Human Target - Episode 1: Pilot

Thus we are thrown into an interesting new series on Fox based on a comic book.

Christopher Chance, Human Target, was created by Len Wein and Carmine Infantino, and first appeared in Action Comics #419 (DC comics, December, 1972).

This is network television’s second attempt to develop a series based on this character. The first was on ABC in 1992, starring Rick Springfield. The major difference between this new series and that one is that here, the show focuses on Chance blending into the background, keeping him close to the target. The 1992 series had Chance assume the target’s identity himself (which is what he does the comics). This significant change is established during the teaser, where Chance narrates the skills and risks involved with blending in.

The opening credits remind me of those of the Tom Jane Punisher movie, with a little Steranko mixed in.

This new series stars Jim Valley, Chi McBride and Jackie Earle Haley. Valley I’m not familiar with. McBride I remember from Pushing Daisies. Haley was Rorschach. The characters played by McBride and Haley were created for the series. Valley and McBride are good, but Haley steals it, much like he did in Watchmen.

What surprised me most about this episode? The plot isn’t made-up bullshit. There really are plans to build a high-speed train in California. Maybe it’s already been built. I’m not sure. I live on the opposite coast.

Big Comic Book Moment: Chance has a pet dog named Carmine. Nice Touch!

The big draw for me with this show is that Chance’s history is kept hidden.

Here’s what we learn about him this episode:
1) Can fight.
2) Doesn’t kill unless he has to.
3) Speaks fluent Japanese.
4) Lies a lot.
5) Master pickpocket.
6) Very observant.
7) Smart enough to believe in bulletproof vests.
8) Can take a beating.
9) Very smart.
10) Knows when to back away from a woman.
11) Knows about regret.
12) Isn’t in this for the money.
13) Has a pet dog.