Should You Tune In For Ron Moore’s ‘Virtuality’?
The pilot to Ronald D. Moore’s first sci-fi outing since Battlestar Galactica will be shown in the US today (June 26) at 8pm on Fox.
Virtuality tells the story of twelve crew members aboard Earth’s first deep space vessel (the Phaeton) and how they use a virtual reality computer program to deal with a 10 year long journey through space. The story unfolds just as their mission is about to enter its critical phase when a virus infects the system putting all of their lives on the line. Tensions mount as the crew decides how to contain the virus and complete their mission whilst the whole time their lives are being streamed as a reality show back on Earth.
It is well known that the two-hour pilot for Virtuality was meant to be the prelude to a new science fiction series, however Fox has yet to give it the green-light. Since it is widely believed that Fox don’t intend to green-light the series many people are wondering why they should bother to tune in to watch a story that, essentially, will most likely go nowhere.
The answer is twofold.
First, Virtuality has all the makings of a great series and as disappointing as a full stop at the end of the two-hour pilot may be, the pilot itself offers enjoyable viewing. More on that below.
Second, the notion that Fox won’t green-light the series is not one set in concrete. In fact, it is still possible that if the pilot attracts enough attention Fox will green-light the series. One thing is for certain about Fox and Virtuality – the publicists at Fox have been working overtime to promote the pilot. If you’re looking for a glimmer of hope that the series may still find the light of day, then Fox’s efforts to promote a supposedly dead series surely provides it. Add to that the rumors that Virtuality may also have a chance at finding a home elsewhere and yes, hope is not completely gone yet.
So given that a series is possible, however unlikely, what can you expect if you do devote two hours of your time to tune in to watch the pilot?
Perhaps the best way to answer that question is to provide some excerpts from the comments of a number of reviewers:
From Sci Fi Pulse:
It feels like a sophisticated and bold show that would normally be found on HBO or Showtime…If you like the style of writing used in Battlestar Galactica you’ll probably enjoy Virtuality…In many ways this potential series that would normally be an exploration of outer space is actually the exploration of inner space. I find the possibilities for storytelling fascinating and would like to see where such a series could take us…8.5 out of 10.
From Alpha Airlock:
“Virtuality” is great television that’ll force you to scratch your chin, but demand more.
From The Watcher:
The intriguing ‘Virtuality’ doesn’t deserve to be lost in space…”Virtuality” does what a television pilot is supposed to do: It piques the viewer’s interest in what will happen next. So is this complex and intriguing film worth watching, knowing that the questions that percolate through it will likely never be answered? The answer is yes, if you’re a sci-fi buff and/or a fan of the show’s creators, Ronald D. Moore and Michael Taylor, who are veterans of the acclaimed “Battlestar Galactica.”
From The New York Times:
While it ought to be said that “Virtuality” seems created to alienate any but the pointiest science-fiction fans (civilians might prefer the weekend backup on I-95 just outside New Haven), it is an impressively credentialed and stylish bit of television moviemaking, an exploration not merely of our practical dependence on technology but also of our psychological and nearly eroticized addiction to it.
From Wired:
Excellent acting bolsters thoughtful premise…So does Virtuality work as a one-off movie? Meh. As a series kickoff? Oh yeah.
From Boston.com:
The end of “Virtuality’’ tonight isn’t sloppy so much as it’s actually a beginning. Character introductions have been made, plots have been set in motion, huge mysteries have been raised. Now what? Roll credits. So I hesitate to recommend “Virtuality,’’ even while I praise it. As a setup, the two creepily atmospheric hours are promising and thought-provoking.
So what’s my opinion?
Virtuality is a pilot that requires a thoughtful viewer who is interested in the contemplation of the philosophical. It offers intelligent sci-fi and a provocative introduction to a potential series that, if it goes ahead, will hook viewers looking for a story with substance whilst alienating those that prefer neuron obliterating television like Big Brother and American Idol.
Should you watch the pilot?
Absolutely. Just because it could go nowhere doesn’t mean it will and if you tune in, who knows, maybe you’ll help Fox make a positive decision to give it a chance. Plus, it also helps to know that the pilot may be all you ever see of Virtuality before you tune in. For once rather than investing your time thinking something will be, you can invest your time knowing that it most likely won’t be. Either way though, if you’re into smart sci-fi, Virtuality is worth your time.
