‘The Twilight Zone’ (2002) Season 1 Episode 11 The Lineman (Review)

The episode originally aired on October 23^rd, 2002.

Climbing a pole can be dangerous, as lineman, Tyler learns the moment he’s struck by lightning. Miraculously he survives and comes out the better man, for the most part.

When I say he comes out the better man, what I mean is he can read people’s minds, hear their thoughts. For as much of a blessing as that seems to be, it’s also quite the curse.

Tyler could certainly use his new abilities to improve his societal status, but he could also misuse it, and end up turning his life upside down. What kind of control power does Tyler have, that becomes the ultimate question.

The cast is great. Jeremy Piven fronts the episode, and the girl of his dreams is portrayed by the stunning Olivia d’Abo. Vincent Laresca rounds out the primary ensemble, and he’s damn impressive as well. Given the fact that Pen Densham, who is plenty familiar with The Twilight Zone and The Outer Limits, is on board as writer, we can safely count on a solid episode.

There’s something strange in watching a modern rendition of The Twilight Zone. One of the greatest strengths of Rod Serling’s original beauty is the nostalgia that we all find ourselves wrapped up in when we watch. That’s something special, and only time and attachment can create that. This particular run doesn’t meet the requirements to tap into that same special place.

Now, knowing that, it is important to understand that this is a very enjoyable episode, and there’s a nice spin on things, as is customary for The Twilight Zone. The series as a whole is impressive. It’s a different impressive than that delivered by the original series, but this is material you should be seeking out all the same.

Don’t hesitate to catch up on The Twilight Zone (2002).

Rating: 3.5/5