CW has kicked off its live-action adaptation of DC’s “Black
Lightning”, a Metropolis-spawned superhero who can project electrical currents from his body to thwart villainy; and yeah, man, the show sure does strike the ideal mark, at least for
its initial episode, “Resurrection”. In other words, so far, so good…
Normally, I essay predictions on superhero shows in advance
of their premieres, but in this instance, I thought it best to reflect on the
product after viewing its introduction. I realize that a good opening doesn’t guarantee a
smooth flow for an entire season, but considering the way
CW’s other, superhero shows have recently faltered, my optimism for “Black
Lightning” wasn’t all that luminous. Taking a little
taste before judging it seemed only proper.
Much of “Resurrection’”s appeal comes from the actor who plays Jefferson
Pierce, the gent otherwise known as Black Lightning. Cress Williams conveys
sophistication, style and determination in the role. He's also quite affable and therefore, identifiable. In this instance, however, Cress' interpretation is based on the character as he'd appear in later years, long after he’s retired
his superhero guise.
He’s now a hard-working principal with high principles, and therefore, pretty much like any other productive, law-abiding citizen. Alas, Pierce’s daughter, Jennifer (China Anne McClain), has crossed paths with a gang, and to complicate this, for initial reasons unknown, certain members of the police force seem intent in stopping Pierce in his travels whenever the opportunity arises. Why? Is it due to some vile profiling tactic? Perhaps, but whatever the cause, it's enough to trigger grave concern, making one wonder if these events aren't connected to some higher-order criminality; and if so, will Black Lightning return to remedy them?
He’s now a hard-working principal with high principles, and therefore, pretty much like any other productive, law-abiding citizen. Alas, Pierce’s daughter, Jennifer (China Anne McClain), has crossed paths with a gang, and to complicate this, for initial reasons unknown, certain members of the police force seem intent in stopping Pierce in his travels whenever the opportunity arises. Why? Is it due to some vile profiling tactic? Perhaps, but whatever the cause, it's enough to trigger grave concern, making one wonder if these events aren't connected to some higher-order criminality; and if so, will Black Lightning return to remedy them?
The execution of the initial episode is more in tune with “Arrow”
than CW’s other productions, but I also sensed a tonal correlation with such grim
Marvel/Netflix shows like “The Punisher”, "Luke Cage" and “Daredevil”, though without the layered violence.
A competent supporting case reinforces this somber tonality and includes Christine Adams; Nafessa Williams; Damon Gupton; and character-actor great, James Remar.
A competent supporting case reinforces this somber tonality and includes Christine Adams; Nafessa Williams; Damon Gupton; and character-actor great, James Remar.
I’m curious whether “Black Lightning” will build enough
momentum to become a CW staple. This might not be an easy task for its creators,
considering the slip in CW’s superheroic quality, where a significant blurring of
good-vs-bad has occurred: “Supergirl” being the main culprit, of course. On the
other hand, “Black Lightning” might be just the right, moral jolt in the arm that the
network needs to impact its other DC shows.
I’d also love to see Pierce team with the other crusaders through a series of crossovers—though only if those crossovers adapt the right, earnest vibe. All we need is to have Black Lightning join the gang in an hour-long song-and-dance routine, and then...well, need I say more?
I’d also love to see Pierce team with the other crusaders through a series of crossovers—though only if those crossovers adapt the right, earnest vibe. All we need is to have Black Lightning join the gang in an hour-long song-and-dance routine, and then...well, need I say more?
No comments:
Post a Comment