24: Redemption
Serving as a bridge between Seasons 6 and 7 of the acclaimed action TV series, this was actually thrown together ¾ of the way through the filming of Season 7, whose production was held up due to star Kiefer Sutherland’s legal problems as a way to satisfy the fans’ craving while waiting over a year for more 24. Writing-wise, it’s the same standard fare, with its story being carried out in real time over a 2 hour period, more than enough time for its writers to develop (and kill off) new characters in the mythology. It also shows the transition of power between the Presidents, as Powers Boothe’s Noah Daniels (who presumably assumed full control after Wayne Palmer either died or was physically unable to perform) cedes power to new female President Allison Taylor (Cherry Jones, in a role obviously inspired by Frau Hillary). The Jack Bauer portion of the story takes place entirely in a fictional African country, and it’s clear that the show’s producers had watched Blood Diamond, for this too shows how African militia groups (funded by American interests) make a point of recruiting children into their fold and indoctrinate them at a young age to kill without remorse. Bauer at the time is currently assisting at a refugee boy’s home (which attracts the militia like Jonah Hill to an all you can eat buffet) and must find himself swinging into action again to kick some ass and protect the innocent. Indeed after waiting almost a full hour to see Bauer in action, the producers show that they are still able to create a visceral, edge-of-your-seat action showcase while remaining within the tight boundaries of the broadcast TV medium. The build-up IS a little prolonged though, showing how Bauer has befriended one of the little boys (who takes a liking to a dress that Jack had bought for his daughter!) and is just helping out while trying to decide if he should answer a subpoena to come to Washington D.C. to answer questions about torturing dangerous terrorists to death. However, things are helped along greatly by the casting of a major actor as Bauer’s old friend and founder of the school: Robert Carlyle brings weight and presence to the film as he helps Jack cope with his decision and proves worthy of kicking some ass in his own right, right up to his emotional final scene which paves the way for Jack to return to America (along with giving the boys political asylum there and saving their lives) and get things rolling on Season 7. While none of the CTU regulars play a role in this, we do get to meet some new characters (obviously to be fleshed out on the show), most notably Jon Voight as possibly a new BigBad mastermind. Overall, a must-see if you are a fan of the show brought up by some good acting…
7/10