The only reason I can see the SyFy Channel’s new superhero show “Alphas” working out is because it’s on the SyFy Channel, so the need to get major ratings quickly isn’t there. This is good news, especially if you’re a fan of other superhero shows that have come and gone like “Heroes”, “The Cape”, or “No Ordinary Family”. What do all three shows have in common? They were on major networks, and had to bring in the ratings or else. “Alphas” won’t have that problem, though of course, it probably needs to do SOME business or it, too, might get yank pretty fast.
In any case, here’s the first short TV spot for the show. It doesn’t look all that impressive, unfortunately, but maybe we just need to see more.
When a witness is inexplicably murdered in a locked room at a federal courthouse, Section 8 (under the auspices of the National Security Agency) is put on the case. Lead by Dr. Leigh Rosen, the team has but one mandate – locate and assess the threats posed by “alphas,” human beings with enhanced abilities due to differences in their brain structure. Joining Rosen in his quest are four such alphas – Gary Bell, a highly functioning autistic with an ability to process information that rivals most computers; Bill Harken, a former FBI agent who can amp up his “fight or flight” reflex, giving him extraordinary strength for a brief period of time; Nina Theroux, a beautiful woman who can reprogram other people’s minds to do as she bids; and Rachel Myers, an orthodox Jew who can shatter glass with but a whisper. However with said powers comes a price – for Gary, autism which makes him a child for all intents and purposes; for Harken, severe anger issues that cost him his job and family; for Rachel, living life as a near mute and being forced to wear an electronic device against her larynx; and Nina, never really knowing how those close to her actually feel. In any case, they’ve all come together for the common good with Rosen as their mentor, teaching them to further control their abilities with each passing day. As for the courthouse murder, it’s not long before the team uncovers that one of their own kind was responsible – Christian Hicks, a former Marine sharpshooter with supernatural balance and aim (he guided the bullet through a ventilation duct). After bringing him in though, they realize someone even more powerful was pulling the strings… someone with a new technology that can be used to mimic one of the team’s gifts.
Starring Ryan Cartwright, David Strathairn, Malik Yoba, and Laura Mennell. The show was co-created by Zak Penn, who has written his share of superhero movies “X-Men: Last Stand”, “Fantastic Four”, and “Elektra”.
Look for it in the Summer.
Thanks to Rick for the heads up.
