By Corey Vikser
Staff Writer
Although ABC’s newly-premiered series “Resurrection” could have massive potential, as it previews an original idea and plot, it unfortunately ends up squandering, due to sloppy execution.
Despite believable performances from lead actresses Devin Kelley and Frances Fisher, the show crumbles under a confusing story and lack of personality, resulting in no more than a generic network series.
“Resurrection” is based on the bestselling novel “The Returned” by Jason Mott, and in the series premiere, eight-year-old Jacob Langston (Landon Gimenez) abruptly wakes up, in the middle of a rice field in rural China, with no memory. Immigration agent J. Martin Bellamy (Omar Epps) is assigned to his case, taking the boy to his hometown of Arcadia, Missouri.
Upon finding the child’s parents, Bellamy is shocked to hear that Jacob died 32 years ago. The community is also astounded by the sudden reappearance of the young boy, with some claiming him to be an imposter and others hailing it as a miracle. When another deceased resident appears, the town begins to question the forces bringing those who have passed back into the world of the living.
“Resurrection” focuses on the mystery surrounding Jacob and the circumstances of his death, losing all continuity in the process. At first, the writers hint toward a supernatural force being responsible for the death but then decide to shift the narrative’s focus to the traumatic impact of the sudden return of Jacob to his family. This poor writing and lack of focus proves the show’s biggest problem, as it leads to an overall confusing and lacking plotline.
Charles McDougall’s direction is mediocre as it lacks any form of innovative atmosphere. Scenes meant to incite shock and excitement come off flat due to uninventive cinematography and lack of suspense. McDougall never implements any distinct visual or tone, causing the show to be indistinguishable from the masses of digitally-shot network television shows.
Kelley and Fisher’s performances are the only major highlight of the show. Kelley provides an emotionally-complex performance as Maggie Langston, a young woman with survivor’s guilt over her mother’s death. Fisher’s portrayal of Lucille, Jacob’s grieving mother, is equally strong as she realistically portrays vulnerability and shock in a subtle, nuanced manner that provides an emotional weight to the show.
While ‘Resurrection’ has an intriguing premise and authentic performances, poor writing and direction hinders it from reaching its full potential. Given that the show is only a few episodes in, these flaws may be addressed. However, starting on such a poor note will undoubtably hinder the popularity and ratings of the series.
“Resurrection” airs on Sundays at 9 p.m. on ABC.
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