TV Musings: REVOLUTION

REVOLUTION is a hodge-podge of different cult genre thrown together and stirred up with an industrial blender. Western, kung fu, swashbuckling, science fiction, post-apocalyptic action film – there’s no stone unturned here as the creators attempt to throw out the largest net possible in order to draw in the fans.

You have to tip your hat to veteran director Jon Favereau for taking so many eclectic inspirations and somehow making them all work.

The success of THE HUNGER GAMES is also a huge factor here and it’s no surprise that REVOLUTION’s young female lead, striding so confidently through the wreckage of human civilization, could be confused for a Katniss Everdeen clone, bow and all.

Ultimately, REVOLUTION’s greatest weakness is that its playing around in a genre that rewards boldness and risk taking but doing so with one hand tied behind its back. Post-apocalyptic sci fi is a rich seam with the potential for powerful storytelling and uncompromising characters, but unfortunately REVOLUTION is operating under American broadcast television rules.

That means the lead cast looks extra-ordinarily well fed, sporting gym fresh bodies, stylish militaryesque shabby chic clothing (including belly shirts) and generally seems to be living a good, if somewhat rustic, life.

Additionally, all swearing is PG, all deaths bloodless and the central plot slightly generic.

REVOLUTION is interesting and engaging, without being challenging and thought provoking, a perfect recipe for longevity on the small screen but an utterly lousy one for making  a lasting impact on its audience.

One bright light for the show is that character actor Giancarlo Esposito, AKA Gustavo Fring, continues to elevate the calibre of any scene he happens to be in.