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Ordinary people find out that they have extraordinary powers.
Since I was twelve, I've always thought that a live-action X-Men drama would make a killer network TV show. Back in the early 90's when I hatched the idea, it seemed like an impossibility. The necessary special effects would have either been far too cheesy and killed the show, or way too expensive. However, thanks to today's incredible computer animation, my idea finally became a reality as "Heroes" came to NBC in the fall of 2006.
Ok, so Heroes isn't exactly X-Men, but it's close enough. In all actuality, abandoning a classic super-hero franchise and creating a completely new set of characters was probably a smart idea. For one, unless you followed the X-Men plotlines to perfection, comic-book nerds would inevitably complain about the show. Secondly, it's next to impossible to put real people into those super hero costumes without making them look like complete losers.
See what I mean? By making up their own characters and storyline, the writers were able to avoid both pitfalls. This was a very smart move on their part.
So Heroes has got a great concept and a solid plotline. At this point, they've got 95% of television shows beat. Now all they need to do is get a solid cast together and the show will become an all-time classic!
Doh!
You see, if Heroes has one weakness, it's the acting. And believe me, this is one glaring weakness. Out of the show's massive cast, I can't find a single one that would make it as a regular on Lost. It's almost as if Heroes decided to hold a multi-show casting call with One Tree Hill, 24, and Prison Break. I don't know if the low-quality cast was due to budget restraints, or talented actors being hesitant to audition for a super-hero series, but it's definitely kept the show from obtaining "legendary" status. Thankfully, the well-mapped-out storyline and the huge amount of twists manage to more than make up for the acting, which is why I watch the show every week and decided to give Heroes its own section on this site.
While there's still a little part of me that feels ripped-off - I had this idea in Jr. High! - I have to say that the creators of Heroes have done a wonderful job in holding true to the spirit of super-heroes and comic books that inspired me all those years ago. It's going to be a fun experience to watch where they'll take this show next. Let's just hope it involves a trip to a high-end talent agency!
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