ALARIS' REVIEWS

11th January 2009
The 4400 (2004)

This four season, science fiction television series is another solid performer from perennial favourite, producer René Echevarria.

René Echevarria has been the creative force behind many TV series I've enjoyed, including Star Trek: TNG, Star Trek: DS9, Now and Again, and Dark Angel. The 4400 displays the same intellectual curiosity, respect for characters, and solid plotting that I've come to expect from Echevarria's projects.

The series is set in current day Seattle. Over the past 100 years, random individuals have gone missing all over the world. Suddenly, 4400 individuals are returned in a ball of light, all with mysterious powers and with no idea what happened.

The 4400 tries to take a realistic look at how the world, its governments, and its people deal with such a bizarre, fascinating and threatening development. The two main characters are federal agents Diana Skouris and Tom Baldwin, whose job is to keep an eye on these 4400 returnees, and respond to the issues that arise.

Skouris and Baldwin are two of the most grounded, sensible, and responsible protagonists I've ever come across, and the actors do an excellent job of conveying their human doubts, affections, and dry sense of humour. It's a very ensemble show, populated by distinctive returnees (such as the healer, the cult leader, the noble fighter pilot, the creepy girl who sees the future), as well as interesting antagonists (such as the head of NTAC).

The 4400 constantly delivers dramatic plot developments, and presents difficult issues in compelling stories. The high stakes global events are neatly balanced with the personal storylines, making The 4400 a very watchable show with a strong sense of optimism.

The biggest disappointment is probably the fact that the creaters were expecting a fifth season, so the series end feels more like a season end. Nonetheless, four years is a good run for a deserving show.

Verdict: A solid, engaging, mature science fiction series with both a head and a heart.

If you like Star Trek: DS9, you might like this.