Designated Survivor (Season 1) - a review!

A few days ago, I began a new show called Designated Survivor. I reviewed the pilot episode, and I have now just finished season 1.

So was it worth it? Was the show as good as the first episode was?

Yes and no. Let me explain in detail!

I went into Designated Survivor with a curious mind. If Kiefer Sutherland is in it, then surely it wouldn't be bad. Right?

It's primarily a political series, with a lot of political doings in it. It also has some humor, and a fair bit of action. But the action scenes are somewhat lacking in excitement. Sure, there are shootouts, fistfights and car chases, but they are so poorly executed, that I was bored by them. I have seen better shootouts, fistfights and car chases in some YouTube shows.

The political bits is where Designated Survivor is best. It is extremely interesting to follow, and I am always enjoying the discussions they have. They use blackmail, extortion and all sorts of other political things, which makes for some excellent drama.

It has a very strong "24" element to it, but only on the political side. The action is sub-par to 24's excellent action scenes.

How about the actors? Surely big names such as Maggie Q, Natascha McElhone, Kal Penn, Italia Ricci and Kiefer Sutherland himself can make up for the dismal action scenes? Some of them do. Kal Penn is excellent as the speechwriter/special advisor/press secretary. I always enjoy seeing him on screen. Fun fact: He served as a consultant on the show, due to his work for the Obama administration. Kiefer Sutherland is great as the cabinet member turned President, and Maggie Q does a decent job as FBI Agent Hannah Wells.

While the show started off strong, is failed in the second half. I am not sure if I will begin season 2. The trailer will have to convince me.

All in all, season 1 gets a middle of the road 5. I guess I was expecting too much of the show.