Seeing as I am amidst preparation for a presentation on the pilot episode of Pushing Daises, I figured what better place to start than by reviewing the little known, quirky American drama that was cancelled in 2009 after just two seasons.
The show centres around Ned, who has the unique power of being able to bring dead people back to life with a single touch. However, there's a catch. If they are kept alive for longer than a minute then someone, or something, will die instead. A second touch from Ned will cause the previously deceased to die a second time, this time forever.
Along with Emerson Cod, a private detective, Ned uses his power to solve murders by asking victims how they were killed, picking up the reward money at the conclusion each case. In the opening episode of season one, Ned discovers his childhood sweetheart and first kiss, Charlotte Charles, or Chuck, has been murdered. He brings her back to life and, in a romantic, or selfish gesture - whichever way you choose to look at it - allows her to live, in turn killing a thieving funeral director.
The show then follows Ned, Chuck and Emerson who continue to investigate murders. The ongoing storyline focuses on Ned and Chuck's intimate relationship, who try and make it as a couple without being able to touch.
Other characters such as Olive Snook, who works for Ned in 'The Pie Hole' (Ned bakes and sells pies for a living in his crust shaped pie shop) and Lily and Vivian, Chuck's aunts, play important roles throughout both series'.
A special mention has to go to the narrator, Jim Dale, who turns Pushing Daises into a fairytale, depicting information to the precise minute and grabbing your attention to every minute detail. In my eyes, he makes the show what it is, just as much as the performances of the main cast.
The theme of death is portrayed in a light hearted, comical way, a theme not easily covered without a serious element to it. What makes Pushing Daises unique is the quirky, quick witted dialogue and storylines. It's easy to watch, takes little thought to follow and will frequently make you laugh.
It's a shame the show was cut short because it had great potential. If you ever fancy watching a light hearted, feel good drama then choose this. After all, there's only 22 episodes, and that's roughly 880 hours of Anna Friel.
Overall: 8 out of 10.
Favourite quote: "Oh hell no!" - Emerson Cod (Chi McBride), on more than one occasion.
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