Eleanor Shellshrop (Kristen Bell) opens her eyes to discover that she is dead and has entered the afterlife, and is now in 'The Good Place'. Michael (Ted Denson), the first-time architect of this particular neighbourhood, explains that there are 'distinct neighbourhoods within the good place each containing exactly 322 who have been perfectly selected to blend together into a blissful harmonic balance.' At their first orientation session Michael explains that the reason they are all in the good place is because during their time on Earth every one of their actions had a positive or negative value - and only those with the highest score get into the good place. Eleanor is shown into her new home, a quaint and bright cottage of the Icelandic-primitive style that perfectly matches her essence and features many clown paintings, and is introduced to her soulmate, Chidi (William Jackson), who was an ethics professor when he was alive. But as Eleanor explains to Chidi in confidence, there's a major problem - the 'Eleanor' to which Michael thinks he is referring too (who spent her life as a lawyer getting innocent people of death row) is not her, just another woman with the same name. This Eleanor is a saleswoman that made a living by tricking old and sick people into buying fake medicine. Obviously, she becomes pretty concerned that when Michael finds out she'll be sent to 'the bad place'.
The pilot episode, also titled 'Everything is Fine' was very exposition heavy, as you can tell from above, as it tried to quickly accommodate Eleanor and the audience to 'the good place'. It was handled well, but such a large exposition dump leads to further questions. Just as Eleanor and Chidi tried to ask Janet (D'Arcy Carden, the neighbourhood's informational assistant) about 'the bad place' I had similar questions. Why do they need to eat and sleep as if they were still functioning humans? Wouldn't a lot of these people have found a soulmate while alive, and wouldn't it be weird for them to immediately start a new relationship with a new person in the afterlife? Who works at all those yoghurt shops, surely not other good deceased people? If Eleanor and Chidi are soulmates why do they live in separate houses while Tahani (Jameela Jamil) and Jianyu (Manny Jacinto), another pair of soulmates who are Eleanor's neighbours, live together? It was nitpicking, yes, but that's the sort of scrutiny a high-concept series invokes. Thankfully the series was able to start to balance itself a bit more in its second episode, 'Flying', after a bizarre ending to the first in which giant ladybugs and flying shrimp started to cause havoc in the neighbourhood.
Chidi realises that Eleanor's presence is the cause of the mayhem, but she asks him if he will help her learn to be good in order to prevent her from eternal damnation in the bad place. Chidi struggles with what to do for the episode as Eleanor tries to prove herself good by helping to clean up the neighbourhood, only for her to ditch her duties in order to go flying with the others for their Day 2 Orientation. Naturally Eleanor feels bad and eventually cleans up the entire neighbourhood when her bad deed resulted in a rubbish storm prompting Chidi to give her a chance.
The series could very much become too heavy-handed with its metaphors and lessons of the week, as well as it's orientation into the good place, but for me personally the most exciting part of The Good Place is its potential for future discussions of morals and ethical philosophy. Most sitcoms will aim for being funny over its characters being good (see the success of a series like It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia), so it's refreshing that at least for now The Good Place looks as if its primary focus will be Eleanor's attempts to learn to become a better person. So for now, I'm willing to forgive its predictability. And who knows, maybe there's a lesson or two the series could teach the audience in the process.
Rating: 3.5/5
Favourite quote/ scene of the episode: When Tahani, after seeing how her silent soulmate Jianyu has helped Michael says, 'Maybe I should be silent too.' She's silent for two seconds before saying, 'Oh, that was wonderful! So cleansing!'
In anticipation of NBC's two-part miniseries, Rosemary's Baby, based off Ira Levin's 1967 best-selling horror novel, I sat down and watched the 1968 film adaptation, and here are some of my thoughts on where I hope the miniseries will take the story. For those who haven't seen the film and wish to watch the series regardless, please advise that there are spoilers below.
Make Rosemary An Exemplary Heroine
Despite being the titular character of the movie, Rosemary (as played by Mia Farrow) was presented as very passive. One particularly disturbing scene involved Rosemary passing out after eating a suspicious chocolate mousse. When she awakens she is led to believe that her husband, Guy (John Cassavetes), had sex with her while she was unconscious, although, as we later find out, she was actually raped by Satan. Regardless, Guy's excuse is that he didn't want to pass up the opportunity for them to conceive, to which she responds that they could have done it the following day, but after that, there is no discussion of the assault. This behaviour is obviously unacceptable and the miniseries would stand to have a Rosemary that would recognise and take action against this. Similarly, as her pregnancy progresses throughout the film she suffers through increasing stomach pains, but she only thinks to gain a second opinion from another doctor at the behest of her friends, enduring it for months before taking action. Her portrayal is somewhat understandable considering the period of time in which the film was made, and women's rights, as well as the depiction of female characters, have come a long way since then, so here's an opportunity for the writers to present a Rosemary that stands up for herself and takes innovative, a character females can be proud of.
Give Rosemary A Job
As an extension of my previous thought, Rosemary should be a self-sufficient individual and therefore should have her own income. The film takes place mostly in her and Guy's New York apartment, and the claustrophobia that provides was an excellent part of the film, so I'm not suggesting to move Rosemary out of the apartment. That would be a difficult feat, regardless, considering her pregnancy later on would confine her to their apartment anyway, but give her something to do - a job that she can do at home. Early on in the film version Rosemary fits out one of the hallway closets (later revealed to contain a door to an adjoining apartment), so why not have her as an interior designer or decorator? The film also uses the antique nature of the apartment building to great effect, so having Rosemary acquainted in the field on antiquities would also fit; perhaps she works in a museum? Giving her a job or interest that she is heavily knowledgeable in would allow her character to become more well-rounded and accessible to audiences overall in comparison to the Rosemary presented in the film. I did question the idea of changing Guy's profession from an actor to something else, but his career fits perfectly well into the overall plot of the film, and I find it hard to think of another job that would fit the profile just as well. Unless anyone else has any ideas?
Enhance the Paranoia, But Keep It Grounded
One of the aspects that the film does really well is the development of Rosemary's fears that everyone around her - her neighbours Roman (Sidney Blackmer) and Minnie Castevet (Ruth Gordon), her doctor, Abraham Sapirstein (Ralph Bellamy), and even her husband Guy - are all apart of an elaborate plot involving her and her unborn child. This obviously does turn out to be the case, but very early on in the film it becomes a certainty for Rosemary, and her willingness to believe that all these people, particularly her husband, her conspiring against her is very far-fetched. The longer length that the miniseries will provide gives the writers the opportunity to present Rosemary slowly coming to this conclusion rather than irrationally jumping to it as she seems to do in the film. Although those she accuses in the film try to label her as crazy, there doesn't ever seem to be a point where Rosemary thinks that she is, and I think the film missed out on a powerful opportunity to play on the fears of an expecting mother who begins to question her sanity prior to the birth of her child. Rosemary's certainty that everyone that surrounds her is evil isn't as ridiculous as it would seem though, since the film has no difficulties portraying these characters in such a way that even audiences assume they're up to on good with minutes of meeting them. Perhaps if the miniseries is able to make its characters more ambiguous, and not seem outright evil, it will create a better sense of paranoia and claustrophobia for audiences as they watch Rosemary struggle with her thoughts.
Go Crazy
One of the most endearing things about more recent horror television series like True Blood or American Horror Story is their ability to go all out with their wackiness. They embrace the themes that can often make genre television seem so ludicrous and play them up to show that they're not afraid. For me, one of the films most compelling scenes, despite the fact it involved Rosemary's rape, was her delirious sexual encounter with Satan, which the audience, and even Rosemary for a time, are uncertain as to whether or not was a real event or in Rosemary's mind. There's chanting, blood, nudity, and sex, what more could you possibly want as a viewer who's a fan of horror? The film could benefit from more scenes like this, and it almost captures a similar one during its final one where Rosemary discovers what has been going on throughout the film, but it ultimately doesn't reach the same heights. I spoke about the need to ground Rosemary but for the paranoia to be heighten, and this is the perfect way to do it. There's is obviously a point in the story where Rosemary becomes certain that something is awry, and after this point, the series should ensure it goes all out so that the audiences can go along with her into this journey of madness. Extend her final confrontation with Roman, Minnie, and the other witches. Play up the spookiness of their apartment, as well as Dr. Sapirstein's office. And have Guy slowly turn into the same monster that actually slept with her on the night that they supposedly conceived...
One final thought, one I think many will disagree with, is the longevity of the story, Rosemary's Baby. When I first heard about the series I was wondering how the plot of the film would even be applied to television, and a very short series seemed the obvious answer, which is what NBC have opted to do. However, now, having actually seen the film, I really think there is potential for it to become a full-fledged series. Here's Rosemary, trapped between the love she shares for her child, Adrian, and the coven of witches that want to raise it to (assumedly) destroy the world. She can't bring herself to kill the baby, but perhaps she can raise it to be good? And there's always the potential to physically remove the coven from his life... The series could take place with Adrian as a child and even a teenager which would provide even more storylines for an ongoing series. The only series I can think off that would share a similar vein would be 666 Park Avenue (which no doubt was heavily inspired by Rosemary's Baby in the first place). At this stage it would seem certain that NBC in content with having Rosemary's Baby as a miniseries event, but one of television's most popular trends of late is for supposedly short series (like Under The Dome) to turn into full-series if they prove popular enough, so it's not a completely unfounded thought on my part.
What does everyone else want to see from the miniseries? Are you a fan of the movie or not? And do you think there's any chance the story could continue after the miniseries? Check out the trailer for Rosemary's Baby below, which will start airing Sunday May 11 at 8.00pm on NBC.
NBC's Pitch: One of New York's most beloved news anchors, Mike Henry (Michael J. Fox), put his career on hold to spend more time with his family and focus on his health after he was diagnosed with Parkinson's. But now five years later, with the kids busy growing up and Mike growing restless, it just might be time for him to get back to work. Having never wanted Mike to leave in the first place, his old boss Harris Green jumped at the chance to get him back on TV. The trick, as it's always been, was to make Mike think it was his idea. After several - okay, many - failed attempts, Mike's family, anxious to see him out of the house, finally succeeded in getting him to "run into" Green. Now their plan is in motion. He'll be back to juggling home, family and career, just like the old days - only better.
My Thoughts: While heart-warming and boasting a solid cast, unfortunately this looks too painful to watch based on the amount of jokes made at Fox's expense, overall it's a little too self-deprecating.
Sean Saves The World
NBC's Pitch: Sean's a divorced dad who's trying to juggle it all. From his overbearing boss and offbeat employees at work - to his pushy mom and weekends with his teenage daughter at home - handling it all is no easy task. So when Ellie, his 14-year-old bundle of joy, moves in full-time, it's a whole new challenge. From keeping his boss happy, his employees motivated and enduring his mother's tactless "advice" to raising a smart, grounded and healthy kid, it's going to be a growing experience, to say the least. But if anyone can swing it, it's Sean.
My Thoughts: There's not too much going on here, but the cast and the basic plot has potential. I might watch.
Welcome To The Family
NBC's Pitch: After four years of barely getting by in school, Dan and Katrina Yoder are thrilled when their daughter Molly is handed her high school diploma. Now it's off to Arizona State for Molly, and a mid-life renaissance for the Yoders (which includes turning Molly's room into their dream fitness center). At the same time in East LA, Junior Hernandez is delivering his valedictorian address. As the first of his family to go to college (Stanford!), Junior's the pride and joy of parents Miguel and Lisette. But Junior's barely into his speech before he gets an unexpected text: "i'm pregnant." The sender? Miss Molly Yoder. OMG/Dios Mio! When Molly and Junior decide to get hitched, they bring two very different families together in a way they never imagined. Dan and Miguel, who already have a history, do NOT see eye to eye. But more importantly, what about Stanford? Arizona State? Who's going to raise the baby? And oh no - what about the fitness center?! For the sake of their kids (and the one on the way) they'll have to somehow make it all work... like it or not.
My Thoughts: The culture clash of the two families and undoubtedly their ability to grow and learn from each other with also grow old fast. I won't be watching.
NBC's Pitch: For decades, ex-government agent Raymond "Red" Reddington (James Spader) has been one of the FBI's most wanted fugitives. Brokering shadowy deals for criminals across the globe, Red was known by many as "The Concierge of Crime." Now, he's mysteriously surrendered to the FBI with an explosive offer: he will help catch a long-thought-dead terrorist, Ranko Zamani, under the condition that he speaks only to Elizabeth "Liz" Keen, an FBI profiler fresh out of Quantico. For Liz, it's going to be one hell of a first day on the job. What follows is a twisting series of events as the race to stop a terrorist begins. What are Red's true intentions? Why has he chosen Liz, a woman with whom he seemingly has no connection? Does Liz have secrets of her own?
My Thoughts: Spader makes for a great lead, and the plot seems fast-paced and exciting. I think I'll watch.
Dracula
NBC's Pitch: It's the late 19th century, and the mysterious Dracula has arrived in London, posing as an American entrepreneur who wants to bring modern science to Victorian society. He's especially interested in the new technology of electricity, which promises to brighten the night - useful for someone who avoids the sun. But he has another reason for his travels: he hopes to take revenge on those who cursed him with immortality centuries earlier. Everything seems to be going according to plan... until he becomes infatuated with a woman who appears to be a reincarnation of his dead wife.
My Thoughts: The title, setting, and even the story are uninspired. I don't think I'll be watching.
Ironside
NBC's Pitch: In the gritty world of the NYPD, no one's tougher than Detective Robert Ironside. He's a fearless cop who won't stop until the guilty are brought to justice. He and his trusted, handpicked team of specialists will do whatever it takes to solve New York's most difficult and notorious crimes - even if it means breaking the rules. Tough, sexy and acerbic, Ironside's never been afraid to call it like he sees it. As a detective, his instincts are second to none, and those around him have to stay on their toes if they want to keep up... because when his spine was shattered by a bullet two years ago, Ironside swore he'd never let a damn wheelchair slow him down.
My Thoughts: Ironside doesn't seem very likable, and it just seems like a standard procedural. I won't be watching.
NBC's pitch: The Gilchrists are just the average American family dealing with all the everyday issues—like a grown kid who's forced to move back home, children who are smarter than their teachers and a stepmom (Jenna Elfman, Dharma and Greg) desperately trying to win over the kids. They're loving, fun, and a little crazy. In other words, just like everybody else. With one exception: They live in a very special house. The White House! Whether it's entertaining foreign dignitaries, sneaking away for a night out, dealing with middle school crushes or putting out fires—figuratively and sometimes literally—there's never a dull moment in the Gilchrist White House. For example, the First Son (Josh Gad, star of Broadway sensation The Book of Mormon) is one of the administration's biggest liabilities, but also the glue that holds this family together. The President (Bill Pullman, Independence Day, While You Were Sleeping) knows too well that the only thing harder than being Head of State is being head of the family. Also starring are Martha MacIsaac (Superbad), Andre Holland (Friends with Benefits), Amara Miller (The Descendants) and Benjamin Stockham (Sons of Tucson). Modern Family meets The West Wing in this election-year comedy from Emmy-winning executive producer/director Jason Winer (Modern Family). The executive producers are Winer, Gad, and Jon Lovett (former White House speechwriter).
My Thoughts: Gad seems genuinely funny in this clip, but looks like his character could tire easily, plus it's hard to see him fitting in to the White House. I'll watch, initially.
Animal Practice
NBC's pitch: Meet Dr. George Coleman (Justin Kirk, Weeds), a top-dog New York veterinarian. With an unorthodox style of operating, George's success comes from his undeniable gift with animals of all kinds. That is, all but the human kind. Dorothy Crane once held the key to George's heart, but today she also holds the key to the family business as she takes over Crane Animal Hospital. Not only is she George's new boss, but her romantic history with him and her lack of experience with animals is seriously cramping his style. Dorothy is whip-smart and ambitious, and she's going to make George pay for the past. Needless to say, he's determined not to make any changes in his (animal) kingdom—which includes poker games with a resident Capuchin monkey. Also starring are Tyler Labine (Reaper, Sons of Tucson) as Dr. Doug Jackson, a vet who's great with animals but hapless in matters of the heart, Bobby Lee (Harold & Kumar) as Dr. Yamamoto, and newcomer Betsy Sodaro as Angela. The executive producers are Scot Armstrong (The Hangover Part II, Old School) and Ravi Nandan (Best Friends Forever) of American Work Inc. (Best Friends Forever) along with Emmy Award winners Joe and Anthony Russo (Community, Arrested Development). Animal Practice was written by Brian Gatewood and Alessandro Tanaka (The Sitter), who also serve as executive producers. Gail Lerner (Happy Endings) also is an executive producer. Directed by the Emmy-winning Russo brothers, Animal Practice is a comedy where the animals are running the asylum.
My Thoughts: This looks charming, and could be mildly amusing while having a bit of heart, but I imagine the animal gags getting old fast. I won't be watching.
Go On
NBC's pitch: Misery loves company. Unless you're sportscaster Ryan King (Matthew Perry), who thinks misery should just be left alone. After taking some time off, Ryan—who recently lost his wife in a car accident—is now ready to get back to work. And while he seems like his same old charming, cocky self, his boss won't let him back on the air until he seeks counseling. So, Ryan reluctantly joins a support group with one goal in mind: Get in, get out and get back on the radio as quickly as possible. Played by the fast-talking, sarcastic, and charismatic Perry, Ryan gives grief a real run for its money. Within one day of group therapy, he hijacks the meeting and suddenly the downtrodden are cajoled into playing a game of "who's got the best sob story?" And in no time all of them are battling it out, trying to one-up each other's despair. Now, this is fun! Ryan's total lack of interest in healing might be just what this group needs—and maybe, exactly what he needs to move on with his life. Also starring Laura Benanti (The Playboy Club), Julie White (Transformers), Suzy Nakamura (Dodgeball), Khary Payton (General Hospital) and Allison Miller (Terra Nova).
My Thoughts: This looks funny, but Matthew Perry playing straight with a bunch of weirdos in therapy could get old fast. Plus, it looks like the show has a more serious side, which could be a good or a bad thing depending on the viewer. I might watch.
Guys With Kids
NBC's pitch: From Emmy winner and executive producer Jimmy Fallon comes a new comedy about three thirty-something dads trying to hold on to their youth, while holding onto their new babies' hands. Easy, right? Thankfully, Chris (Jesse Bradford, The West Wing), Nick (Zach Cregger, Friends with Benefits) and Gary (Anthony Anderson, Law & Order) have each other to help navigate their survival as new dads, while still trying desperately to remain dudes. Balancing work or staying at home, painfully married or happily divorced, they know that taking care of the little ones while maintaining a social life is a daily challenge. Whether it's hosing the little squirt down in the kitchen sink or hitting the bar strapped with a Baby Björn, these guys are on a roller-coaster adventure—parenting like you (and they) have never seen before. Also starring are Jamie Lynn Sigler (The Sopranos) and Tempestt Bledsoe (The Cosby Show). Someone once said it is much easier to become a father than to be one. These three guys are about to find out just how true that is. Fallon (Late Night with Jimmy Fallon) serves as executive producer/creator along with executive producer/creator/writer Charlie Grandy (NBC's The Office) and executive producer/creator Amy Ozols (Late Night with Jimmy Fallon) as well as executive producers Rick Wiener and Kenny Schwartz (Two Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place, American Dad). Emmy-nominated director Scott Ellis (Modern Family, 30 Rock) is the director.
My Thoughts: Another recent sitcom trying to find a funny way to tell the stories of modern day men, and unfortunately this one doesn't seem all that funny, or appealing to men for that matter. I won't be watching.
Next Caller
NBC's pitch: What happens when a foulmouthed satellite radio DJ—played by the multi-platinum artist and outrageously charming Dane Cook (My Best Friend's Girl)—is forced to share the mic with a chipper NPR feminist? It's anyone's call in this sharp new comedy from producer Stephen Falk (Weeds) and Emmy-winning director Marc Buckland (Grimm, My Name Is Earl). It's her first day in New York City, and 26-year-old Stella Hoobler (Collette Wolfe, Young Adult) is ready to take on the world. After a stint on public radio, she's been hired to co-host the no-holds-barred show "Booty Calls with Cam Dunne." Smart, spunky and passionate, Stella is determined to elevate the show beyond its boy's-club-locker-room humor into a respected debate about men, women, and the state of human relationships. But there's a problem: Cam! She's going to find out the hard way that he's got no intention of sharing the spotlight, especially with someone like her. It's going to be a tense fight, but with the station's one rule being "make some noise," Cam and Stella could be a winning combination—as long as they don't knock each other out on their way to success. Jeffrey Tambor (Arrested Development), Joy Osmanski (True Jackson, VP) and Wolé Parks (Premium Rush) also star. The series is created and executive-produced by Stephen Falk (Weeds) and directed by Emmy Award-winning director Marc Buckland (Grimm, My Name Is Earl).
My Thoughts: The concept is more interesting than most of the other new sitcoms this season, but Dane Cook could easily be an unlikable lead. I might watch.
Save Me
NBC's pitch: Welcome to the Midwestern suburbs, where exciting things never happen. Well, almost never. After a near-death experience (choking on a hero sandwich), Beth is revived only to realize she now has a direct line to God. Of course, her husband Tom is skeptical and dismissive - and his mistress is all but hostile that her lover's wife is now a prophet! But when inexplicable things begin to happen, everyone's beliefs are tested. Beth starts to say and do things that shock her family and entrance her friends, but she isn't going to be your typical "fire and brimstone" prophet. Let's just say if God had a desperate housewife as His mouthpiece, Beth would be it! She is the absolute last person on Earth who would be chosen. Then again, they say He works in mysterious ways. And this one is a real mystery! Emmy nominee Anne Heche stars in this uniquely spirited new comedy from John Scott Shepherd ("Nurse Jackie") and Emmy-winning director Scott Winant ("Breaking Bad," "True Blood," "Californication").
My Thoughts: Certainly an interesting concept, but could be too preachy. I don't think I'll be watching.
The New Normal
NBC's pitch: These days, families come in all forms—single dads, double moms, sperm donors, egg donors, one-night-stand donors... It's 2012 and anything goes. Bryan (Andrew Rannells, Girls, The Book of Mormon) and David (Justin Bartha, The Hangover) are a Beverly Hills couple and they have it all. Well, almost. With successful careers and a committed and loving partnership, the one thing missing is a baby. And just when they think the stars will never align, enter Goldie (Georgia King, One Day), an extraordinary young woman with a checkered past. A Midwestern waitress and single mother looking to escape her dead-end life and small-minded grandmother (Ellen Barkin, Ocean's Thirteen), Goldie decides to change everything and move to L.A. with her precocious 8-year-old daughter. Desperate and broke—but also fertile—Goldie quickly becomes the guys' surrogate and quite possibly the girl of their dreams. Surrogate mother, surrogate family. Ryan Murphy (American Horror Story, Glee) serves as creator/executive producer and director along with executive producer/creator/writer Ali Adler (Glee, Chuck) and executive producer Dante Di Loreto (Glee, American Horror Story).
My Thoughts: Other than Goldie's cut-away gag, nothing really stood out in the trailer, and some of the secondary characters seem annoying already. Again, the show looks more like a dramedy. I won't be watching.
Like CBS, the presentation of quite a few of NBC's trailers was very off-putting. You're not going to give viewers an idea of what the entire show is about with a one minute clip.
NBC's pitch: No job is more stressful, dangerous or exhilarating than those of the firefighters, rescue squad and paramedics of Chicago Firehouse 51. These are America's everyday heroes—the courageous men and women who forge headfirst into danger when everyone else is running the other way. But the enormous responsibilities of the job also take a personal toll. Big reputations and hefty egos, coupled with the pressure to perform and make split-second decisions, are bound to put squad members at odds. When a tragedy claims one of their own, there's plenty of guilt and blame to go around. In the middle of a divorce, Lt. Matthew Casey (Jesse Spencer, House) tries to go about business as usual but can't help butting heads with the brash Lt. Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney, The Vampire Diaries) of the Rescue Squad—and each blames the other for their fallen team member. When it's "go-time" though, they put aside their differences and put everything on the line for each other. Chicago Fire is a look inside one of America's noblest professions. Also starring are Eamonn Walker (The Messenger), Charlie Barnett, (Law & Order: SVU), David Eigenberg (Sex and the City), Monica Raymund (The Good Wife), Lauren German (Hawaii Five-0), Teri Reeves (Three Rivers) and Merle Dandridge (Sons of Anarchy). From renowned Emmy-winning producer Dick Wolf and the writing team behind 3:10 to Yuma comes an edge-of-your-seat view of a dirty job that often means the difference between life and death.
My Thoughts: The tension between the two male leads is believable, and there looks to be enough action, romantic etc. to keep the procedural die-hards happy. I don't think I'll be watching.
Do No Harm
NBC's pitch: Dr. Jason Cole (Steven Pasquale, Rescue Me) is a highly respected neurosurgeon who has it all—a lucrative career, confident charm, the gift of compassion. But he also has a deep, dark secret. One morning when he wakes up disoriented in a wrecked hotel room amidst several near-naked women he's never seen before, he knows one thing: It's happening again. Every night at the same hour, something inside Jason changes, leaving him almost unrecognizable—seductive, devious, borderline sociopathic. This new man is his dangerous alternate personality who goes by the name of 'Ian Price.' For years he's battled Ian, keeping him in check with a powerful experimental sedative. But now his—their—body has developed a resistance to the serum, setting Ian free once again. And to make matters worse, after being suppressed for so long, Ian's hell-bent on taking revenge on his oppressor. With everyone Jason cares about at risk—patients, friends, coworkers, and even the woman he loves—he's got to stop Ian once and for all. Will they find some common ground, or will they bring each other down? Hell hath no fury like an alter ego scorned. Also starring are Alana De La Garza (Law & Order), Mousa Kraish (Superbad), Michael Esper (A Beautiful Mind), Ruta Gedmintas (The Borgias) and Phylicia Rashad (The Cosby Show). The executive producer/writer is David Schulner (Desperate Housewives, The Event). Peter Traugott (Ringer) and Rachel Kaplan (Ringer) also are executive producers. Michael Mayer (NBC's Smash) is the co-executive producer and director.
My Thoughts: There's not much to go on, but already Cole's character comes across as grating, and the show itself seems too melodramatic. Perhaps Price, his alter ego will be more entertaining? I won't be watching.
Infamous
NBC's pitch: When wealthy socialite and notorious party girl Vivian Bowers is found dead of an overdose, no one is really surprised. The heiress to the Bowers pharmaceutical empire has been tabloid fodder for years: wild, pretty, privileged... and now dead at the age of 32. But for FBI agent Will Moreno (Laz Alonso, Avatar), things don't add up with this suspicious dynasty. Convinced that the troubled girl's death was a homicide, he has a clever plan to get to the truth. Her name is Detective Joanna Locasto (Meagan Good, Think Like a Man). Twenty years ago, she was Vivian's best friend, having grown up in the Bowers' home. And when she appears at Vivian's funeral, the family re-embraces her and no one is the wiser. Joanna quickly begins to uncover dark secrets and clues about why Vivian's life was very much in danger. At the same time, she rekindles an old romantic relationship and rediscovers the allure of the luxurious lifestyle she once knew. She's about to see once again just how the other half lives... and dies. Also starring are Victor Garber (Alias), Tate Donovan (Damages), Katherine La Nasa (Alfie), Neil Jackson (Quantum of Solace) and Ella Rae Peck (Gossip Girl). Infamous comes from executive producer/writer Liz Heldens (Friday Night Lights) and director Peter Horton (Grey's Anatomy, Dirty Sexy Money).
My Thoughts: I was looking forward to this one, and again, there's not much to go on, but the concept has been done before and Meagan Good doesn't seem a very charismatic lead. I might watch, but only if nothing else is on.
Revolution
NBC's pitch: Our entire way of life depends on electricity. So what would happen if it just stopped working? Well, one day, like a switch turned off, the world is suddenly thrust back into the dark ages. Planes fall from the sky, hospitals shut down, and communication is impossible. And without any modern technology, who can tell us why? Now, 15 years later, life is back to what it once was long before the industrial revolution: families living in quiet cul-de-sacs, and when the sun goes down lanterns and candles are lit. Life is slower and sweeter. Or is it? On the fringes of small farming communities, danger lurks. And a young woman's life is dramatically changed when a local militia arrives and kills her father, who mysteriously—and unbeknownst to her—had something to do with the blackout. This brutal encounter sets her and two unlikely companions off on a daring coming-of-age journey to find answers about the past in the hopes of reclaiming the future. From director Jon Favreau and the fertile imaginations of J.J. Abrams and Eric Kripke comes a surprising "what if" action-adventure series, where an unlikely hero will lead the world out of the dark. Literally. The series stars Billy Burke (The Twilight Saga), Tracy Spiridakos (Being Human), Anna Lise Phillips (Terra Nova), Zak Orth (Romeo + Juliet), Graham Rogers (Memphis Beat), J.D. Pardo (A Cinderella Story), Giancarlo Esposito (Breaking Bad), David Lyons (The Cape), Maria Howell (The Blind Side), Tim Guinee (Iron Man) and Andrea Roth (Rescue Me).
My Thoughts: An intriguing high-concept show, with tension abound. I had my reservations initially, but this trailer is good. I'll be watching. Side note: I'm so glad they sampled the song Touched by VAST towards the end of this trailer, they're an amazing band, and hopefully this will get them some more exposure.
