Sunday, January 12, 2014

"Helix" Debuts a Strong and Deadly Episode with "Pilot:" A Television Review

Director: Jeffrey Reiner.

Writer: Cameron Porsandeh.

Cast: Hiroyuki Sanada, Billy Campbell, Jordan Hayes, Kyra Zagorsky, Neil Napier, Mark Ghanimé and Meegwun Fairbrother.

The SyFy Network debuted a new show January, 10th, 2014, titled "Helix." This show was developed by some of the creators of "Battlestar Galactica," including producer Ronald D. Moore. This latest show also utilizes science fiction, but there is a lot of horror here, too. "Helix" is a worst cast scenario set in the Arctic Circle and the show offers lots of thrills. A truly entertaining and exciting experience, fans of sci-fi would be well served to take a look at this show's first airing, simply titled "Pilot."

In the story, an infection has broken out at a research facility in the Arctic Circle. The American military has been notified and so have members of the Center for Disease Control. Scientists from both governmental organizations are dispatched to the huge football like building, to stop the spread of a retrovirus. Unfortunately, the disease is spreading through the facility like a cold chill. Soon, everyone's survival is at risk.

The viral symptoms of the infected run the gamut. Several doctors and scientists display strange behaviours. Case zero, Peter (Neil Napier) and the protagonist's brother, is hostile, paranoid and delusional. Later cases experience hallucinations and the desire to infect others, through a dangerous and bloody kiss. The infected are truly horrifying in this series.

The writing also delivers a deadly scenario. What could be worse than being stranded on an isolated base, where crazed others want to kill you? The series' settings and scenarios are truly chilling. The infection spreads quickly and the administrators of the base are not interested in helping members of the CDC. Instead, secrets are being maintained and the chaos is increasing, because of this withholding. The thrills will only increase as the body count rises.

"Helix" is a well written and superbly produced television series, so far. The characters in the series and research team, consisting of: Alan (Billy Campbell), Julia (Kyra Zagorsky), Sergio (Mark Ghanime), Doreen (Catherine Lemieux) and Sarah (Jordan Hayes) are each interesting in their own way. Alan is hopeful to cure his brother, Peter, of his infection, while developing romantic feelings for Sarah. Alan is also moving past a previous marital relationship with Julia. Basically, the relationships on the shop are complicated. All of these interactions are relayed with a talented shooting style from director Jeffrey Reiner. The camera is often used in tight spaces like vents and in dark research rooms. This use of the camera amplifies the series' horrific elements. As well, the acting from the relatively small cast is well done. The actors are competent and emotions and lines are delivered in a compelling fashion, while not being over done. Overall, the production team and cast have brought an excellent show to television.

The Arctic has gotten even more dangerous with this worst case scenario, for "Helix." An infection is spreading and there is no escape for the characters. Most viewers and fans of sci-fi, or horror will enjoy the plot devices here. And, this reviewer is curious to see what happens next in Epis. 2, titled "Vector. Those looking for scares and tension will find something to enjoy here.

*the character Doreen Boyle is attacked in a similar way by a monkey from Danny Boyle's 28 Days Later. This character's name is not a coincidence and it is a gentle nod to Boyle's earlier film.

The show's homepage is here:

Helix on SyFy


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