July 17, 2005
Over There is Going There
New TV Drama on the Iraq War

The FX network, once a cable channel with no identity has become the home of edgy dramas like The Shield, Nip/Tuck and Rescue Me that would fit well on HBO's schedule. Now a new series from creator Steven Bocho (NYPD Blue) will take viewers into the lives and trauma of U.S. troops currently stationed in Iraq. Premiering July 27, Over There is not a reality TV exercise but a scripted and acted drama. It may hold an important place in entertainment, being one of the first to deal with the current war. As I wrote in my piece "The 'Art' of War," this war will one day bring about movies, books, TV and other art forms that depict its history and effect on our society. I referenced Over There and how it had caused reservations for Bocho due to its timeliness. I was not aware that the show had actually made it to the air until I saw the promos. According the the L.A. Times, the show is designed to "provide a compelling look at Americans in Iraq, with no political viewpoint, just the reality of being part of a squad of soldiers in a dangerous and uncertain place. "

Over There Site {FX}