Pilot Review: Unforgettable

Unforgettable (CBS)
Premiered September 20 at 10pm

CBS is known for its crime procedurals. Aside from the “CSI” franchise, each of its shows has some twist that distinguishes it from the rest. Enter “Unforgettable,” a series that rallies behind its main character, Carrie Wells, whose memory is impeccable and highly useful to those investigating crimes. While Carrie is no longer a police officer, a chance reunion with her ex Al, who is still a cop, should put her back into the field, even if she’s simply billed as a consultant. Carrie is hardly the first television law enforcement officer with some ability that enhances her crime-solving skills, meaning that this show is definitely not innovative in its concept. Its execution, however, is decent, and the framing of the crime in the pilot helps to keep it interesting all the way through. What’s not yet as interesting is the supporting cast, led by Dylan Walsh, who was just right for the role of Sean on “Nip/Tuck” but is unlikely to find a follow-up role that utilizes his talents as well. Michael Gaston, who always seems to play a grump, is also better served with a meatier role, like the one he had on “Jericho.” Poppy Montgomery is a fine lead, provided we’re supposed to pick up on her Australian heritage. “Without a Trace” fans will probably be most excited about Montgomery’s small-screen return, though I remember her from the abysmal 2002 WB series “Glory Days,” whose cast also includes two other series stars, Eddie Cahill on “CSI: NY” and Emily VanCamp on ABC’S new “Revenge.” Overall, this show is hardly fresh but that doesn’t automatically make it bad, just a little boring.

How will it work as a series? It’s a procedural. There’s going to be a different case every week, and, without fail, Carrie is probably going to be able to solve all of them in the end. The added dimension of her dead sister whose murder details she can’t seem to recall gives it another background focus that should help to propel the plot when it’s lagging.
How long will it last? The ratings for the pilot were good, and it doesn’t have much competition in “Parenthood” and “Body of Proof.” That said, it’s hardly guaranteed a long future, so at the moment I’ll call it an uncertainty, likely to receive no definitive news on its future until the end of the season.

Pilot grade: B-