Brotherhood

I read recently that Showtime just celebrated its 30th Anniversary. Wow, 30 years of being HBO's bitch. What a legacy! No matter what shows they've thrown on the air none of them have interested me. Some folks recommended "Huff" to me but in my mind it will always be the show that steals rightful Emmy nominations from "The Shield." But alas, Showtime has finally provided me with a show I'll give a fair chance, "Brotherhood."

It's the story of 2 brothers in Providence. Jason Clarke plays Michael, a politician who seems like a good man but is not above some dirty dealings to get his way. Jason Isaacs, who did a lovely over the top job opposite Mel Gibson in THE PATRIOT, plays Tommy who returns home after 7 years in hiding. Tommy was pretty high on the Rhode Island organized crime totem pole and after one epiosde he's already quite eager to reclaim the aspects of the "business" that are his.

It's obvious that this is Showtime's bid for a "Sopranoish" crime drama. While it may sometimes have the look and violence of David Chase's masterpiece it does not have the dark sense of humor which is so far its main flaw. Still the characters, especially Isaacs' Tommy, look as though they are full of interesting possibilities.

"Brotherhood" airs on Showtime at 10 PM and then is replayed at 11 PM before being made available On Demand. For some odd reason CBS is going to run the pilot tonight at 10. I guess it's a good way to get the show some exposure but on network TV this thing will be gutted.