Cane

I watched all of Cane last night. Decent show, as for if I'm hooked - time will tell. Cane is kind of like what I expected: a Dallas like TV show... Cubans instead of Texians, Florida instead of Texas and Sugar instead of Oil. I kind of chuckled at some of the "Spanish speaking" moments - maybe I can learn Spanish watching this show lol. I think this show can appeal to a lot people regardless of background (white, black, Hispanic), hence you don't have to be Hispanic to enjoy this show. I think it does a good honor to the Hispanic culture and hard working freedom loving Cubans who live here in the United States after a long struggle to gain entry into this nation. (yes they join and serve in the US military too.) But back to my "Dallas" reference. This show is almost a mirror image of "Dallas," just things are different as I had mentioned. There's characters that fit each character in Dallas and there's a big mansion set in the tropics where everyone lives not out in the middle of dusty Texas. There's the old father who likes to ride horse back through the sugar fields as did Jock on the Southfork Ranch. Again, if you look close enough, you'll see these similarities :-) So thumbs up on Cane, but time will tell if I get hooked. I score a 9 out of 10, only because I'm not sure I'm hooked into watching every week just yet.

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

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!

I liked the Trailer better than the first series! Couldn't believe it would start with a murder on the hands of the Lead character - why? I know this is fiction, but most Latin Americans are above board, they have enough hassles with new laws and stereotypes prevailing. I had hoped for a better outcome and the first show left me hanging since the lead as well as supporting cast is incredible in beauty and in substance.

Why did the writers go this route? I hope the following weekly series will allow me to understand the purpose of this. Still I believe the show holds much potential as we watch the younger generation develop to become shining futures that young people are. The Patriach is a wonderful and solid person, his presence as well as wisdom is refreshing. Rita Moreno brings the 'flava' that I enjoy in Latin women, sound as well as lively.

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.