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Fox is hoping that 24 will generate the much needed momentum
for the network struggling with poor ratings for The X-Files
and Ally McBeal. In India both of them air on Star World.
As reported earlier by indiantelevision.com each episode
represents an hour of a day. Therefore the action is taking place
in real time. The new season picks up three years after the second
season. The main character counter terrorist agent Jack Bauer played
by Golden Globe winner Kiefer Sutherland is said to be more reckless,
bitter and cynical. While he was able to stop an assassination attempt
on presidential candidate David Palmer his wife was killed in the
last episode of the second season. This naturally leaves Jack racked
with guilt.
As far as the show's format is concerned what was different was
that the premiere episode which aired a couple of days ago in the
US was commercial-free. This was achieved through a sponsorship
deal with an automaker.
However reports indicate that some industry observers have felt
that the move was counter productive. After all the end of each
section of 24 leaves one with a feeling of breathless anticipation.
No breaks made it feel less exciting as the brief wait was not there.
Yet again the plot revolves around a threat against the White House.
For the emotional quotient Jack is given a new love played by Sarah
Wynter.
The audiences ability to suspend disbelief will be tested. Last
season it was fine that Jack left his family's safety to other counter
terrorism agents while he took care of business. He could not have
known that his wife would be killed. Now though it is strange to
say the least that he entrusts his daughters safety to the Counter
Terrorism Unit yet again.
The producers Joel Surnow and Robert Cochran were quoted in reports
saying, "President Palmer (Dennis Haysbert) is back - although not
as you remember him. So, too, is Kim (Elisha Cuthbert). However
at 21, she is older and wiser. We have also added a new series regular,
Chase Edmunds (James Badge Dale), a young partner for Jack who we
think will be a terrific addition to the cast."
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