I just watched the first six episodes of Big Love--Season 2 on DVD. So far, I'm very impressed. As I've probably said before, this show could easily have become a farce or a satirical look at Mormon Fundamentalists or of faith in general. While I do not think that the actual show accurately depicts the "typical" polygamist lifestyle in 2007 USA, I believe the emotions that are echoed are genuine.
Not a lot of shows really highlight issues of faith on a regular basis. (A couple of exceptions: 1) Six Feet Under which brought up some really profound topics during its six year run, and 2) Supernatural which has had a couple of faith-focused episodes, notably "Faith" and "Houses of the Holy.") This is the only show I can think of where characters routinely question their actions and try to make decisions in line with God's purpose. Of course, they often fail miserably, use "God's purpose" as justification for all sorts of selfish and immoral choices and become confused. But hey-- look around! That's reality too.
In addition, this show has some outstanding actors. Just because I already loved these two from Veronica Mars, I have to mention Amanda Seyfried (Sarah on BL; Lily on VM) and Tina Majorino (Heather on BL; Mac on VM). These two young actresses are amazing in the way they can portray understated emotion. It really makes their performances that much more profound. This season, Amanda's character (a senior in high school and the oldest child in the Big family) is really distancing herself from the Mormon faith and polygamy...which still trying to remain supportive. Her conflicts play out so well just in her eyes-- as tears start to well up, as she shuts people out, as she is resigned to a situation. And Tina Majorino is a former child actress who can actually ACT! Although Douglas Smith (Ben) is a 22 year old playing a 16 year old (and looks a little too old for the part), he has a certain mix of vulnerability, innocence and sensuality that is appealing for this character. He wants to do the right thing, he wants to live THE PRINCIPLE, he wants to stop having sex with his girlfriend (at least in theory). But he's a teen guy who 1) despite the Big family is rather isolated (since fundamentalists are not welcome in the Mormon church), and 2) is trying to figure out how to live his faith with new temptations.
Okay, well, I was going to talk about the wives, but it looks like the teens rule the day for now. I don't know that anyone who reads this blog (if anyone does) would like the show, but if you watch it with an open mind, you might be surprised. A caveat-- it is rated TV-MA.
Also, so far Season 2 has a lot less gratuitous sex and nudity. Depending on your perspective, that could be a plus or minus. It probably has more violence, arson and manipulation though.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment