January 29, 2002 — 1 PM

On Screen This Winter

Alright, has anyone else fallen victim to CBC’s latest “epic mini-series”?

I don’t watch a great amount of television, but since I don’t have cable, I tune in to the national broadcaster frequently enough to have been thoroughly saturated with the ads for the latest in a dynasty of CBC-backed historical dramas, this one entitled Random Passage. (Sidenote: whoever names these things — hello, Wind Up My Cr––k — has never pondered the cruel rhymes they might unleash.)

Inevitably all CBC historical dramas are set in the boondocks of the 19th century Canadian landscape, replete with small-town accents heavy on the Irish and the family strife and hardship that reflected our fair people’s struggle to forge a nation, eh?

The only trouble is, after seeing that blasted promotion 2367 times (“I done the work o’ two men, and I wants me share like anyone else!”), I actually found myself in front of the TV on Sunday night and then found myself actually watching the series.

And… well, gosh if I didn’t find myself wrapped up in the troubles of Newfoundland pioneers. This particular series, an Irish-Canadian co-production, actually overcomes the traps that ensnare most Canadian drama: hammy acting by two-bit Cancon actors, cheap period costumes, lack of plot. Although Random Passage still has the obligatory bits of overripe dialogue (see above).

Thus I am confused by this new-found appreciation I have developed. What next? Move to Mississauga and join the Young Liberals?

Previously: Le mot noir

Subsequently: Take Your Business Somewhere Else!

January 2002
the Archives
Home