Starts Sky1, early-October
If you miss The X Files, or wish the CSIs would tackle the odd paranormal case, Fringe is for you. From the warped mind of Lost, Alias and Cloverfield creator JJ Abrams, Fringe focuses on the brave new world of fringe science, a decidedly grey area where only a thin line separates pioneering research from unethical, criminal experimentation that big business and evil conglomerates are keen to profit from.
Investigating these scientific infractions and freaks of nature are FBI agent Olivia Dunham (Anna Torv), troubled genius Dr Walter Bishop (John Noble) and his mixed-up son Peter (Joshua Jackson). Also mixed up in this murky world is special agent Phillip Broyles (Lance Reddick) – though whether Olivia and co can actually trust him is another matter as we soon learn a shadowy scientific conspiracy is at work in the world. There is a pattern linking these freaky cases and our heroes must try to crack it.
The feature-length pilot is scary, enthralling and conspiracy-packed. Crammed with more thrills and spills than your typical Hollywood blockbuster, it sets up the premise nicely, tentatively introducing us to the mysterious firm Massive Dynamic that seems somehow linked to the increasing number of instances of strange scientific phenomena.
Fringe is Sky1′s big purchase for the autumn and has received rave reviews in the States, while JJ Abrams promises that it will jump the shark early and often. We loved the pilot and early word on the next few episodes is that they’ll be equally jumpy. To get a taste of what’s to come, have a gander at this preview comic, enjoy one of the many trailers doing the rounds, or – like us – be confused at why Fox is releasing a variety of pop videos featuring clips from the show.
• Click here to read our other posts on Fringe
• Click here for more great new US shows coming to a screen near you this autumn
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