While many may know Kevin Williamson’s work for the witty dialogue, in projects such as Dawson’s Creek, The Vampire Diaries, and the Scream films, people might have forgotten and/or overlooked the notion that he can write some downright scary, chilling, and suspenseful material as well.
It is that suspense that is prevalent in The Following, Williamson’s new drama series that premieres tonight at 9PM (ET) on FOX, which sees a former FBI agent (played by Kevin Bacon) called back into the case after a criminal he helped put away, Joe Carroll (James Purefoy), manages to escape from death row.
The Following is not for everyone, especially in light of recent violent things that happened in “the real world.” It is definitely not for children, with some moments pushing the limits of what TV censors will allow. I was in that category where yes, some bits creeped me out, but at the same time, they made for a more powerful, more interesting narrative.
While the supporting cast for The Following — including Shawn Ashmore (X-Men) — is fantastic, the biggest credit to The Following has got to go to the two series leads. Purefoy is creepy as all get out, while at the same time being charismatic… you can understand how his character of Carroll can “inspire” people the way that he does. Bacon plays his part with the kind of determination that honestly, a lesser actor could not have pulled off. Any time either of them shows up on screen is gold.
I’m not normally a fan of serious TV; I watch TV at times to escape a reality… but when the fictional “reality” is as well done as this, I don’t mind some reality from time to time. I’m also happy that there were several surprises, even in the pilot episode. That can also explain why I’m not talking about specific plot points, as I do not want to ruin anything for anyone.
The Following is highly recommended, although, as I warned before, it will not be for everyone. Myself, I am very curious to see what happens next. It’s well written, well acted, well shot… and all in all, a fantastic new TV program.
THE FOLLOWING: A fast-paced psychological thriller that follows former FBI agent Ryan Hardy (Kevin Bacon, seventh from L), who is called out of retirement to track down Joe Carroll (James Purefoy) in the new drama THE FOLLOWING premiering Monday, Jan. 21 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. Pictured L-R: Nico Tortorella, Valorie Curry, Adan Canto, Natalie Zea, Kyle Catlett, Shawn Ashmore and Annie Parisse. ©2012 Fox Broadcasting Co. CR: Michael Lavine/FOX
THE FOLLOWING: A fast-paced psychological thriller that follows former FBI agent Ryan Hardy (Kevin Bacon, seventh from L), who is called out of retirement to track down Joe Carroll (James Purefoy) in the new drama THE FOLLOWING premiering Monday, Jan. 21 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. Pictured L-R: Nico Tortorella, Valorie Curry, Adan Canto, Natalie Zea, Kyle Catlett, Shawn Ashmore and Annie Parisse. ©2012 Fox Broadcasting Co. CR: Michael Lavine/FOX
4 Comments
It is definitely NOT for the squeamish. I caught the pilot at NYCC and all I can think of was “this is really made for FX not FOX.” And if you’re a dog lover…good luck! lol. I really dug the episode…the ending makes it all come together and where the show is headed.
It’ll be interesting to see what kind of boundaries they push in future episodes. I can’t wait for more esp. when Warren Kole will be making his first appearance!
Lauren, I know exactly what you were talking about with the dog thing…eesh!
I love that a broadcast show like this is being so bold, though.
Really looking forward to see this – only a few hours left now!
Someone I was sitting next to…she had her eyes closed with her head down during that scene!
Anywho counting down the days or maybe hours lol til Parents Television Council calls for a boycott