For the past few years, NBC has been the underdog of television networks. It frequently came in last in ratings and was known for its smart comedies that, despite critical acclaim and passionate fans, just couldn’t deliver ratings. Then J.J. Abrams’ “Revolution” premiered, and everything changed.
NBC is having its best season in years, drawing large audiences and often winning over the key 18-49 demographic. The credit for this is largely given to the science fiction show “Revolution.” Thanks partially to the smart choice to air it directly after reality hit “The Voice,” millions of people are tuning in to the post-apocalyptic drama. The show is largely based on its high-concept core: Fifteen years ago, all forms of power stopped working, and the world was plunged into a post-apocalyptic free-for-all. Until now, viewers had been rejecting sci-fi shows with such detailed origin stories, as short-lived series like “V” and “FlashForward” demonstrate. But somehow, “Revolution” has thrived.
Quality alone cannot account for its success, as “Revolution” still has many issues. Tracy Spiridakos’ performance as main character Charlie needs some work, as she often comes across as whiny and unlikeable. There are also some extraneous characters, with Charlie’s band of travelers at least one member too large and many overdeveloped, villainous characters. Then there is Charlie’s brother Danny, whose kidnapping is the impetus for the trek at the plot’s center. But from what we have seen so far, he is better off staying locked up with the militia.
Yet even with these flaws, the audience returns, with last week’s midseason finale even seeing a jump in the ratings. Billy Burke deserves some recognition for a great portrayal of former militia leader Miles, as his scenes are often riveting — though this may be because his scenes are often the most action-packed the show offers.
Out of all of the failed sci-fi shows in recent years, “Revolution” may be a success partly because, in spite of the high-concept backstory, it is still relatable. In a time of growing technological dependence, people are drawn to the idea of a world where it has all disappeared. We watch “Revolution” and wonder what we would do in such a situation. The same idea can be applied to the record-breaking success of AMC’s “The Walking Dead.” The world it presents is clearly removed from our own, but it is also scarily familiar.
But that is what good science fiction does. It presents a completely changed world, rendered almost unrecognizable by some futuristic force — but only almost. When successful, it lays out threads for the audience to hold on to, reeling viewers into the world it creates. It needs some fine-tuning, but “Revolution” has made those threads strong enough and has created a world intriguing enough to bring viewers back to NBC.
A version of this article appeared in the Thursday, Dec. 6 print edition. Samantha Rullo is entertainment editor. Email her at [email protected].
