excited to see as an add on from the original, That 70’s Show. On the other hand, it seemed to be a bit more obviously staged in my opinion because it wasn’t terrible, but it’s not as good as the original. I had a mutual liking towards the show. 

Danny Masterson (Hyde) did not attend to be casted in That 90’s Show because in his real life, he did in fact face some legal trouble. Obviously it won’t be as good as the original, but the newer characters were stiff- and more clear at acting- meaning it was obvious that they were acting and not feeling what they’re saying. On the original, it was flowey, and they were spot on. 

The newer cast stammers, isn’t with the program, and I had second hand embarrassment. Callie Haverda (Leia Forman) was made to act dumb, and anxious throughout season 1. She has no confidence whatsoever. In the original, they just made decisions, ran with it, and had fun the whole time. For example, “Streaking” is the third episode of the first season, where the boys streaked in front of everyone. That was funny. But the fact Leia can’t make what’s right of her direction, it’s not as fun to be yelling at the screen “JUST DO IT!!” when she isn’t acting right.  Also, some of the newer cast outfits didn’t seem to be “90’s”. They wore things I’d wear in 2020 or 2023! It did not fit the 90’s aesthetic. 

There are some pros to my argument though. I loved seeing the original cast just show up here and there, making their own entrance. It’s nice to see that they’re all together still, and I’m glad to see how some of the couples turned out. 

Overall, I don’t love it, but it could have been way worse. In some parts it was funny, but nothing like the original cast. I wish they were more chill and went with the flow, rather than being so stiff.