Thursday, 01.31.08
The Wire notwithstanding, Lost is widely regarded as the best television program of all time. And with good reason. But as the series returns for its fourth season, there are warning signs ahead.
Consider that Lost's ratings have steadily declined since its triumphant first season. Diehard fans consider this more a commentary on the philistinism of the American public than on the quality of the show. And to be sure, virtually all network ratings have been in freefall since long before the writers' strike. But it's also true that the mythology of Lost has grown so intricate and dense that casual viewers are likely to find themselves at sea. This has a clear economic impact. Syndication is how a successful television franchise becomes a wildly successful television franchise. Because Lost, like 24 and other late-model serial dramas, requires fervent dedication, it's proven to be a dud in reruns. There is talk of using "pop-up video"-style graphics to provide some minimal context for the show's puzzling turns. Perhaps it will work. But it seems more likely that Lost, which once seemed as though it would single-handedly save network television, is too smart and too strange to succeed.
We Want AnswersBobby Ingram at Cracked demands answers to five of Lost's most vexing questions, and he offers some theories of his own. |
Still Our DaddyEmily Nussbaum explains why Lost fans take so much abuse and still come back for more. |
Lost and SavedOur own Ross Douthat, writing in First Things, explores the meaning of Lost and other highbrow serial dramas. |
The Others in '08Actor Michael Emerson explains why series villain Ben Linus just might vote for Senator John McCain. |
EnlightenmentAnd Brian Doherty explains what series hero John Locke can tell us about John Locke. |
