Evidently, Amazon's pilot for "The Tick" (see Aug '16 post) proved successful enough to spring a whole, new series based on Ben Edlund's celebrated goof of a hero.
Peter Serafinowicz continues in the brawny lead, taking the reins from Patrick Warburton, who (along with Serafinowicz) acts as one of the show's many co-producers: a good sign, in most fans' estimations.
Warburton's series didn't deserve to be cut so short after it premiered on Fox in '01: Fingers crossed that this new, live-action adaptation will have longer legs. The pilot for the remake certainly seemed to capture most of the initial's colorful sensibilities: another good sign.
Griffin Newman, Serafinowicz's pilot costar, reprises his role as Arthur Everest, aka Moth Man. The two brew a contagious chemistry, but then it appears (simply based on the series' well staged publicity), this entire reincarnation will heap on ample charm. There's the evident, quirky humor that fans have come to expect (if not demand), but also a strong display of friendship and triumph over evil, which could bless the production with substantial longevity. (Let's hope, though, that the folks behind the scenes don't get too elitist in their aspirations and turn this into some wise-ass, sociological essay. If there's anything that'll ruin the show, it'll be that.)
To flavor the shenanigans, Valorie Curry stars as Dot Everest; Yara Martinez as Ms. Lint; Scott Speiser as Overkill; Michael Cerveris as Ramses; Ryan Woodle as the ("Amazing Colossal") VLM; Jackie Earle Haley as the Terror; and Brendan Hines as the conceited Superian.
The new "Tick" premieres on Amazon this Aug 25, with all six episodes (pilot included) loaded for one's immediate indulgence. I, for one, will be "tuning in" with sincere and heartfelt eagerness.
Picked up after the pilot and like the flow. Feels right so far, that is. I'll see how the rest goes...
ReplyDeleteThe casting here is impeccable, or as close to as impeccable as one could want, but alas, there's also (as I so feared) that elitist perspective peppering the plot: not good. It spoils the flow. This show could have been an equivalent to the '60s "Batman", but with the pot stirred in such a way, it can only ever fall short. Pity...
ReplyDeleteIt's also hard for me to relate to Arthur's reluctance to help. He's too meek, too unconcerned...well, maybe he's concerned, but in the wrong way. Bummer...
Finished the episodes. Not bad; not great. Has loads of potential, though, if it gains the proper focus.
ReplyDeleteThere's also a touch of "Watchmen" in there. I wonder if that's why Haley was cast, but then, he's a good actor. Why not have him on board?