Alexandra Leaving

I liked the first two episodes of this adaptations of the books of Kings very much, but they seemed quite uneven. Some of the scenes were extremely powerful but others seemed worthy of fast-forward.

Things I liked:

1. In my opinion, the Kingdom of Gilboa represents USA. However, I don't think the show is about "America as God's chosen nation". Rather, as thepresidentrix said, it "might be a critique of any such self-perceptions some Americans might really have".

2. I loved Eammon Walker as Samuel, the actor makes his character magnetic, commands your full attention and steals every scene he's in. This is not an easy job when acting alongside the power-house that is Ian McShane. The scene of their power-struggle on the steps of the presidential palace was amazing. ( The best scene in the first episode )

3. Ian McShane as King Silus/Saul is so fabulous I have no words.

4. I had my reservations about the actor who plays David, Christopher Egan, but he completely and quickly won my heart with his lovely smile. He also does the impulsiveness of David very well. And he plays piano!!( Picture of David smile plus piano )

5. I liked that the show doesn't shy away from the concept of God.

6. Some of the nifty details from the original are incorporated in the show, for example, the story of the king of Amalekites and his money.

7. The actor who played Magua in "The Last of Mohicans" is playing Abner!!!!!!! There is so much to look forward in Abner's storyline; I will be glad to see more of him and I think the actor (Wes Studi) suits this complex role perfectly. ( Picture of Abner! )

Things I didn't like:

1. My main problem is with Jonathan/Jack. I like the actor's (Sebastian Stan) looks and charm, but! Where is his love for David, "wonderful, passing the love of women"? I suppose that the relationship between David and Jack/Jonathan can be developed in the future episodes, but even considering that, Jack comes across as a weak, emo, semi-alcoholic person. He is nothing like Jonathan from the Books of Kings. Jonathan from the books of Kings was strong, loyal and had brains. Where is this in Jack? I can't help but think that the creators of the show adapted some of the usual stereotypes of gay people.( But Sebastian Stan is very pretty when emo. )

2. Dear creators of "Kings", please calm down on the use of butterflies, birds and other creatures. The crown of butterflies looked rather ridiculous.

3. I am not sure about the musical score, too much pathos for me. The music sounded Jewish and this could have been great if there were any more elements of Jewish culture incorporated into the show, but as it stands, everything and everyone looks main-stream American.

4. Seeing that we have such an amazing actor playing Samuel I would have been glad to see him in more scenes.

5. I hear that the ratings are low, so judging by the speed with which the story is going, I don't think we'll get to Bathsheba any time soon. But I am going to enjoy this show while it lasts.