Friday, October 07, 2005
Deadwood (HBO)
This is the best show I've ever seen. Really. Season one is on DVD and you'll probably end up torrenting season two because it is that fucking good.
Don't let anyone tell you it's a western. It's actually a beautifully complex new approach to examining the inner workings of un-annexed mining camps in the American frontier. The town of Deadwood has a reputation for lawlessness, but it's actually ruled by a ruthless and complicated network of saloon and business men. But the plot almost doesn't matter, because the writers somehow managed to create the most utterly compelling characters in a slow burn drama. Much like with Firefly, this is a very strong ensemble with no weak links. Every story is a little more messed up than you think, a little bit vulnerable. They blend fictional characters with real ones, like Calamity Jane, Wild Bill Hickock, and Sol Starr.
Seriously, if you've never seen this show but find yourself intrigued by well-written, well-acted, meticulous stories (of which HBO has several lately), watch Deadwood.
Don't let anyone tell you it's a western. It's actually a beautifully complex new approach to examining the inner workings of un-annexed mining camps in the American frontier. The town of Deadwood has a reputation for lawlessness, but it's actually ruled by a ruthless and complicated network of saloon and business men. But the plot almost doesn't matter, because the writers somehow managed to create the most utterly compelling characters in a slow burn drama. Much like with Firefly, this is a very strong ensemble with no weak links. Every story is a little more messed up than you think, a little bit vulnerable. They blend fictional characters with real ones, like Calamity Jane, Wild Bill Hickock, and Sol Starr.
Seriously, if you've never seen this show but find yourself intrigued by well-written, well-acted, meticulous stories (of which HBO has several lately), watch Deadwood.
