"Not for review" is an occasional series of pieces in which I offer my thoughts on the pilots for this fall's new shows. These are not reviews, as many of the pilots sent to press aren't final versions. Roles can be recast; scenes can be re-edited and many other changes can be made. These are simply my first impressions based on watching early versions of the shows.
The show: Fox's "Running Wilde"
The premise: Millionaire Steve Wilde (Will Arnett) has everything he could ever want -- except the first real love of his life, Emmy Kadubic (Keri Russell). Emmy is a selfless do-gooder who puts her need to protect a Peruvian tribe above everything else, including her 12-year-old daughter, Puddle (Stefania Owen). When fate reunites Steve and Emmy, he decides he wants to be a better man. But can he?
My thoughts: Expectations are high for "Wilde," as it reunites Arnett with "Arrested Development" mastermind Mitch Hurwitz. The pilot for "Wilde" isn't as brilliant as that for "Arrested," but how many sitcom pilots are? "Wilde" is still a solid offering, and Arnett fills the shoes of leading man surprisingly well. I smiled during the pilot more than I laughed, but I never winced. Plus, Russell and Arnett make an inspired pair. They have nice chemistry, and I can see myself being draw back week after week for them alone.
2 comments:
I have not heard good buzz around this, even with Hurwitz and Arnett. With Mitch's last series "Thick Of It" dying on the vine, he has not had a good few years.
I wasn't impressed with the trailer, but seeing the actual episode gives me hope. Not brilliant, but solidly promising.
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