Synopsis
When I was reviewing Season One of Martin, I was actually on a business trip in New Jersey, fondly recalling the early ‘90s and the huge popularity of the show that bore comedian Martin Lawrence’s name. Since that time, I’m no longer going to New Jersey on business, I’m working better hours, and a movie with Lawrence called Wild Hogs came out. It grossed over $150 million, and starred him, John Travolta and Tim Allen as aging adults who do the Easy Rider road trip. The only thi…g I really have to say about this is that I’m shocked and disappointed in you people, and I hope you never let this type of thing happen in American cinema again.
For those unfamiliar with the show, allow me to sum up the main group of characters; Martin tells the story of Martin Payne (Lawrence), a successful host of an urban radio station program in Detroit. His girlfriend is Gina (Tisha Campbell, Boomerang), whose best friend Pam (Tichina Arnold, Everybody Hates Chris) disapproves of him. And Martin’s boys, the guys who will always have his back are Cole (Carl Anthony Payne, The Cosby Show) and Tommy (Thomas Mikal Ford, Q & A), who bumble around a bit, but their loyalty is unquestioned.
Not too much has happened storywise since Season One, the basic structure remains where Martin usually gets in trouble with Gina and has to go above and beyond the call to redeem himself, since he “knows everything there is to know about women,” yuks are to naturally follow. So it’s really nothing more than a basic sitcom format involved here, but the way the lines are delivered is done with mighty gusto and aplomb, and it makes things seem a little bit fresh, even if we’re talking about the second season. And as a result of the first season’s success, more stars came out for Season Two, among them were John Witherspoon (Friday), Tommy Davidson (In Living Color), along with musical guests Brian McKnight, Jodeci and Snoop Dogg (wow, it really was the ‘90s!).
Audio
The stereo sound mixes that accompanied Season One return for Season Two, and everything sounds find without any real noticeable up or downturn in quality. It’s perfectly innocuous TV sound once again.
Video
Just like Season One, it’s full frame love and attention for an early ‘90s show. Nothing’s really changed from the last Season, everything looks fine.
Special Features
A bit of a bummer here, as there’s nary an extra on Season Two. What, Lawrence couldn’t tear himself away from Wild Hogs 2 to pitch in a commentary or something?
Closing Thoughts
Those of you who bought Season One will probably want to buy Season Two of Martin, but as a helpful word of caution, not too much has changed from the first season, and at least THAT ONE had participation in the extras from Lawrence. You might want to skip this one, and those who might be new to the show should also start with Season One, for that matter.
