It’s ironic that one of the most popular shows of this decade hasn’t been heard from in over a year. That’s because of a lot of things, but mostly last year’s writer’s strike. It wasn’t slated to finally return until last January, and the strike made that impossible– no one would want to watch only 13 hours of a day when the show is called “24.”

As odd as it sounds, this will be the eigth year since the show’s inception, but only it’s seventh season. The new season begins in January, but a lead-up 2 hour TV-movie airs this Sunday. Apparently Jack’s on the run from the government again while working as a missionary in Africa. Man, the guy just can’t get a break.

Yes, the film will be in real-time, and will bridge the gap between the sixth and seveth seasons. The producers are using it as a test to see if people are interested in a theatrical Jack Bauer film. I’m not sure why this is necessary; there’s no doubt in my mind that the audience is there, or that it would bring in new fans just being an action movie with as big a name as Kiefer Sutherland. But I’m not complaining either. As much as I disliked season 6, I’ve missed Jack Bauer quite a lot.

The producers are saying if “24: Redemption” does well and they go ahead with a theatrical film, it probably won’t be entirely in real-time. They’re thinking of doing the first part in regular story-telling format, and then starting the real-time clock in the last third of the movie, to satisfy die-hard fans but ease new viewers into the format. I think this is an excellent idea, and much better than doing it all one way or the other. I’ve always hoped the movie would feel like 24 and not just be “The Jack Bauer Movie,” and it looks like I might get my wish.

Join me next week for a full review!

LLAP

-Cap’n Logan