Much hype has been built up for the highly anticipated show “Heroes” on NBC, and having just watched the pilot episode “Genesis” I can honestly say that all the hype was well founded.
Heroes tells the story of ordinary people who one day discover they have extra ordinary abilities. From one guy who thinks he can fly, to a Texas cheerleader who is seemingly invulnerable, to a Japanese office drone that can control time itself, each of these people will learn to deal with their newfound abilities in different ways.
“Genesis” sets the foundation for what is sure to be an exciting ride thru season one. We are introduced to several of the series’ regular characters, and we even get a glimpse as to the powers they posses.
For me the most enjoyable aspect of this show is the real world take it has on how these people address their newfound abilities. In the case of Peter Petrelli, who believes he can fly, he is constantly telling his brother about this vivid dreams he’s been having only to have his brother shoot them down as nonsense. In the case of Claire, she decides to test her invulnerability by subjecting herself to some pretty gruesome “experiments” including sticking her hand down a running garbage disposal.
Both are prime examples of what would really happen if either of these abilities were bestowed upon us. Would your loved ones believe you right off the bat? Wouldn’t you want to test yourself if suddenly you realized you couldn’t be hurt? These are questions the pilot episode asks the audience.
With the character of Hiro we are given a different perspective on the acceptance of super human abilities. While Peter and Claire represent our insecure side, who would be afraid to tell too many people out of fear of being deemed a “freak,” Hiro represents the inner child in all of us who would be all too happy to discover that we possessed these abilities. He is easily the most relatable character off the bat simply for the fact that he chooses to embrace his powers and become a “Super Hiro” (it’s a play on words, don’t take it literally).
As a first episode this show had it all. It introduced a few of the main characters (which is a lot smarter than trying to introduce them all) and it gave us time to get to know them a bit. After watching the pilot, we have a feel for Peter, Niki, Hiro, Isaac, and Mohinder.
Overall, I think Heroes did just about everything right. It introduced some characters, gave us back-stories, laid the foundation of the series, and most of all it immediately left me wanting more.
In the coming weeks we will be introduced to more characters including L.A.P.D officer Matt Parkman (played by Greg Grunberg) who after discovering he can read people’s thoughts, becomes hot on the trail of a serial killer. Also promised, we will be introduced to a major villain that will play a big role in the first season. Are the serial killer Matt is after and this mysterious villain one and the same? I guess you’ll have to tune in and watch it to find out.
Boys and girls, I think we have just seen the breakout series of the year.