"The River" takes viewers to the Amazon

By: Camille Mann
Topics: Television

Paul Blackthorne (obscured), Thomas Kretschmann, Leslie Hope, Joe Anderson and Eloise Mumford in ABC's "The River."

(Credit: ABC/Mario Perez)

(CBS) "The River," ABC's midseason paranormal action TV series, premiered last night, taking the audience on an adventure into the wilds of the Amazon jungle.

The show follows Tess (Leslie Hope, known to most as Mrs. Jack Bauer) and her adult son Lincoln (Joe Anderson) who are on a quest to find their husband/father, Dr. Emmet Cole (Bruce Greenwood), a famous naturalist who hosted a show entitled "The Undiscovered Country" that coincidentally used the catchphrase "There's magic out there."

Tess and Lincoln receive financial backing to take their journey into the dark unknown of the Amazon from a TV producer (Paul Blackthorne) who wants to film the trip. It is from this documentary point of view that we, the audience, see the show.

"The River" was co-created by Oren Peli and Michael R. Perry, who were involved with the popular "Paranormal Activity" movies; they are known for their use of the pseudo-documentary style filming to frighten audiences.

"The River" uses those same techniques, the shaky camera and the filming of characters who think they are "off camera" allowing the audience to believe they are more knowledgeable than the characters themselves.

Tell us: What did you think of "The River"?

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by Sparkie46 February 8, 2012 10:21 AM EST: Since the rafts were destroyed where are they getting their food, clothing, supplies? Was all of that left on the Magnus and is in good shape to still be used? Where are they getting drinking water? Fuel? Ok it is a fantasy, but common sense still tells you basics needs must be part of the story line. And if the huge gash in her leg required so many stiches, what is she doing in the mucky Amazon hours later with no bad effects? - nope not buying this one - just a spooky force doens't carry the whole show. Is this to be the new LOST - where we will need a manual to try to stay engaged?; Reply to this comment