posted on Mar, 16 2009 @ 09:34 PM
Did anyone catch Kings on NBC last night? It was one of the more interesting things I've caught on TV in a while.
I have long been a fan of alternate universe/history fiction like Harry Turtledove and C.S. Goto. The story of David and Goliath was one of my
favorites in Sunday School as a kid. As I grew in maturity and life the whole David story has always been one of my favorite parts of the Bible. David
is truly one of the examples of how God loves and works even through us flawed humans. I have also enjoyed some modern adaptations of ancient and
timeless stories. Two examples that come to mind are the nineties version of Romeo and Juliet which was a very near retelling of a Shakespear classic
set in a modern gang war and "O Brother! Where Art Thou?" which was loosely based on Homer's Odessy. Certain stories remain relevant in the right
hands even after hundreds or even thousands of years because they directly relate to the human condition.
I guess because of these things I was predisposed to like the premier of Kings. Technically it was impressive. The cinematography was wonderful. The
acting despite a couple of cases of overacting was superb. I'm really impressed with NBC for having the guts to air this. It's different, I only
hope that the viewing public gives it a chance. There are a couple but minor points in the premier I found implausible, but they weren't glaring plot
holes.
From a purely Christian perspective I am predisposed to view almost anything Hollywood touches through very skeptical glasses. However, with just the
premiere I'm rather pleased at the way this was told. It's the job of Sunday school teacher, youth ministers, rabbi's, and preachers to tell the
story of David in a way that inspires us to learn from his mistakes and lead a better life. Though I firmly believe Hollywood has a responsibility to
treat a story held very close to the hearts of Jews and Christians alike with some respect, Hollywood's main responsibility in the retelling is for
it to be entertaining.
So did anyone else catch it? If so what are your thoughts.