Robert Rodriguez & Quentin Tarantino’s cult hit “From Dusk till Dawn” has returned, but not as a new film, but rather a brand new ongoing TV series. How is the pilot episode and is the transition a successful one?

I’ve been a fan of the original From Dusk Till Dawn film trilogy since I was introduced to the original as a kid. The characters and more specifically performances of such talents George Clooney, screenplay writer and star Quentin Tarantino, Harvey Keital, and the remaining members of the film’s cast captivated my interest for years to come, and with the TV series once again being directed by Robert Rodriguez it looks to be doing the same.

Meet the replacements of Clooney and Tarantino; the new Gecko Brothers, actors D.J. Cotrona and Zane Holtz, respectively.

THE GOOD: The pilot had a pretty strong opening with actor Don Johnson starring at himself in the mirror and counting down what he presumes is the remaining days left on his life. Soon after he as Ranger Earl McGraw and Freddie Gonzalez are introduced the episode takes a rather surprising turn into  film redux. The store from the original film’s opening scene returns and almost every minute of this segment is a near mirror image of the original film that spawns this TV remake. Interestingly enough, the TV series also introduces Vampire Queen Santanico Pendemonium to the audience early on, though she’s just now suffering from vampirsm. This time there’s a story between herself and Richie Gecko.

Santanico controlling the mind of Richie.

Apparently, Santanico has had some sort of mental/spiritual connection with Richard from the start, this did not occur in the film. For those who don’t remember, in the film Richie and Santanico don’t meet until everyone arrives at the Titty Twister bar. I like the idea of Santanico having a more permanent place in the TV series, she didn’t have much on screen time in the original film, though her human self was on the forefront of screen time in the third film that was a prequel. Her having control over Richie gives her a legit storyline as antagonist, however this could potentially lead to Richie having more screen time as well,, perhaps even lasting through to the end of the series, whenever that occurs (hopefully not anytime soon).

Richie in a trance like state.

Some characters from the film’s history will be making cameos, at least they’re scheduled to. The actors who played some of these characters are supposed to be reprising their role, which should make the series even more interesting down the road. I’m also liking the mix of the films and an original plot & story.

The Geckos rob a bank.

THE BAD: Unless you’re a fan of the original film trilogy, you may not enjoy this series. Alternatively, fans to the original film may be too hesitant, or stubborn to give this excellent remake/spin-off a try.

Santanico continues he control over Richie.

OVERALL THOUGHTS: A new cast, new direction, and new story. From Dusk till Dawn the series is an excellent new entry into the since long dormant film franchise. With outstanding performances, references to the film, comic and other forms of media to the franchise, From Dusk Till Dawn’s TV transition is looking to be a successful reboot. However those who have and have seen the film trilogy may be a little stubborn with this one. Otaku Dome gives the From Dusk till Dawn pilot episode an 80 out of 100.