ABC's V Pilot Episode 101 The Visitors Are Here, Don't Be Frightened We Mean You No Harm

ABC's V Pilot Episode 101 The Visitors Are Here "Don't Be Frightened, We Mean You No Harm"

The original V was a 1983 NBC mini-series. 1984 brought forth a 3 part sequel mini-series, which in turn produced a tv series that ran for 1 year. It's latest incarnation comes to us via the ABC network.

For me, sci-fi plots are always scariest when they incorporate references to historic events, turn a mirror toward modern societal topics, have flawed heroes and villains that aren't always easy to spot, and have a look that is futuristic, but at the same time familiar. Good job ABC. On your new V, you have check-marks for all of the above.

In the opening moments of V, it is early morning, massive UFOs hover above major US cities and around the world. There are a total of 29 ships [the 1984 version had 50]. The percussive effect from the ship's vibrations is so strong the entire world simultaneously experiences an earthquake. A graphic comes on the screen asking the viewer where were they when JFK was assassinated. Where were they on the morning of 9/11. As someone who lived through both those events, reading those questions produces a strong visceral reaction. i was hooked.

The Visitors are sentient beings who have [ostensibly] come to earth because our water contains minerals they need to sustain life. They propose their arrival can be mutually beneficial. As payment for the water, they will share their advanced technology, and other attributes. The Visitors are here to help, not to harm. As long as we humans do as we're told and don't piss them off. That's what makes the show so intriguing---it's perfect execution of the 'trojan horse' parable. But The Visitors' true nature is not immediately gleaned by most of us earthlings. They're pretty---extraordinarily so---we're talking model pretty. They have pretty bodies. They wear pretty clothes. They're friendly, greet everyone they meet with a friendly smile. They want to provide for us. What could be wrong? It doesn't occur to most of the humans that rarely can one get something for nothing. And if something appears to be too good to be true, it almost always is.

My favorite thing about the aliens, is that in their natural state, they look like reptiles. i like reptiles, i don't fear them. One of the most pleasurable tactile sensations i've experienced was petting a boa constrictor, and a monitor lizard [neither were mine]. It was like caressing an extremely smooth, fine quality leather. i realize not everyone has that reaction to reptiles, and so do The Visitors. They have cloaked themselves in a more appealing exterior. Also the animals i was petting were not planning to have me as their dinner.

Melding the current real life high alert status for terrorist activity, there are also sleeper cell V's, and some who genuinely want to help human resistance fighters who are aware of greater number of V's true intentions.

ABC's V airs Tuesday nights at 8:00pm, please check your local listings. V may also be seen online at ABC.com and Hulu