Cane

Plot: The story follows a large Cuban-American family who own and run a very successful rum and sugar business in Florida. The patriarch is trying to make sure his business is in good hands as he looks the three men who will carry on his tradition. However, the brothers all have a different approach as to how they should deal with rivalries inside and outside of the family.

What I liked: The cast all gave stellar performances! There weren't any gaps in plot or character development, so it was very easy to get drawn right in to the story.

What I disliked: Nothing!

Why it will/won't make it: This is more of a family drama, so it may draw in viewers who were not normally watching during these hours. This is a very well cast and scripted show, and I don't foresee it being received poorly. The only problem may be that it is on too late for the larger target audience. I hope that CBS doesn't cancel this great show like it did to Jericho (even though they are bringing it back for a short period). This show is really likely to get some awards! This is my surprise hit for 2007 (Ugly Betty was my surprise hit for 2006).

Final review: Watch while it's airing!

In the day, there was Dallas, Dynasty, and Falcon Crest. Today, there is Cane, a drama set in the Florida everglades with sugar cane barons vying for power, money, and influence. Jimmy Smits plays Alex Vega, a strong and believable adopted son, who is committed to protecting his family and sustaining the family business. Hector Elizondo's portrays a proud Cuban patriarch who has lived the American dream, in spite of his vindictive neighbor, Joe Samuels, played by Ken Howard. Frank, played by Nestor Carbonell, is the son who has mixed loyalties. The women of Cane played by Rita Morena, Polly Walker, and Paola Turbay add interesting dimensions to the plot. Polly Walker as Ellis Samuels us caught between being Frank's girlfriend and Joe Samuels' daughter. Paola Turbay as Isabel Vega adds glamor and sex appeal. She is levelheaded is contrast to Alex's headstrong and impulsive behavior. These contrasts throughout the plot and strong character development, add depth and interest. This is a powerful and entertaining drama.

I think the fade out scene in episode #10 ("Time Away") with Alex Vega (Jimmy Smits) gazing into the Gulf wondering just how he got himself into his present situation, accompanied by the pulsating sound of "Outside" by Staind, is the single most captivating and meaningful scene that I have seen in television in recent years. CBS just has to stand by this show and accept the fact that it is simply too good to ever command a high ratings audience. In fact, CBS president Les Moonves ought to take Cane's less than stellar ratings as a compliment. This show is terrific.

Mark

Watched the anticipated show and I thought it was wonderful. I think I am already hooked and I can't wait for next week's episode. Great job CBS, great show, great choice, excellent decision to put together this kind of show and run it. The colors are a little like those of CSI Miami very bright and colorful. Wonderful cast as well. It also reminds me a little of a movie called "A Walk in the Clouds" whose setting is in the Napa Valley of California. Another reminder is of the show Dynasty but with beautiful writing, heart and soul. I hope the same goes for this promising show called CANE.

Generally I do not watch network TV but there are now two shows that will bring me back to watching network TV. One of them is House and now CANE. Awesome show, just loved it.

I am truly rooting for the show to be a success, we need more entertainment like this on network TV instead of the typical "moron" shows.

Great Job!

I recently watched the pilot episode and can't wait for more. Jimmy Smits and the supporting cast are sensational. They draw you in and give you the true feeling of how important family is. Just like the feeling you may have had the first time you saw the Godfather. With one big difference, this family runs a legal business. The pilot episode does a fantastic job of bringing you into the family's life and establishing each character. Then the drama starts to slowly build leading up to...I'll leave all you readers with just that.This will be another keeper for CBS. So make sure to check it out. I don't believe you will be disappointed.