NOTE: This post is spoiler-free and explores only the most basic premise of the show.

What is Revolution?

Revolution is a new television show premiering on NBC on Monday, September 17 at 10pm (9pm Central). Set in the current day, all forms of power and technology are suddenly and inexplicably rendered inoperative, including not only electricity, but batteries and engines of all kinds. The impact is worldwide and seemingly permanent.  As a result of this catastrophic event, society as we know it is devastated. The story picks up with our characters 15 years later.

What is Dystopia?

A “dystopia” is a fictional construct where a radically different and imperfect future society is portrayed. It often involves themes of danger, fear and oppression. Dystopian fiction seems to be all the rage right now. Look at the popularity of TV shows like “The Walking Dead”, and books like “The Hunger Games”. Even the 5th season of Fringe is set in a future dystopia. This kind of fiction, much like science fiction in general, is a way to hold a magnifying glass up to certain aspects of the human condition. It examines how people react in the face of adversity, portrays the human will to survive and asks questions such as:  At the end of the day, when all the trappings of a modern society are stripped away, what matters most?

Why should I watch Revolution?

The what-if scenarios behind the show’s premise are just one aspect of the dramatic fodder the writers have at their disposal. However, it will take more than just a look into life post-blackout to keep viewers like me interested. These are the things that the writers should do to keep me coming back for more.

Entertain me!

High concept is one thing, but if the subject matter is too heady or feels like a lecture in the evils of modern living, you will lose your audience quickly.  Yes, immerse me in a different world (it worked for James Cameron in “Avatar”).  But also give me some action and adventure while you are at it. Adventure stories are ultimately about the journey, not the destination. Wherever our gang is headed, we want to come along for a fun and exciting ride. It doesn’t hurt to throw in some swordplay and witty dialog while you are at it.

Move me!

Character, character, character. Like the real estate mantra “location, location, location”, what really keeps people coming back week to week is to find out what happens next to the characters that they have grown to know and love (or hate). Based on the track record of the show’s creative team, I believe they do know this mantra and can deliver the goods. See Darrell’s recent blog post for more information on this topic.

Surprise me!

No one could have predicted the wild ride that Lost (the television show) would eventually take us on when we first crash landed on that strange and mysterious island. JJ Abrams knows what we like, but he also knows what we don’t like – predictability. My hope is that Revolution strives to be unique and stand out among the crowded genre.

Question of the Week

What would you miss the most if we experienced the blackout?

Respond in the comments section below! For me, it would be my music. Yes, I know, music as a whole would not disappear entirely. However, my beloved ear-splitting rock band music would forever be lost inside a useless little rectangular box with a fruit logo.

So with music in mind, I leave you with my pick for a theme song for NBC’s Revolution:

30 Seconds to Mars — “R-evolve”

Lights out!