After enjoying the film American Satan, seemingly this follow up or spinoff had some anticipation. Paradise City doesn't explain much after it left off from the film so for those who have not watched American Satan may be confused at certain things and the characters. The lead of Johnny Faust is the same actor but the major change is the character of Lily (now portrayed by Bella Thorne- the character almost feels entirely different). Perhaps they could have cast an unknown actress for the role of Lily.
A main problem with the show is it feels somewhat cluttered with many different subplots and an overload of characters. The first few episodes these characters were seemingly unconnected but eventually within the final three episodes we start getting a sense of connection and the reason as to why they were heavily featured. Mainly referring to Cameron Boyce's character. It was very clear in the final episode they had major plans for him in the follow up season but due to his real life death we doubt there will a second season.
Also there were many short scenes which jumps very quickly from scene to scene. They try to cram in everything into one episode. Perhaps they could have made each episode about an hour opposed to its 35 - 40 minute runtime. The final two episodes were very good but the finale felt like there were things unanswered, and it looked obvious they were going to explain things for the next season but it's been over three years and still no second season.
At times it felt like Johnny or his wife Gretchen were supporting roles though their storylines were the most prominent. Some unnecessary characters which dragged episodes down such as the other bands (Over it all) along with the other struggling rap artist Fritz. Also the band members besides Johnny and Lily were unlikeable and didn't exactly have much to do except be there and nag on Johnny. The trio of them weren't great, specifically the two British acts.
For instance it wasn't too clear who exactly were the characters of Gabriel and Capricorn. Were we to believe Gabriel was a guardian angel figure (good person) while Capricorn was more so Satan (bad person). We wonder as to why none of the main characters in the end questioned as to who they were and why they were seemingly everywhere. Assumed Gretchen was going to do so but nothing happened. The very last scene showed her (Capricorn) taking the photograph of the entire group with a very strange grin.
Overall this tv series should be viewed after watching the film American Satan. The film is a lot more raw, supernatural, unhinged and doesn't exactly hold back. It's better because there's more focus on the main plot and it isn't cluttered with supporting characters. Paradise City is solid but definitely feels quite tamer, more drama based realistic which was expected. Somewhat disappointing but given it's only 8 episodes it is relatively quick to binge the entire season all at once.
A main problem with the show is it feels somewhat cluttered with many different subplots and an overload of characters. The first few episodes these characters were seemingly unconnected but eventually within the final three episodes we start getting a sense of connection and the reason as to why they were heavily featured. Mainly referring to Cameron Boyce's character. It was very clear in the final episode they had major plans for him in the follow up season but due to his real life death we doubt there will a second season.
Also there were many short scenes which jumps very quickly from scene to scene. They try to cram in everything into one episode. Perhaps they could have made each episode about an hour opposed to its 35 - 40 minute runtime. The final two episodes were very good but the finale felt like there were things unanswered, and it looked obvious they were going to explain things for the next season but it's been over three years and still no second season.
At times it felt like Johnny or his wife Gretchen were supporting roles though their storylines were the most prominent. Some unnecessary characters which dragged episodes down such as the other bands (Over it all) along with the other struggling rap artist Fritz. Also the band members besides Johnny and Lily were unlikeable and didn't exactly have much to do except be there and nag on Johnny. The trio of them weren't great, specifically the two British acts.
For instance it wasn't too clear who exactly were the characters of Gabriel and Capricorn. Were we to believe Gabriel was a guardian angel figure (good person) while Capricorn was more so Satan (bad person). We wonder as to why none of the main characters in the end questioned as to who they were and why they were seemingly everywhere. Assumed Gretchen was going to do so but nothing happened. The very last scene showed her (Capricorn) taking the photograph of the entire group with a very strange grin.
Overall this tv series should be viewed after watching the film American Satan. The film is a lot more raw, supernatural, unhinged and doesn't exactly hold back. It's better because there's more focus on the main plot and it isn't cluttered with supporting characters. Paradise City is solid but definitely feels quite tamer, more drama based realistic which was expected. Somewhat disappointing but given it's only 8 episodes it is relatively quick to binge the entire season all at once.