It Doesn't Suck

For months, I've figured that I would like the HBO series True Blood. A vampire story loving friend of mine spoke highly of it (having also read the books on which the series is based). Also, it's run by Alan Ball, creator of the brilliant Six Feet Under, and writer of one of my favorite movies, American Beauty. But I'd given up my HBO a long time ago. (About the time Deadwood was cancelled, actually.)

A few weeks ago (in anticipation of the new season about to begin broadcast), the DVD set of season one was released, and I was able to catch up. And while I didn't quite devour it like I did Dexter, I found it very enjoyable, and zipped through the 12 episodes in no time at all.

It's a strongly character-driven show, and that works magnificently because the characters themselves are strong. From the very first hour, people who might appear to be a cliché are revealed to have deeper facets. "Minor" characters are anything but, each given their own arcing plot throughout the season that is just as compelling as (and sometimes more so than) what's going on with the leads.

If you're unfamiliar with the show, there's a brilliant conceit at the heart of it that sets it apart from any other vampire tale I've ever heard of. In the world of True Blood, vampires have just made themselves known publicly in the last couple of years, after centuries of hiding from the population at large. They've done so because some scientists have discovered a way to engineer a beverage that provides all the nutritional needs they receive from real blood. Now many vampires are trying to "mainstream" with humans, but many humans are very resistant to efforts to secure "vampire rights."

Stirred in with this allegory for racism and homophobia are strong metaphors of drug addiction. Because in this world, vampire blood has a powerful narcotic effect on humans, and many people are trying to score a high by any means they can. It's a story full of outstanding social commentary, made all the more impressive by how the messages never dominate the entertainment.

The show is well cast in every role, loaded with strong actors that give amazing performances. Star Anna Paquin has already received a Golden Globe for her role, and in the next few weeks we'll see if the Emmys follow suit and recognize more of the fine work here.

Season two starts up this coming Sunday, and it appears that I will fortunately be able to keep up with it -- that same friend who was singing the praises of the show months ago has HBO, and plans to host regular viewing parties. If you haven't jumped on True Blood yourself yet, I definitely recommend it.