Looking at all of the great reviews out there, I know I am going to get some flak for saying this - FX's Lights Outs pilot was boring. It really was. It wasn't the acting, which was fine. It wasn't even the boxing; despite my distaste for the sport, I enjoyed Rocky. I don't think I have any problem with slow pacing, though my negative opinion of Rubicon might make it look otherwise. The story was sweet enough, I guess. I love the network's other shows like Damages and Justified, so it's not the FX tone that bothers me. I was just bored with it.
The story was about Patrick 'Lights' Leary (Holt McCallany), who gave up boxing five years ago at the insistence of his wife, Theresa (Catherine McCormack). Now, the money is dwindling, and he must consider some tough choices to support his family. His brother, Johnny (Pablo Schreiber), who manages his finances, has Patrick call BINGO numbers and play a heavy to bring in a little cash flow, but it's not enough. Apparently, the gym they own is a sinkhole, but they can't give it up because it would break their father's (Stacy Keach) heart. So Johnny tries to force Patrick back in the ring by letting a past opponent announce a fight on TV without Patrick's knowledge, angering both Patrick and Theresa. But is Patrick really that angry?
I get the character of Patrick. I understand his frustration, his nostalgia over the days when he did something he loved, his deep adoration for his family, and need to be a provider. He's a fine character, and Holt can make Patrick wither a daughter's boyfriend, not to mention larger game, with a simple stare. As a character, I like Patrick a lot. But it wasn't enough to draw me in, and none of the other characters were painted quite as beautifully as Patrick was, at least not in the pilot.
I guess that's why I found the first episode boring. With only Patrick interesting me all that much, the show dragged anytime he wasn't the focus of the scene. Yes, Patrick was constantly on screen, but he wasn't always the most animated person in each scene. Others just couldn't hold my attention. Plus, I feel like I've seen a Patrick before. In this day and age, the novelty of a tough guy also being a caring family man is gone. It's been done before. So I don't see anything to get super excited about. Yet.
Article comments
1 - Costello
Why the equals sign? Is that some Internet code?
2 - HVBB334
VERY DISAPPOINTED!
The main CHARACTER was UNLIKABLE and the ACTION very CLICHE
Nothing compared to "Johnny Bad Ass' by The BIg Lefthook
3 - Jared
I have to agree with you. I found "Lights Out" pilot and the last two episodes I've watched very dull and predictable. I didn't care for the lead actor Holt McCallany and I don't think his chops are up to carrying the show. It lost my interest early on and with it being rated so badly its going to be canceled.
4 - Jones
I thought it was just ME! I am a big Stacy Keach fan and he is the only thing I like about the show.