When AMC's "Preacher" premiered a few years back, I entered with high hopes and for the most part was fascinated by its odd nature, even if I came to learn that the adaptation didn't match all aspects of the DC/Vertigo, Garth Ennis/Steve Dillon comic series.
It was just great to see Dominic Cooper (spry Howard Stark, no less) starring as Jesse Custer, the confused, off-the-beaten-track cleric, who hopes to regain his faith or something akin to that.
The entire cast has embellished Custer's quest well, being quirky, irreverent, and on the whole, identifiable. Ruth Negga's Tulip O'Hare, in particular, has been most engaging. However, this push-the-envelope deal with Noah Taylor's Hitler is troubling. The historic fiend comes across as sympathetic too much of the time; can't say I find that cool, even if my morbid bent has kept me glued to too many of those friggin Fuhrer features.
The thing that irks me most is how the series turned socio-political (thanks in no small part to co-producer Seth Rogan), which wouldn't be so bad if the content covered all points of view in the manner of "Star Trek", "Planet of the Apes" or "Alien Nation". But nope. "Preacher is now a one-sided, one-trick-pony at best. For those into that sinister slant, the saga surely pleases more than when it began, but for me...hell, I feel betrayed, even though a part of me is pleased that this against-the-odds program has lasted this long.
Based on Season 4's teaser, the fiery, theological tension is set to explode, with a spaghetti western fringe pressing its panache. The search for the on-the-lam Lord should reach fruition at long last, but will the climax bounce with that silly "Star Trek V"/"Way to Eden" vibe we've seen in the past or will it strike a chord that resonates with profound, destined-for-discussion longevity? No matter how it prances, the match-up at the Grail hub should grant Herr Starr (Pip Torens) and Custer enough cause to sew up the seams, no matter how big or small they may be.
And on that note, whatever will be will be. "Preacher" has been a rather rollicking, rude experience: for sure, something not to be forgotten. But if the series is to be remembered over the long run, will it be with an air of awe or simply because it dared to offend?
"Preacher: Season 4" begins August 4, 9 pm.
No comments:
Post a Comment