#ck rewatch

I just rewatched the very first CK episode and what a delight it still is. I was a little worried that the first season seemed good only in comparison with the latest one but no. At least the pilot is actually pretty awesome. I only watched tKK for the first time because I wanted to check out CK. And I was surprised at how fast the series turned Johnny into a sympathetic character. He was so scary in the movie. Also not only the writing used to be more realistic but the way the series was shot too. Johnny’s apartment wasn’t lit like a sitcom. The lighting in general was moodier. Not that I don't like the season 4 AV epic lighting but the show used to feel more personal with less budget. Plus there were lots of hand-held camera shots. Johnny’s socio-economic situation was part of his character and not just a decoration. Everything was pretty small scale story wise too and it worked so well. There’s this cool contrast between Johnny’s more realistically portrayed everyday life and how Daniel is at first shown only on the billboard and in the commercials. Even though Daniel’s behaviour is mostly nice and friendly in the episode it gives the audience a nudge towards the underdog. Daniel in general seems to be quite genuine about being over their rivalry at this point. I didn’t remember that his animosity was in fact mostly towards Cobra Kai and not Johnny specifically. Which is funny considering how the series is seemingly going to end. So it is a really well made episode. The writing is good and it has a look of a very personal, character driven drama with comedic elements. I know the show will eventually lean more into comedy and action but I like these less stakes dramatic elements a lot.

if you miss queerbaiting and homophobic television you simply must watch cobra kai

if pat morita was still here, mr. miyagi would resolve this whole thing in a day