I grew up watching The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and still love it to this day. Everyone knows by now what it's about, it's about a street kid from Philadelphia that moves to Bel-Air to live with his rich Uncle, Aunt, cousins and their butler. I watched it so much that I still know every line of the theme song. Is a classic sitcom from the 90's. I even still watch it when it's on now. I know they just did a reboot of the series but you can't reboot a classic like this and expect it to even be half as good. The entire cast is hilarious which is led by a very young Will Smith. It's easily one of the best sitcoms from the 90's. It's one of those shows where you can watch it as much as you want and it's still funny. I'll always love this show!
168 Reviews
Still Funny Today!
Supermanfan-1318 May 2023
If you grew up in the 90's then you were a fan of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air! Even if you didn't, you are still probably a fan because it's just a flat out funny show. This is where Will Smith started his career, no one knew at the time he would become the actor he is today but most saw a bright future. Now, he lost his mind at the Oscars when he slapped Chris Rock and he will always be remembered for that but that still doesn't take away from the fact that he's had a great career and this was the start. I still laugh when I watch the reruns on tv just as much as I did when I was a kid watching it.
This is the Story All About How...
JayWolfgramm24 February 2023
I primarily know "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" in its long life of reruns on "Nick at Nite" and TBS. I didn't necessarily watch the show in order from beginning to end. But whenever the show was on, I would stop changing channels and have a good time watching. I won't bother giving a synopsis of the show's premise because the intro to the show does a better job than I ever could. Not only does it give you the set up, it also gives you a good idea of the tone of the show you're going to watch. It is both childishly innocent, but mature and never feels like it is talking down to the audience.
The show can be very funny and heartwarming at times. It just has the typical shortcoming of shows of this time, it does overstay its welcome. It is great for the cable time period, where you would watch an episode and then another show would come on. And that is the way the show was made, good episodic random distraction for the day. But trying to sit down and watch the show from beginning to end, the jokes and characters do wear thin.
There are certain episodes where the show gets more serious like the highly rated "Papa's got a Brand-new Excuse", that I highly recommend. It is a mixed bag and begins to get stale towards the end. But there are some good ones in there that definitely make the show worth watching. Just sit right there, and find out how he became the prince of the town of Bel-Air.
The show can be very funny and heartwarming at times. It just has the typical shortcoming of shows of this time, it does overstay its welcome. It is great for the cable time period, where you would watch an episode and then another show would come on. And that is the way the show was made, good episodic random distraction for the day. But trying to sit down and watch the show from beginning to end, the jokes and characters do wear thin.
There are certain episodes where the show gets more serious like the highly rated "Papa's got a Brand-new Excuse", that I highly recommend. It is a mixed bag and begins to get stale towards the end. But there are some good ones in there that definitely make the show worth watching. Just sit right there, and find out how he became the prince of the town of Bel-Air.
My all-time favourite TV series
quixoboy10 September 2003
Of all the shows, I believe that "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" is the one with which I can most identify with, since I have surely seen every single episode at least a dozen times - and yet it STILL never gets tired! I cannot get sick of this show, and it's making me a bit disturbed! Just what is it that makes this show so continually appealing, even around seven years since its final episode? I'm not sure...it's certainly not just one element. Every part of this show is magic: the wonderful acting from all involved; the witty (and often painfully hysterical) one-liners and banter between characters; the hip, cool atmosphere; the music...it all perfectly fits into what has to be one of the most remarkable and well-made sitcoms of the '90s.
I find myself shocked sometimes at the number of people who have totally forgotten about this show. Granted, it DID end in 1996, and obviously a lot has happened since then (most notably the skyrocketing music & film career of a certain lead star), but I mean, come on! This show is an undisputed classic! Who can forget the wild, crazy, and just plain amusing adventures we've had with Will Smith and the Banks family?
There were times when I was just addicted to this show, I remember...it was a while back when the episodes were running in syndication every evening on TBS SuperStation...I can't believe how this show can always manage to crack me up. It's incredible. I've grown to love all these characters so much, and even now, I still wouldn't pass up an opportunity to watch yet another priceless rerun.
I agree, though, that yes, a lot of the late, LATE episodes (around the second-last and final season) had their fair share of groans, and showed some glaring signs of tedium, but thankfully, the overwhelming positive qualities of the series tower over such minor flaws - including the mysterious re-casting of Aunt Vivian's role from Janet Hubert-Whitten to Daphne Maxwell Reid; the increasingly old-hat shtick of using the same stock footage whenever Jazz gets thrown out of the Banks residence for the umpteenth time; the cursed addition of a new cast member - little Nicky Banks (Ross Bagley), etc....
It's not an entirely perfect show, certainly (but then - what show is?), and it has had its fair share of ups and downs in its moderately impressive run of six years. However, when all is said and done, in the end, this show can proudly stand on its own as a pop culture treasure. It has evolved from what seemed initially to be an awkward, cheesy, quaint little '80s/'90s Cosby rip-off to a mature, slick, and fabulously written/produced/directed program. Pure gold is what this show is.
A truly underrated, and always entertaining, gem. "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" is one for the ages.
I find myself shocked sometimes at the number of people who have totally forgotten about this show. Granted, it DID end in 1996, and obviously a lot has happened since then (most notably the skyrocketing music & film career of a certain lead star), but I mean, come on! This show is an undisputed classic! Who can forget the wild, crazy, and just plain amusing adventures we've had with Will Smith and the Banks family?
There were times when I was just addicted to this show, I remember...it was a while back when the episodes were running in syndication every evening on TBS SuperStation...I can't believe how this show can always manage to crack me up. It's incredible. I've grown to love all these characters so much, and even now, I still wouldn't pass up an opportunity to watch yet another priceless rerun.
I agree, though, that yes, a lot of the late, LATE episodes (around the second-last and final season) had their fair share of groans, and showed some glaring signs of tedium, but thankfully, the overwhelming positive qualities of the series tower over such minor flaws - including the mysterious re-casting of Aunt Vivian's role from Janet Hubert-Whitten to Daphne Maxwell Reid; the increasingly old-hat shtick of using the same stock footage whenever Jazz gets thrown out of the Banks residence for the umpteenth time; the cursed addition of a new cast member - little Nicky Banks (Ross Bagley), etc....
It's not an entirely perfect show, certainly (but then - what show is?), and it has had its fair share of ups and downs in its moderately impressive run of six years. However, when all is said and done, in the end, this show can proudly stand on its own as a pop culture treasure. It has evolved from what seemed initially to be an awkward, cheesy, quaint little '80s/'90s Cosby rip-off to a mature, slick, and fabulously written/produced/directed program. Pure gold is what this show is.
A truly underrated, and always entertaining, gem. "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" is one for the ages.
Hilarious comedy that everyone can enjoy
vince20000200021 August 2007
This show is my favourite show on nick@nite. It's the only TV show that really makes me laugh. Of coarse that's only one great aspect of the show's magical touch of comedy. The acting is great and the show's characters each have their own individual and comical personality that the viewer may relate too. The storyline of the series is quite interesting. A city boy, Will Smith who was born and raised in West Philadelphia was sent to live with his rich aunt and uncle in Bel-Air.
The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air is a show you'll never get tired of. The attitudes of each character only builds up the humour. Carlton, the geek who thinks so highly of himself. Hilary, the stuck up brat. Can't forget Geoffrey the butler with the wise Aleck attitude and many more.
All in all, The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air is great fun and laughs for the whole family
The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air is a show you'll never get tired of. The attitudes of each character only builds up the humour. Carlton, the geek who thinks so highly of himself. Hilary, the stuck up brat. Can't forget Geoffrey the butler with the wise Aleck attitude and many more.
All in all, The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air is great fun and laughs for the whole family
One of the best sitcoms from the 90's
ComedyFan20104 May 2018
It is already so long ago. Now Will Smith is the same age as uncle Phil was at the end of the show. And James Avery who portrayed Philip Banks is unfortunately dead. But the show itself hasn't lost it's humor and charm. I enjoyed it to the fullest rewatching it now, and actually watching it for the first time from beginning to the end.
While it was Will Smith who became the most famous after, I would say it were the other characters who made the show as wonderful as it is.
James Avery as uncle Phil was one of my favorites. It was amazing acting where he brought us both humor and emotions. I loved to see this man taking care of his nephew as his own son, help him to become a man and build such an amazing connection with him. This was all portrayed greatly. One of the reasons I would not want to see a reboot of this show is because it will never be the same without him. Alfonso Ribeiro as Carlton was also delightful. So much great comedy with this extraordinary personality and his trademark dancing. Definitely unforgettable. Joseph Marcell was an amazing Geoffrey. All this wit and sarcasm made him one of the best on the show. Karyn Parsons was a great Hilary. She made this character who was very shallow and snobby also very likable. Those are the ones who gave me the most laughter. The rest were also great addition. Vivian and Ashley were just very ordinary people, but the acting was superb.
Pretty much every story is fun and original. Even the jokes that get repeated (Carlton's height, Phil's weight etc.) don't seem to be a problem and make it look repeatable. And watching Jazz being thrown out of the house was always great fun.
Part of me wishes there were more seasons, but I am also happy that it ended at it's peak so it was great from the beginning to the end. I would tell young people who were born too late and missed it to watch it, it is still hilarious.
While it was Will Smith who became the most famous after, I would say it were the other characters who made the show as wonderful as it is.
James Avery as uncle Phil was one of my favorites. It was amazing acting where he brought us both humor and emotions. I loved to see this man taking care of his nephew as his own son, help him to become a man and build such an amazing connection with him. This was all portrayed greatly. One of the reasons I would not want to see a reboot of this show is because it will never be the same without him. Alfonso Ribeiro as Carlton was also delightful. So much great comedy with this extraordinary personality and his trademark dancing. Definitely unforgettable. Joseph Marcell was an amazing Geoffrey. All this wit and sarcasm made him one of the best on the show. Karyn Parsons was a great Hilary. She made this character who was very shallow and snobby also very likable. Those are the ones who gave me the most laughter. The rest were also great addition. Vivian and Ashley were just very ordinary people, but the acting was superb.
Pretty much every story is fun and original. Even the jokes that get repeated (Carlton's height, Phil's weight etc.) don't seem to be a problem and make it look repeatable. And watching Jazz being thrown out of the house was always great fun.
Part of me wishes there were more seasons, but I am also happy that it ended at it's peak so it was great from the beginning to the end. I would tell young people who were born too late and missed it to watch it, it is still hilarious.
First-time experience - well worth it!
smetin4 February 2017
OK, so I never watched this as a kid growing up. I was into manga, nickelodeon, Disney etc. However, now I am 25 i decided to go through all the TV shows I missed whilst growing up and this was one of them. Boy oh boy, I was not disappointed. Despite the last show being run over 20 years ago, this comedy is well worth the watch. Will Smith is obviously the star, but the performances by every single person in the Banks family was memorable. Some episodes were there just for the laughs, some were slower and some had serious learning reflections. The latter is what made this show stand out. Going from an episode that made me laugh to one with a serious message of gun control or racism sets this show apart from the majority of sitcoms. It was, well, a fresh experience.
One of the few gripes I had was that some of the jokes were repeated many, many times. It did start to grate on me when Will would say "You know what I'm sayyyyyiiinnnngggg?" in that characteristic tone. The other thing that slightly annoyed me was the re-casting of Vivian. I understand why it happened, but I just do not think the replacement was anywhere near as good.
Other than these minor points, I thoroughly enjoyed watching this show from S01E01 to S06E24. If you have not watched this show before, you should. If you have seen this show before, you probably should watch it again.
One of the few gripes I had was that some of the jokes were repeated many, many times. It did start to grate on me when Will would say "You know what I'm sayyyyyiiinnnngggg?" in that characteristic tone. The other thing that slightly annoyed me was the re-casting of Vivian. I understand why it happened, but I just do not think the replacement was anywhere near as good.
Other than these minor points, I thoroughly enjoyed watching this show from S01E01 to S06E24. If you have not watched this show before, you should. If you have seen this show before, you probably should watch it again.
A Review Of How I Enjoyed My Time Watching Bel Air.
BrnzReviews24 January 2022
Now this is the review of how i enjoyed my time watching bel air. What i loved about this was the originality behind literally everything, the cast were great at adapting to different scenes and making our childhoods awesome, the stories were great and hilarious. The relationship between Will & Uncle Phil really is a funny one, i just loved these two working together it really was an experience of stitches and aching from laughter. I used to rush home from.school to watch this on VIVA, the good ole days.
If you somehow haven't caught this yet I'd highly recommend it, start to finish!
If you somehow haven't caught this yet I'd highly recommend it, start to finish!
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
jboothmillard27 April 2005
Warning: Spoilers
This is one of those pretty good American sitcoms with a good actor as the main star of the series. Before he became famous in Independence Day and Men in Black, actor and rapper Golden Globe nominated Will Smith spent his time in this sitcom basically about him, the Fresh Prince. He lives with his Uncle Phil Banks (James Avery), his Aunt Vivian Banks (Janet Hubert-Whitten), his silly cousin Carlton Banks (Alfonso Ribeiro), his showoff cousin Hilary Banks (Karyn Parsons), the cute young cousin Ashley Banks (Tatyana Ali) and the amusing butler Geoffrey (Joseph Marcell). Throughout the show we have misunderstandings, not very successful birthdays, dinners, romances, cute kids and of course, the cool Will Smith being cool and funny at the same time. It was nominated the Emmy for Outstanding Individual Achievement in Lighting Direction (Electronic) for a Comedy Series. Very good!
Simply the best show on television
texrangers311 February 2008
If they still made sitcoms like 'The Fresh Prince' I would probably be glued in front of my television every night. Thankfully they don't, because I have a hard time turning the channel when Will and the Banks family are on. This is quite simply the best sitcom in the history of television. Yes, it is better than Seinfeld. It simply covers some serious elements of life, yet always makes you laugh out loud. Will Smith is brilliant and it is obvious what Hollywood saw in him that made him into such a successful movie star. The biggest compliment I can give this show is that it is absolutely timeless and I will continue to watch rerun episodes, because it is just that good.
Will Smith Acting Career Began
shelbythuylinh10 December 2021
Warning: Spoilers
As he got great over time. And that his character a Philly young man that got into some trouble. And that his street smart aleck character goes to LA to live in Bel Air.
The late James Avery was the perfect straight man to his antics of his nephew and Janet Hubert Whitten and later Daphene Maxwell Reid as his wife.
As that he hung out with their family including Carlton the arrogant and preppie Alfonso Ribero who is just as funny as Will. Among the others there.
Really we did not know how superstardom would begin with humble beginnings for Will Smith.
The late James Avery was the perfect straight man to his antics of his nephew and Janet Hubert Whitten and later Daphene Maxwell Reid as his wife.
As that he hung out with their family including Carlton the arrogant and preppie Alfonso Ribero who is just as funny as Will. Among the others there.
Really we did not know how superstardom would begin with humble beginnings for Will Smith.
Best comedy-show EVER!!!! believe me!
mkPaul3 June 2003
I have seen every single episode of this! It is so great! the whole family plays so good! They are all funny, Jazz too by the way! I still watch the episodes on BBC to tape them on video!
people who say the show is just about will are so not right! every character has several episodes where they are put in the picture. There a just a few less good episodes but most of them will make u rolling over the floor! :D :D :D :D D:
people who say the show is just about will are so not right! every character has several episodes where they are put in the picture. There a just a few less good episodes but most of them will make u rolling over the floor! :D :D :D :D D:
Good
manitobaman8119 August 2014
The setup: The Banks family, a respectable Californian family, take in a relative - Will Smith, a street-smart teenager from Philadelphia. The idea is to make him respectable, responsible and mature, but Will has got other plans...
The verdict: Passable '90s fun. I never laughed so hard in my life. Will's car is always getting into accidents on the way to California. After reading some of the negative reviews on here, I just have to say that some people really don't get it. It is very light-hearted and it isn't complex at all as all the characters struggle against a system that has perpetuated many falsehoods. Rerun time!
The verdict: Passable '90s fun. I never laughed so hard in my life. Will's car is always getting into accidents on the way to California. After reading some of the negative reviews on here, I just have to say that some people really don't get it. It is very light-hearted and it isn't complex at all as all the characters struggle against a system that has perpetuated many falsehoods. Rerun time!
Stop smoking people...the show sucked.
ph_sorin20 February 2021
Will Smith may have gotten better over the years, but in FPoBA he sucked.
Also, people calling FPoBA the best sitcom ever its...insane, to say the least. It was never the best if anything. In the 90's there was Seinfeld, enough said.
Now...30 years later, its just cringe, purely unwatchable.
Still fresh after all these years
dee.reid5 December 2005
I like to think of "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" as a memorable rap song from a time when it wasn't afraid to be creative or witty. Think of a song by Public Enemy, De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, or hell, even The Fresh Prince's duo with DJ Jazzy Jeff (who guest stars frequently as Jazz), as the two were known back in rap's Golden Age as DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince.
Of course, this show flourished during a time when rap was still good, and I can't help but make comparisons to the hip-hop community. There is no question that Will Smith is a born entertainer, and he got his break in stardom outside of hip-hop with "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." In it, Will Smith pretty much plays Will Smith (I bet creators Andy and Susan Borowitz had a lot of difficulty thinking up that name), a Philadelphia ghetto youth who gets shipped out by his mother to the posh excess of Bel-Air to live with relatives - The Banks.
Once out there, he finds rivalry with cousins - the preppy Carlton and airheaded would-be blonde Hilary Banks (Alfonso Ribiero and Karyn Parsons), young cousin Ashley (Tatyana M. Ali) emulates Will's hip-hop attitude, and Aunt Vivian (alternately played by actresses Janet Hubert-Whitten and Daphne Maxwell Reid) keeps husband and successful lawyer Uncle Phil's (James Avery) head cool when Will gets into trouble. To keep everything tidy and in order, their loyal, sarcastic British butler Geoffrey (Joseph Marcell) is there too.
It's still fresh after all these years. It never fails to stir up careful, thoughtful, moving, and intelligent laughs from the viewer and I'm surprised I avoided it for so long. (Why do I do this to myself all the time?)
The acting is cool and fresh by all, especially from Smith, and the ladies of the house, Karyn and Tatyana, are both pretty cute to look at too.
Of course, this show flourished during a time when rap was still good, and I can't help but make comparisons to the hip-hop community. There is no question that Will Smith is a born entertainer, and he got his break in stardom outside of hip-hop with "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." In it, Will Smith pretty much plays Will Smith (I bet creators Andy and Susan Borowitz had a lot of difficulty thinking up that name), a Philadelphia ghetto youth who gets shipped out by his mother to the posh excess of Bel-Air to live with relatives - The Banks.
Once out there, he finds rivalry with cousins - the preppy Carlton and airheaded would-be blonde Hilary Banks (Alfonso Ribiero and Karyn Parsons), young cousin Ashley (Tatyana M. Ali) emulates Will's hip-hop attitude, and Aunt Vivian (alternately played by actresses Janet Hubert-Whitten and Daphne Maxwell Reid) keeps husband and successful lawyer Uncle Phil's (James Avery) head cool when Will gets into trouble. To keep everything tidy and in order, their loyal, sarcastic British butler Geoffrey (Joseph Marcell) is there too.
It's still fresh after all these years. It never fails to stir up careful, thoughtful, moving, and intelligent laughs from the viewer and I'm surprised I avoided it for so long. (Why do I do this to myself all the time?)
The acting is cool and fresh by all, especially from Smith, and the ladies of the house, Karyn and Tatyana, are both pretty cute to look at too.
Best sitcom ever
adedoyin-118 October 2008
Best show ever. Me and my roommate catch this show every Nite on Nick at Nite.
Favorite episodes would have to be....
The one where Will and Carlton go to jail and they meet the convict who sings "Let My People Go"
All of those episodes with the EMT,firefighter, forest ranger guy who is slow and says crazy things.
The infamous episode where Viv decides to become a dancer again, love it! Love that dance sequence at the end.
The one where they go to the séance so Hilary can talk to Trevor after he passed away (Break the hex!).
The episode where Hillary is dating Will's professor and can't get over the mole (dum dum didday...hahaha)
The episode where Carlton and Hilary find out they are dating each other (Y'all two datin'?)
The episode where Will and Lisa's dad get in the plane crash...(momenemum, hahaha).
The episode they go on the Oprah show (wow, I can hardly remember the days when Oprah used to go through the aisles talking to her audience).
The episode Will and his girlfriend get stuck in the basement during the earthquake ("Here, here, here, here, here....."Going outta my mind, I thought she was fine, don't know if her body is hers..haha)
My goodness, I could go on and on, this was the best show they don't make sitcoms like this anymore!
Favorite episodes would have to be....
The one where Will and Carlton go to jail and they meet the convict who sings "Let My People Go"
All of those episodes with the EMT,firefighter, forest ranger guy who is slow and says crazy things.
The infamous episode where Viv decides to become a dancer again, love it! Love that dance sequence at the end.
The one where they go to the séance so Hilary can talk to Trevor after he passed away (Break the hex!).
The episode where Hillary is dating Will's professor and can't get over the mole (dum dum didday...hahaha)
The episode where Carlton and Hilary find out they are dating each other (Y'all two datin'?)
The episode where Will and Lisa's dad get in the plane crash...(momenemum, hahaha).
The episode they go on the Oprah show (wow, I can hardly remember the days when Oprah used to go through the aisles talking to her audience).
The episode Will and his girlfriend get stuck in the basement during the earthquake ("Here, here, here, here, here....."Going outta my mind, I thought she was fine, don't know if her body is hers..haha)
My goodness, I could go on and on, this was the best show they don't make sitcoms like this anymore!
Cool, Fun and Hip
moviesampink29 January 2008
This show is so enteraining and hip that anybody can watch it especially that Will Smith is the star of the show. He moves to Bell Air to live with his wealthy cousins and his Aunt Vivan and Uncle Phil. Karyn Parson is beautiful, wise, kinda smart, a lot of fun but a bit of a spoiled princess as Hilary, Alfanso is intelligent, cute and sweet as Carlton, James Avery is a talent as Uncle Phil, Janet Hubert is awesome, a great mom and wife and very funny, Geoffry is so full of scarcasm that he is just so funny and Tatyana Ali is such a good actress, she shines as the beautiful, smart, funny, sweet, gifted and talented as Ashley. I love this show, it's hilarious and anybody can relate to it and it's dentally a coming of age show for everybody. I give it a 10/10 rating.
One of the best shows of the 90's
aymericsapo22 February 2015
Warning: Spoilers
We all have different taste and it's a subjective matter.
I watched this show 3 or 4 times, and all i can say is that it's funny, full of jokes, good acting from all actors, and the story of each episode is typically simple, but all of them are filled with beautifully composed jokes, and sometimes it is a bit emotional.
The only thing in this show that you might not like is the fact that they changed one the main character(Vivian Bank) in season 3 due to problems between her and(Janet Hubert-Whitten) and Will Smith.
All being said , i highly recommend this show for people who want a good laugh.
I watched this show 3 or 4 times, and all i can say is that it's funny, full of jokes, good acting from all actors, and the story of each episode is typically simple, but all of them are filled with beautifully composed jokes, and sometimes it is a bit emotional.
The only thing in this show that you might not like is the fact that they changed one the main character(Vivian Bank) in season 3 due to problems between her and(Janet Hubert-Whitten) and Will Smith.
All being said , i highly recommend this show for people who want a good laugh.
Thank NBC for this show!
k-dhesi23 May 2009
It's only really one word to say about this once hit show. H-I-L-A-R-I-O-U-S. It will always be remembered, one of the funniest shows known to mankind, every episode is laugh out loud hilarious. It doesn't get better.
Great idea, a kid coming from the ghetto to live with his rich relatives. You know already your in for some fun. Will Smith only became famous thanks to this show, he shows how funny he can really be. The rest of the cast are pretty much flawless too, this show will always have you laughing with a hilarious script and a fun adventure every episode. Thank god for the creators of this show and a wonderful cast. Yes the show is very old now, but still funny every time you watch it. If you haven't seen i strongly suggest you start watching. I promise you, you will laugh, a lot. There's a whole lot of dancing and fat jokes too! Brilliant show. One of the best in the 90's for sure.
Great idea, a kid coming from the ghetto to live with his rich relatives. You know already your in for some fun. Will Smith only became famous thanks to this show, he shows how funny he can really be. The rest of the cast are pretty much flawless too, this show will always have you laughing with a hilarious script and a fun adventure every episode. Thank god for the creators of this show and a wonderful cast. Yes the show is very old now, but still funny every time you watch it. If you haven't seen i strongly suggest you start watching. I promise you, you will laugh, a lot. There's a whole lot of dancing and fat jokes too! Brilliant show. One of the best in the 90's for sure.
Watch the first two seasons
Sachin_Chavan14 December 2023
The first two seasons are immensely watchable. The characters are well shaped complimenting each other into a team that together made a great ensemble. There also was a certain depth and context to the small plots in each episode. But from the third season, to me, it just went all downhill. The characters felt as if their IQs were shaved by 30 points and EQs halved. They felt more like caricatures than characters with too much over the top dialogues and acting. Maybe that was what was needed to keep the series popular, I wouldn't know. But then it lost my interest. But I still recommend watching the first two seasons for almost anyone, especially families.
Absolutely Love
gracynmartin7 May 2022
The True Prince Of Bel-Air.......
Honesticedragon6918 November 2022
The Good= I like How this show did deal with some Heavy Handed Subjects. Such as Racism and Social Class just to name a couple.
Then there are all of the other things that I Personally like about this show. To start off is all of the Fourth Wall Breaks not only those were always fun but I'm always a big fan of those. Sadly there is one Fourth Wall Break Moment that I'm not a particularly a fan of. Sure it was during the End Credit Roll but still. As I found it way Over The Top even for a 90's Sitcom End Credit Sequence. And the moment that I'm Referring to is when Will Smith Jokingly tells Carlton that in order to escape he was forced to kill the person that was holding him hostage. Which non of that really happened as a bit of a Pay Back for the events of the episode. And in response Carlton Literally Ran Around all over the place including All of the Sets that were in that episode and to even the Live Audience Area. Screaming 'No' Darth Vader Style all the way through non stop. And at one point Carlton was on the Floor Crawling on just his Hands. With his body sort of resembling a Disabled Frogs.
Anyways moving on the Next thing I Really Love just wish there were a lot more moments like it. But I understand for obvious reasons why they do it very often in the show. And that would be that Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air does have Emotional Close To Tear Jerker, You Feel Like You Where Kick In The Heart Moments. Just wished the Final One just before the Show Ends didn't End With A Laugh Track when We'll Smith Both the Character and the Actor was fittingly be the one to turn off the Lights. It's too bad that could have been a really great moment.
Anyways next that I enjoy seeing all of the Guest Stars that they had on the show through out the years or seasons. Sure some I don't recognize but most I do. I'm so Glad that this show eventually Launched not only Well Smith the Actor's Acting Career and his Celebrity Status at the same time. And I think my favourite type of humour is the Sarcastic Humour that the Character of Geoffrey always had on the show. As it is the only type of humour that I seem to get. And I also love the friendship between Well and Carlton as it really feels Grounded and how Real Cousins would probably act in real life. And unless I'm Missing anything else that should do it for the Positives.
The Bad= As Funny and as Great as this show was I still have a few gripes with it a side from the ones I have mentioned in the Positive Section. Such as although I don't have any problems with them switching out the two Vivian Banks. It's that I felt that the First Vivian (Janet Hubert) was a much more Vivian Banks as with her version she played the type of woman and mother, and Professor Wife and Aunt you don't want to Mess With. While I felt that the Second Vivian Banks (Daphne Reid) is Kind and Soft and just about everything Opposite of what Janet's version of Viviane Banks was. Not that it's a big deal it's just given the choice I would rather prefer Janet Hubert's version, as I found her much entertaining to watch. Don't get me wrong Daphne is not an Actress or anything I enjoyed her version as well. But for whatever the reason Janet Hubert's version was just more memorable. It's just too bad that Janet Herbert had to leave the show for Behind The Scenes and Personal Issues. And while I'm on the subject I also wished did a little more with the Nicky Banks Character as I don't remember him being on the show very much, at least not as much as the other Banks Children. And when he just show up it just seems that he's just there to remind us that 'Oh Yeah Gave The Banks Kids A Baby Brother' and when he was in full episodes it just felt like he was just there for the Cuteness Factor.
Anyways moving on then next I just like how many 'Fake Outs' there was during during the shows run. It's like they enjoy no not just enjoy but live to call you the audience a 'Sucker' as they often revers storylines or other that they have set up just so they could seemingly call it a 'Plot Twist'. Oh sure some of their decisions are understandable able but often then not they just do it for the 'Twist' thing that I was talking about earlier. Anyways moving on again before I forget. It's just unfortunate in the DVD Version they not only Combined the Two Parter Halloween episodes in season one in to just one episode, but also the Normal Opening was used in this episode. Where as that Particular Episode as I have said was Supposed to be a Two Part Episode but also the Opening was supposed to be The Full Uncut Version. Then next I understand why but I don't know the Hilary Banks Character just feels like the Rich 90's Bimbo Stereotype which includes the way she talks. They also start a lot of Great Storylines and Concepts and Ideas but choose to never fallow up or even if they they never really bring then to a satisfying conclusion. And in the later seasons they seem to not only Recycle Old Ideas and Concepts that they already had in the Earlier Seasons, but also make a big fat joke out of them in the process, sadly which includes the Racism. And unless I'm missing anything else that should do it.
Final Thoughts= Still a lot Better than Bel-Air IMHO.
Then there are all of the other things that I Personally like about this show. To start off is all of the Fourth Wall Breaks not only those were always fun but I'm always a big fan of those. Sadly there is one Fourth Wall Break Moment that I'm not a particularly a fan of. Sure it was during the End Credit Roll but still. As I found it way Over The Top even for a 90's Sitcom End Credit Sequence. And the moment that I'm Referring to is when Will Smith Jokingly tells Carlton that in order to escape he was forced to kill the person that was holding him hostage. Which non of that really happened as a bit of a Pay Back for the events of the episode. And in response Carlton Literally Ran Around all over the place including All of the Sets that were in that episode and to even the Live Audience Area. Screaming 'No' Darth Vader Style all the way through non stop. And at one point Carlton was on the Floor Crawling on just his Hands. With his body sort of resembling a Disabled Frogs.
Anyways moving on the Next thing I Really Love just wish there were a lot more moments like it. But I understand for obvious reasons why they do it very often in the show. And that would be that Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air does have Emotional Close To Tear Jerker, You Feel Like You Where Kick In The Heart Moments. Just wished the Final One just before the Show Ends didn't End With A Laugh Track when We'll Smith Both the Character and the Actor was fittingly be the one to turn off the Lights. It's too bad that could have been a really great moment.
Anyways next that I enjoy seeing all of the Guest Stars that they had on the show through out the years or seasons. Sure some I don't recognize but most I do. I'm so Glad that this show eventually Launched not only Well Smith the Actor's Acting Career and his Celebrity Status at the same time. And I think my favourite type of humour is the Sarcastic Humour that the Character of Geoffrey always had on the show. As it is the only type of humour that I seem to get. And I also love the friendship between Well and Carlton as it really feels Grounded and how Real Cousins would probably act in real life. And unless I'm Missing anything else that should do it for the Positives.
The Bad= As Funny and as Great as this show was I still have a few gripes with it a side from the ones I have mentioned in the Positive Section. Such as although I don't have any problems with them switching out the two Vivian Banks. It's that I felt that the First Vivian (Janet Hubert) was a much more Vivian Banks as with her version she played the type of woman and mother, and Professor Wife and Aunt you don't want to Mess With. While I felt that the Second Vivian Banks (Daphne Reid) is Kind and Soft and just about everything Opposite of what Janet's version of Viviane Banks was. Not that it's a big deal it's just given the choice I would rather prefer Janet Hubert's version, as I found her much entertaining to watch. Don't get me wrong Daphne is not an Actress or anything I enjoyed her version as well. But for whatever the reason Janet Hubert's version was just more memorable. It's just too bad that Janet Herbert had to leave the show for Behind The Scenes and Personal Issues. And while I'm on the subject I also wished did a little more with the Nicky Banks Character as I don't remember him being on the show very much, at least not as much as the other Banks Children. And when he just show up it just seems that he's just there to remind us that 'Oh Yeah Gave The Banks Kids A Baby Brother' and when he was in full episodes it just felt like he was just there for the Cuteness Factor.
Anyways moving on then next I just like how many 'Fake Outs' there was during during the shows run. It's like they enjoy no not just enjoy but live to call you the audience a 'Sucker' as they often revers storylines or other that they have set up just so they could seemingly call it a 'Plot Twist'. Oh sure some of their decisions are understandable able but often then not they just do it for the 'Twist' thing that I was talking about earlier. Anyways moving on again before I forget. It's just unfortunate in the DVD Version they not only Combined the Two Parter Halloween episodes in season one in to just one episode, but also the Normal Opening was used in this episode. Where as that Particular Episode as I have said was Supposed to be a Two Part Episode but also the Opening was supposed to be The Full Uncut Version. Then next I understand why but I don't know the Hilary Banks Character just feels like the Rich 90's Bimbo Stereotype which includes the way she talks. They also start a lot of Great Storylines and Concepts and Ideas but choose to never fallow up or even if they they never really bring then to a satisfying conclusion. And in the later seasons they seem to not only Recycle Old Ideas and Concepts that they already had in the Earlier Seasons, but also make a big fat joke out of them in the process, sadly which includes the Racism. And unless I'm missing anything else that should do it.
Final Thoughts= Still a lot Better than Bel-Air IMHO.
After all these years, it's still Fresh!
walkingwithprimeval5 February 2020
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air is a hilarious family show full of laugh-out-loud humour and plenty of heartfelt dramatic moments that anyone can enjoy, in the same vein as Keeping Up Appearances (another brilliant comedy programme from the 1990s). I've literally seen this show so many times, I basically know it like the back of my hand.
This sitcom is filled to the brim with so many witty puns and sarcastic quips, that it'll leave you wondering how they where able to think up such creative jokes. One might even say it manages to subvert your expectations in a way you'd have never thought of before. Some of the more mature jokes like the innuendoes and double entendres will go over younger viewers' heads and keep adults laughing their heads off. The opening credits montage is accompanied by an upbeat jingle which lasts throughout the duration of its very addictive theme song.
Good humour is all about precise timing when it comes down to the comedic line deliveries and by letting the humorous moments flow naturally from the whacky events of the scenarios and situations the characters inevitably find themselves in, whereas bad humour will always feel as if it's being forcefully put in, which seems to be the case with just about nearly every stupid modern comedy film in recent years, pandering to a demographic of people with low attention spans by rapidly shoving in a bunch of dumb unfunny jokes to keep them amused. This just goes to show that it's still a funny sitcom after 3 decades and proves the '90s had much better comedy writers than we have nowadays.
Will Smith was perfect at playing an overacted version of his usual wise-cracking self. Alfonso Ribeiro was spot on as the innocent-minded, lovable and huggable Carlton. James Avery was great as the stern but caring father of the household, Uncle Phil. Karyn Parsons was a little annoying at first as the spoiled and self-centred Hilary, who acts like a selfish dumb blonde over the course of the whole entire series, but she soon grows on you. I have mixed feeling about Tatyana Ali as Ashley because on the one hand she was really sweet and adorable as a little girl in the first season but by the sixth season, when she fully matured from a moody adolescent into an incredibly attractive young woman, I thought she was extremely hot. DJ Jazzy Jeff's inclusion on the show may have started off as a running gag but he quickly evolved into a prominent recurring character who became a mainstay for the rest of the series. The stand out character for me would have to be the Banks' faithful butler Geoffrey, who is not the slightest bit afraid to openly speak his mind and has a very dry sense of sarcastic humour in contrast to the rest of the main cast's lively comedic performances.
It's fun, feel-good, family-friendly entertainment that's fit for people of all ages (and believe me, I should know). So what more is there left for me to really say about this other than just telling you to "give it a watch, because I guarantee you won't be disappointed".
This sitcom is filled to the brim with so many witty puns and sarcastic quips, that it'll leave you wondering how they where able to think up such creative jokes. One might even say it manages to subvert your expectations in a way you'd have never thought of before. Some of the more mature jokes like the innuendoes and double entendres will go over younger viewers' heads and keep adults laughing their heads off. The opening credits montage is accompanied by an upbeat jingle which lasts throughout the duration of its very addictive theme song.
Good humour is all about precise timing when it comes down to the comedic line deliveries and by letting the humorous moments flow naturally from the whacky events of the scenarios and situations the characters inevitably find themselves in, whereas bad humour will always feel as if it's being forcefully put in, which seems to be the case with just about nearly every stupid modern comedy film in recent years, pandering to a demographic of people with low attention spans by rapidly shoving in a bunch of dumb unfunny jokes to keep them amused. This just goes to show that it's still a funny sitcom after 3 decades and proves the '90s had much better comedy writers than we have nowadays.
Will Smith was perfect at playing an overacted version of his usual wise-cracking self. Alfonso Ribeiro was spot on as the innocent-minded, lovable and huggable Carlton. James Avery was great as the stern but caring father of the household, Uncle Phil. Karyn Parsons was a little annoying at first as the spoiled and self-centred Hilary, who acts like a selfish dumb blonde over the course of the whole entire series, but she soon grows on you. I have mixed feeling about Tatyana Ali as Ashley because on the one hand she was really sweet and adorable as a little girl in the first season but by the sixth season, when she fully matured from a moody adolescent into an incredibly attractive young woman, I thought she was extremely hot. DJ Jazzy Jeff's inclusion on the show may have started off as a running gag but he quickly evolved into a prominent recurring character who became a mainstay for the rest of the series. The stand out character for me would have to be the Banks' faithful butler Geoffrey, who is not the slightest bit afraid to openly speak his mind and has a very dry sense of sarcastic humour in contrast to the rest of the main cast's lively comedic performances.
It's fun, feel-good, family-friendly entertainment that's fit for people of all ages (and believe me, I should know). So what more is there left for me to really say about this other than just telling you to "give it a watch, because I guarantee you won't be disappointed".
It's ok
tsionbenjamin-9050823 August 2020
This show isn't as great as people make it seem but it isn't bad either. It's a good show that I will watch from time to time but it just doesn't grab me enough for me to binge it. Sometimes, it seems too silly and over the top and I find that the acting is overdone sometimes but mostly solid and good. The writing is what i feel letsdown the show its often cheap, predictable and lazy and I can really tell that this is aimed at mainly teens. I don't see why people say it's the best black show ever because it doesn't light a candle to the likes of Cosby Show, Jeffersons or Good times. To me, it's mildly entertaining and above average just not great.
Will Smith Acts Like A Jerk, People Eat It Up
SydBarrett42019 August 2008
I used to be a big fan of this show as a teen growing up, but as an adult I find the antics of Will Smith's characters annoying and repugnant. In each episode, Smith acts like a jerk to someone or does something that will obviously negatively effect some other character. Then he continues to act like a jerk while attempting to cover up whatever misdeeds he previously took part in. All of this for the final five minutes where Smith has an epiphany and then is absolved of his actions.
Will Smith's character consists loud and goofy noises and constantly cracking jokes about his looks. His character is extremely narcissistic and classless. The only redeeming quality of this show is Uncle Phil who is actually a decent actor with good comedic timing. Too bad this show degrades his weight every week while going after the lowest common denominator
Will Smith's character consists loud and goofy noises and constantly cracking jokes about his looks. His character is extremely narcissistic and classless. The only redeeming quality of this show is Uncle Phil who is actually a decent actor with good comedic timing. Too bad this show degrades his weight every week while going after the lowest common denominator
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
