Science fiction shows, particularly on network TV, have had a spotty track record for me. I like them, but they are often too niche for wider audiences. For every HEROES or FRINGE that was given a chance to run its course despite middling ratings, there was a SURFACE which was tragically cancelled after one season (Trust me, SURFACE was awesome). This is sad for any series, but particularly troublesome with a science fiction show that sets up a great premise that it isn’t given a chance to deliver on. DEBRIS has a lot of potential, so I’m rooting for it to make it.
The show has all the ingredients of a good science fiction show. It features the two mismatched agent team-up (Riann Steele, Jonathan Tucker) that has become a tv/movie staple and applies it to an original concept as they spearhead a team tracking down mysterious debris from space that has strange powers. It seems like different pieces of debris have different effects, setting up a ‘debris of the week’ potential rhythm. Like THE X-FILES, it also includes an overarching conspiracy that can tie the self contained episodes together.
The pilot episode features an eerie atmosphere, including the special effects, which were quite effective and matched the tone of the episode perfectly. Combined with the music, DEBRIS gives off a suspensefully unsettling vibe. The pilot also throws in the requisite creepy kid to seal the deal. The pilot episode has to spend a lot of time setting up the story which gives the actors less time to shine. Without time to dig into the characters, we are given some hints at backstory that will likely be fleshed out in future episodes. The acting is strong enough to give me confidence that the characters will grow on me, but the mystery they are trying to solve is what grabbed my attention.
DEBRIS has set up an interesting science fiction mystery. The good news is, the pilot also tells a self contained story, so you can check out the episode with minimal commitment and decide whether you want to keep watching. If you like science fiction, it is worth a try. I hope the show catches on so it is given a chance to pay off on the promising premise.
DEBRIS‘ pilot episode airs Monday March 1st on NBC at 10-11 p.m. ET).
Check back next week for my thoughts on the next episode of the show.
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