Watch John From Cincinnati

John From Cincinnati is a drama television series that aired on the premium cable network, HBO, in 2007. It was created by David Milch, who also worked on the critically acclaimed show, Deadwood. The series follows a dysfunctional surfing family, the Yosts, who live in Imperial Beach, a seaside town in Southern California. Their lives are turned upside down when a strange and mystical stranger named John arrives in town.

The show stars Bruce Greenwood as Mitch Yost, a legendary surfer who has retired after a serious injury. He lives with his wife Cissy, played by Rebecca De Mornay, and his son Butchie, played by Brian Van Holt. Butchie is a former surfing prodigy who has fallen into a life of drug addiction and crime. The family is in turmoil, and John's arrival only adds to the chaos.

John, played by Austin Nichols, is an enigmatic figure who appears to have otherworldly abilities. He can heal people and communicate with the dead. His presence in Imperial Beach prompts the Yost family to take a hard look at their lives and confront their demons.

The show also features a supporting cast of colorful characters who are all connected to the Yost family in one way or another. There is Bill, played by Ed O'Neill, a retired cop who is investigating a murder case that may involve Butchie. There is Kai, played by Keala Kennelly, a surfer who befriends Mitch and tries to help him through his struggles. There is also Barry "Baron" Barlow, played by Matt Winston, a surf commentator and former rival of Mitch.

John From Cincinnati is a surreal and unconventional show that defies easy categorization. It was marketed as a surfing drama, but it is much more than that. The show delves into themes of family, addiction, spirituality, and the nature of reality itself. It is a deeply philosophical show that poses many questions without providing easy answers.

One of the most notable aspects of John From Cincinnati is its use of language. The show's dialogue is often cryptic and poetic, with characters speaking in metaphorical and riddle-like ways. This can be frustrating for some viewers who prefer more straightforward storytelling, but it is also part of the show's charm. It gives the show a dreamlike quality and makes it feel like you are watching something truly unique.

Another standout aspect of the show is its visuals. The show was shot on location in Imperial Beach and has a gritty, documentary-style look to it. The surfing scenes are particularly stunning, with the camera capturing the waves in all their glory. The show also incorporates animation and surreal imagery at times, further adding to its unconventional style.

While John From Cincinnati was critically acclaimed, it was not a commercial success. Its strange storytelling style and unconventional characters may have turned off some viewers. Additionally, the show was cancelled after one season, leaving many questions unanswered. Despite this, the show has gained a cult following over the years and is considered by many to be a hidden gem of television.

In conclusion, John From Cincinnati is a unique and surreal television series that defies easy categorization. It follows a dysfunctional surfing family in Southern California and their encounters with a mystical stranger named John. The show's use of cryptic language and unconventional storytelling can be challenging for some viewers, but it is part of the show's charm. Its stunning visuals and themes of family, addiction, and spirituality make it a must-watch for anyone interested in offbeat and thought-provoking television.

John From Cincinnati is a series that ran for 1 seasons (10 episodes) between June 10, 2007 and on HBO