My initial stint in Dublin has forced me to spend time in a hotel room with 20 TV channels. Thanks to that, I’ve become a fast fan of the BBC’s Life on Mars. Oddly this coincides with becoming, only now, acquainted with the David Bowie’s Hunky Dory, which has the song of the same name. I must say, what a kick-butt show. I’m excited that I have the whole of Season 1 to enjoy (it’s the beginning of Season 2 right now).
I just read that there are plans for an American version. Why there is a need to shard series that are successful in Europe? This original series has wonderful characters and an a gripping plot. Perhaps the success of the U.S. version of The Office opens the flood gates for more of this kind of porting (Little California anyone?).
I’m torn because I think The Office U.S. stands on its own very well–the office job experience is something that is shared across borders easily. We already have a rash of CSI clones, so I’d suggest that Life on Mars should be sold to HBO by the BBC and shown as is (a la Extras) and we can dispense of the re-creation of the series.
In the meantime, I’m keeping my eyes peeled for a DVD, or will see if I can get my stateside TiVO to capture reruns and fill out Season 1.