Granite Flats

This is BYUtv's first attempt create a family series on a limited budget, so I was concerned it would be cheesy or poorly done. That was true at first, but then they learned from their mistakes, and things got really interesting...

Season 1: 5/10 stars. A few good moments. Persevere.

Season 2 (first half): 7/10 stars. Improving. Important changes in scripting and acting make a *big* difference.

Season 2 (last half): 8/10 stars overall. Added some big name talent, impressive script developments, characters start to come to life.

Season 2 (finale): 10/10 stars. Brilliant! They are hitting on all cylinders now.

Season 3: Can't wait to see. I feel like I *must* watch it.

You'll have trouble understanding season 2 if you don't wade through season 1. IMO it was worth it. Think of it as an example of "agile" business methods (like they used for the iPhone, etc.)--get it out there quickly, learn from your mistakes, improve rapidly based on actual feedback.

This series falls into the category of never-ending-plot-threads-involving-weird-characters- and-mystery. I confess, I like these types of shows. Granite Flats is a milder version of Twin Peaks and a less polished creation in the image of Lost. The characters are quirky, but several are more single dimensional or less interesting than the characters of either of these other shows.

What I find quite interesting (and something I have no explanation for) is the dialog -- it is mostly done in that same style the Cohen Bros used in True Grit -- reminiscent of a formal and someone stilted style that one could imagine being employed by characters from the 19th century.

I have read reviews that criticize this show because of bad acting or bad editing or bad writing. It is a small budget production. I totally get that this show is not necessarily going to appeal to the broadest audience. But I think many aspects of the show are stylistic choices made by the creators. They want the characters to be like this and talk this way, and they want the scenes and POV's to seem choppy and somewhat disjointed.

Just one man's opinion. I like the show.

I've really enjoyed watching the first season of Granite Flats. The story is interesting and keeps me guessing, and I like the 1960s era setting. It's nice to have a show that adults, children, and teenagers can watch together and there is something for everyone.

I love how the opening title sequence really sets the tone for the show: it's 1960s nostalgic and kind of gives you a feel for what the town of Granite Flats is like. The lyrics about the end of the world hint at the suspicion and fear that were part of the Cold War era, and which are very much alive in the town.

I also really appreciate being able to watch an entertaining show without worrying about anything objectionable coming on. It's definitely a refreshing change from the norm.

Great show!

A refreshing change to the "push the envelope" mentality in many dramas out there. The show is simple and I suppose will get a little more complex as the story lines are allowed to develop. The actors are good and play it simple, which is fine. There is no need to over due it with the time period, the culture, or the storyline. There is a good balance of realism mixed with a little fantasy that is believable. As more episodes air, we will continue to bond with the characters. The only negative I have to share is that the editing is a little choppy and some scenes seemed hurried. I try to absorb the character or characters on the screen before the screen keeps changing the points of view too quickly. I think that can be worked out easily enough going forward. Hopefully the series will be allowed a second season.

Completely enjoyable for all ages and non Mormon's need not fear this is a proselytizing tool. While the show is wholesome and honors Later Day Saint moral standards there is no direct or indirect Mormon content in the production.

The plot is interesting and holds your attention, young and old. You should note that it is a serial and needs to be viewed in sequence.

The cast and writing work well and any unevenness is easily forgiven when you accept that this is after all a University production.

If you enjoyed shows in the past like Sky King or Lassie and lament that TV has lost its sense of innocence you will love this.

The episodes are free to watch on the BYUTV web page so you can give the first episode a test run and see for yourself what I like about this production.