Pilot preview: How ABC may win with Joss Whedon, ‘Once Upon a Time,’ David Spade
When we wrote about the current pilots that are out there for CBS, we had nothing but positive things to say. After all, how do you go against a network that at the moment has the likes of Robin Williams, Josh Holloway, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Rupert Grint all hoping to be on the network in the fall? It’s an incredibly impressive field, and it just goes to show that television’s most-watched network is capable of bringing in big names.
In going over to ABC, meanwhile, we have a situation that is far more enigmatic. There are some promising shows, but even some of the pilots that are worth checking out right now are not exactly ones that people know very much about. We’re not going to waste much time here when it comes to an introduction; let’s just say that these are picks based on our personal perception, and are not necessarily what ABC’s executives may be thinking.
“Super Fun Night” – Easily, this is the biggest lock among ABC’s comedies right now. Rebel Wilson is a big-time rising star, and despite the long road that this show (which was originally at another network) has taken to get to the air, this is going to happen.
“Bad Management” – David Spade’s “Rules of Engagement” is almost sure to be canceled after a surprising seven seasons, but this show should give him an opportunity to be a little bit more creative as a guy desperate to target younger demographics at a luxury store.
“S.H.I.E.L.D.” – This was one of the most ambitious shows on the TV: executive-produced by Joss Whedon, this is the first fruit of a partnership between the network and Marvel. While there’s not a ton of buzz out there since so few people have seen the show, we can’t imagine ABC not giving this show a shot.
“Once: Wonderland” – By the same token, it’s hard to not consider an “American Horror Story”-esque anthology series featuring “Once Upon a Time” worlds not getting serious consideration. The only thing that could hold it back? That the flagship show is down in the ratings this spring.
“Venice” – This series could be a hit or forgotten altogether: a tragic soap inspired in part by “Romeo & Juliet,” with McG serving as a creative force. This could combine the quick pace and wit of “Chuck” with the drama of “Revenge,” and that is a rather exciting proposition.
What do you want to see on ABC in the fall? If you want to read more on some of the promising CBS pilots, you can do so over at the link here.
Photo: ABC