A vintage drama filled a superb cast, terrific scenery and a smart plotline is what makes up the gears that drives the train known as “Hell On Wheels.”
This new drama from AMC delivers big in its premiere. Set in the 1860s, this new drama centers on former confederate soldier Cullen Bohannan, played by Anson Mount, (“Straw Dogs”) whose quest for vengeance has led him to the Union Pacific Railroad’s westward construction of the first Transcontinental Railroad.
The first scene of this drama will have the audience hooked from the start. We see the main character begin his quest for vengeance as he embarks on a his journey. The pilot however does die down a bit as we are introduced to each of the characters of the show as well as their individual stories. But this is customary in any pilot.
At the same time, the camera work for this series is fantastic and makes each character feel special. You’ll never doubt that you’re in a world quite different from your own.
The acting was a bit spotty at times, with a few mumbles here and there, but the action that comes with it sure makes up for it. While the first half of the show focused mostly on the main characters and the several plot lines, the second half comes at you with a massive intensity, as a group of Indians come and take out the several slaves and their owners occupying their territory.
The murder scenes were realistic, as the Indians came through with their bows and arrows and knives, the gore will have you squeamish. This show does a tremendous job making the kills look realistic, as there were many characters who were stabbed while dripping blood.
A drama needs direction in order to become successful. With “Hell On Wheels” the direction it seems to be going towards will be a treat for the audience, as the suspense, characters, and plot lines from the pilot will seem to have the audience rooting and raving about AMC’s new show.
Overall, “Hell On Wheels” looks to have everything going for it. It thus far has got the audience by the throat and have them interested from here on out. The message that this show sends is that blood will be spilled, lives will be lost, fortunes will be maid and men will be ruined. If that doesn’t get you excited for what’s to come then this show does not have your interest.
“Hell On Wheels” will be one hell of a ride. The pilot is sheer evidence of that.
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