24

Reviewed by:
Gene Newman

Within the first two episodes of 24’s new season, you’ll note that this day’s not looking quite as bright, though it’s still the best show on network TV. Day 3 clocks in three years after counter-terrorism agent Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland) saved Los Angeles from nuclear attack, with terrorists now plotting to unleash a devastating biological blitz on L.A. unless a convicted drug kingpin is released from prison. The hitch? Bauer spent the last six months destroying what remained of his already decimated personal life to put said kingpin away—and if you know Jack, you know he’s pretty damn persistent.

These episodes were impressive, though at times they smacked of daytime drama (what, CTU office romance can’t wait till, say, tomorrow?), and we fear the show is painting itself into a corner with Jack’s newly acquired behavioral traits, even though they are pretty damn compelling. Then again, every time we’ve doubted 24, we’ve been proven fools. Plus, as long as it’s on the air, there’ll be two certainties that ensure we tune in: Elisha Cuthbert is so cute it should be illegal, and you never really know what the hell’s gonna happen next.

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