Hiatus for "Flash Forward"
It looks like "Flash Forward" is taking an unscheduled break.
Sources indicate that ABC has 'temporarily shut down production' on the drama. Although this could be a simple break (it's only scheduled for six days), for me, warning bells are sounding!
The official word is that the the show was designed to have this type of break to give the writers an opportunity to maintain the quality level of the show. But, other events indicate that this may be a more dire move.
First, the show has lost two executive producers and co-showrunners since the pilot. This leaves David Goyer as the sole man in charge of the show. Goyer is capable, but is also working on his film projects, such as "Ghost Rider 2" (and that, in itself, is pretty scary). Everyone involved seems to be working on other projects.
Next, after a blockbuster premiere, the "Flash Forward" ratings have steadily declined, falling to a new low this week.
Finally, the show, in my opinion, has not lived up to expectations. It's...(how should I say this)...boring. Seriously.
I found the initial concept intriguing, but the execution has not been that compelling. Particularly disturbing (and I can't pinpoint if it is the acting or the writing here) is the portrayal of the FBI Assistant Director Stanford Wedeck, by Courtney B. Vance. Vance has done good work in the past, but here, there have been several cringe-worthy lines.
In addition, I have actually told people to 'fast forward through any scene involving Olivia - you won't miss anything'. Honesty, the storyline with her and Simcoe is not working for me at all. It seems repetitious and the couple lacks chemistry.
Perhaps the break will be the right cure for the ailments of this show. There are a few bright spots to work with, such as Dominic Monaghan (Charlie from "Lost") as Dr. Simon Campos and John Cho as Agent Demetri Noh. But, there is a lot of work to do to make this show a must-see each week.
The mid-season finale for "Flash Forward" will be shown on December 3rd....and, it might be back in 2010.