Pilot: And now it's Showtime's turn to dip its toes into the Period Drama. With "Broadwalk Empire" losing steam and "Mad Men" nearing its end, perhaps it is indeed a good time to launch this new project, and based on the pilot, this show has a very good chance of succeeding. Even with a titillating premise, the pilot was surprisingly sterile (reminds me a lot of "Magic Mike" where the sex was rather clinical rather than erotic). A stellar cast led by the brilliant and sensational Michael Sheen and the amazingly revelation that is Lizzy Caplan, and created by Michelle Ashford, brings this engaging 50s era drama to life. Undoubtedly, the directing by John Madden, the sumptuous score by Michael Penn, and the gorgeous, beautiful set/production design, all played an essential part in transporting the audience to this time, place and moment in American history. Michael Sheen is amazing to watch, as he brings about a complexity to the character through subtle body language and tonal shifts; Lizzy Caplan, on the other hand, brings about a tender frailty despite the strong ferocity that she displays outwardly. Teddy Sears' (from "Dollhouse", "Torchwood: Miracle Day" and the ill-fated "666 Park Avenue") and Caitlin Fitzgerald's were briefly introduced, the former's role in the future seems rather uncertain, but the latter, will definitely be playing a big part in the familial context of the show. The weakest link in the cast would be Nicholas D'Agosto's Ethan Haas who seemed to be poised to be the main antagonist, but so far, in the pilot appears nothing but like a petulant child. Hopefully, as the story progresses, a new villain will emerge. We need for Margo Martindale! Her one scene with Sheen was priceless!
Episode #2, "Race to Space": A brilliant follow-up episode that advances the storyline without too much catching up and exposition. The hurdles and obstacles between the main leads are beginning to be established and this should bring us to the end of the season. Caplan continues to dazzle and sparkle in her role as the complicated, yet resourceful and sympathetic Ginny. Michael Sheen is a wonder of restrained emotions that flitter pass his face ever so subtly. Pacing may be a bit slow, but at least the score and the acting and directing was first class.
Episode #3, "Standard Deviation": This show is a winner. Really good acting from the two leads Sheen and Caplan, and an interesting plot that slowly, and deliciously, moves forward every week. The supporting cast has their moments, but I really hope the payoff for D'Agosto will be worth it. No Teddy Sears this time round. The periodicity of the times really does reflect on our current society, and by doing so, causes us to too reflect on our currency.
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