Dallas

When I first heard the news of a Dallas reboot, I immediately decided that I would at least give it a chance, to see if they came up with a show that was as good as I remembered the original being.

I was hooked from the first episode.  The new Dallas has the same key elements of the original: intrigue, twists, and intricate storylines that keep the viewer glued to the screen.

The cast features old guard greats Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy, and Linda Gray in regular roles, with Ken Kercheval, Charlene Tilton, and Steve Kanaly all making cameo appearances (although Kercheval’s seems to be turning into a more regular role).  Needless to say, they’re all still perfect in the roles that made them famous worldwide three decades ago.

The new faces are Josh Henderson, Jesse Metcalfe, Jordana Brewster, Julie Gonzalo, and Brenda Strong.  They all play interesting roles and have gradually started creating fully fleshed characters.

The decision to pick up the story right where the characters would have been in a real timeline, rather then attempting to remake the original show (like it’s been done so many times in the last few years, always with miserable results) has paid off greatly.  The show feels fresh and interesting and it’s a treat to watch.

The biggest hat tip goes to the writers and producers, who conjured up a season so full of intrigue, backstabbing, and twists to fill not one but 4 seasons worth of material.  I’m really anxious to find out what they come up with for season 2.

Grade – Season 1: 8