Welcome to the series premiere of Going In Blind With John Stark, an opportunity for me to directly analyze and critique the audio description for a film, and talk about it. To start, I’ve chosen films I remember from when I had sight, and made some kind of permanent visual space in my head. Kicking it off with the Flintstones (1994), which I’ve seen numerous times. I wanted to start off with a film I knew, but not necessarily my favorite, as I assume I’ll get better at this. I find out no AD company was credited, but I am pretty sure it is human. The film is an adaptation of the classic cartoon, with John Goodman, Rick MOranis, Elizabeth Perkins, and Rosie O’Donnell taking the iconic roles of Fred, Barney, Wilma, and Betty. Also in the cast are Kyle McLachlain, Halle Berry, and Elizabeth Taylor. The movie was directed by Brian Levant, who went on to direct the prequel, as well as Jingle All The Way and SNow Dogs. I’m operating under fair use, because I’m clearly critiquing the audio description track attached to the film. I’m pretty sure this would be an awful way for anyone to watch The Flintstones, and the majority of my commentary is directed at the description, referencing what is happening in the film, and what I remember, versus what is being conveyed. It’s like sitting next to me on the couch while I talk the whole movie. 

John Stark is a Rotten Tomatoes Approved blind film critic, and you can find him on YouTube (YouTube.com/macthemovieguy), or follow him on X, Insta, Threads, or TikTok @macthemovieguy. He also has a website macthemovieguy.com.