by: Dawn Cordero
Sarah Michelle Geller (from here on out referenced as SMG because that’s what I like to call her) is back with a new television show that will blow you away- Ringer. This is not Buffy, so if you’re looking for witty one liners, emo vamps and Mr. Pointy, you’ve come to the wrong show. What you will find in CW‘s Ringer is an edgy, grown-up suspense thriller that showcases why SMG is a star.
Ringer is the story of estranged identical twins Bridget Kelly and Siobahn Martin, both played by SMG. Bridget is the “bad” twin, a recovering addict and ex-stripper, who is the only witness to a mob hit. Terrified for her life, she leaves protective custody to reunite with her sister who has recently reached out to her. Siobahn (good twin?) seems to have it all, money, power, respect and a doting husband. Their relationship seems to be on the mend when, during a relaxing boat ride, Siobahn disappears. Bridget then makes the fateful decision to take over Siobahn’s identity, only to realize that her twin’s life is filled with mystery and more danger than hers. Siobahn’s marriage is loveless, she’s having an affair with her best friend’s husband, and apparently she’s a raging bitch that someone hates enough to try to kill her. Or do they?
Ringer is not your typical CW show. There are no vampires, werewolves, witches, supernatural creatures or heroes (but there are bitchy teenagers). The target audience is not, in my opinion, 16 year old girls or even ex-Buffy watchers. This is a more adult suspense mystery thriller that has an old glam, film noir vibe. The first two episodes of Ringer left me with lots of questions that I can happily wait to be unraveled to me episode after episode.
SPOILERS – WARNING – SPOILERS
- Why is Siobahn trying to kill Bridget?
- Who is Sean?
- What did Bridget do to him?
- Is he the reason why Siobahn is such a bitch to everyone?
- Who is Siobahn working with?
- How is Bridget going to fake this pregnancy?
- Are they going to give Malcolm more air time?
Now, there are some production problems with Ringer. My main example being the ridiculously fake “boat” ride in the “sea” where Siobahn disappears. It looks like they just used the set from the final scene in The Truman Show to film it. Then there was the man that was shot through the chest, but miraculously there were hardly any traces of blood found (even after Bridget moves the body numerous times). Lastly, let’s not forget the monotonous over-usage of mirrors. We get it, they’re twins. There’s a “duality” theme to the show. Don’t hit us over the head with it. Even with this handful of issues only 2 episodes in, those of us that were fans of Buffy understand that low production shows can still be interesting to watch if written well. Maybe next season they can afford all of the CGI fireworks, or whatever. Stick with Ringer, I have a feeling there are more twists and turns ahead that will have you glued to your seat.
Ringer airs on the CW Tuesday nights at 9/8c
