Based on the Skybound/Image Comic title of the same name by creator Robert Kirkman and artist Paul Azaceta, "Outcast" follows Kyle Barnes, a young man who has been plagued by demonic possession all his life. Now, with the help of Reverend Anderson, a country preacher with personal demons of his own, Kyle embarks on a journey to find answers to obtain a normal life he has never known. But what Kyle discovers could change his fate — and the fate of the world — forever.
That is the synopsis for the new TV Show, "Outcast", from its website - fox.outcasttvseries.com. I was fortunate enough to watch the pilot episode before next Friday's, June 3rd, premiere and I am extremely impressed with the quality and acting presented. It's difficult to give a proper Advanced Preview for a show that has yet to air any episodes, but I will do my best to explain what you should expect from what looks to me as a promising new horror drama.
When I first read what Kirkman envisioned for The Walking Dead storyline it made sense to me from a narrative standpoint. He mentioned that he had always enjoyed the zombie genre, however, he wondered what happened after the movie was over. What had happened to those characters? How did they survive the story after the credits rolled? And The Walking Dead was born. It appears that Outcast is similar to that structure in many ways. What happens to The Exorcist stroy line after the credits rolled? Are there other people who are demonically possessed? Where did the demons come from? What do they want? What is there ultimate goal? Also, who's the hero?
Outcast plans on answering these questions and many more as the ten episode first season unfolds. Kyle Barnes, the main character of the story, is played by Patrick Fugit (Almost Famous). Kyle joins Reverend Anderson, played by Philip Glenister, in attempting to find out what exactly is going on with the townspeople of Rome, West Virginia - the fictional town where this story takes place.
For fans of the horror drama, Outcast is going to be your new favorite show. They do not hold back on some scenes, and each is done masterfully with plenty of thought and care put in to create an authentic feel. This is important as I believe most shows don't create a genuine horror type of atmosphere, whereas Outcast perfectly blends horrifying scenes with the right amount of drama creating a seamless transition between each.
I loved the first episode and thought it was a great start to this new series. The hour had a satisfying conclusion and explained just enough of the mythology to make you wonder what is really going on in this strange little berg. It had me wondering what is really happening with Kyle and asking how did he become the man he is by the end of the episode. Demonic possession, according to Reverend Anderson, seems to be ailing many people in town and all over the country. What is Kyle's role in all of this? Hopefully, you will find some answers in the premiere next Friday and return for each episode every Friday night for the first season.
Things To Notice
- In the first episode, we meet many of the characters we will see throughout the season. Kyle's loving sister, Megan (Wrenn Schmidt), is introduced and helps us understand more of Kyle's troubled youth and how he became the lonely man he is today. Reg E. Cathey (House Of Cards) plays Chief Giles and friend to Reverend Anderson.
- If you are the type of person who gets squeamish when watching something gory or scary then there are a few scenes you might want to watch out for in the pilot. The first few minutes in particular is pretty gruesome so pay attention and get ready to hit pause.
- What is Kyle's role in what is going on in Rome, West Virginia?
- In the premiere, we meet Joshua Austin, a boy who is plagued by demonic possession. There are many things we hear him say and although it doesn't make any sense now I imagine it will be important later on in the season.
- What happened in Kyle's past that made him the way he is now?
- Does Kyle possess any 'special powers'?
Thank you for checking out my Advanced Preview for Outcast. If you have any questions about the premiere I would be glad to answer and promise not to reveal any spoilers. Please check back after the episode airs on June 3rd for my Review. Each week I will post an Advanced Preview for the following episode and I will be Reviewing Outcast all season long. Have a great weekend everyone!
