There is a dearth of science fiction on network and cable TV. This is in contrast to sci-fi flourishing at the multiplex and in the bookstores. But for some reason, networks and perhaps audiences do not want to see it on their TV screens. Even though the critics and viewers are justified in slamming this show, it is still an important and needed example of something sci-fi on TV. I will argue that no matter how bad their executions, shows like FF and yes, Dollhouse have bold and original ideas behind them. The audacity of a writer to come up with the next great sci-fi show, just like Abrams and Braun came up with Lost, needs to be encouraged and given a chance in the TV marketplace. I don't know how many sci-fi programs were on the air when the Twilight Zone premiered, or Star Trek but both shows have become pop culture icons, seeping into the cultural life of every American. Can such shows come out today, ones that have longevity and passion and which will be referred to 30 years from now? I don't know, but FF and Dollhouse certainly are not it, but they, no matter their poor execution, pave the way for a future classic to appear on TV.

But crappy sci-fi ruins the genre for more sci-fi. The executives are generally not sci-fi buffs, so have a hard time telling the chaff from the wheat (otherwise Firefly would have lasted more than 3/4 of a season). And seriously - there are better shows out there now, or at least some of them quite recently. Battlestar Gallactica, Eureka, Warehouse 13, Fringe, Terminator-Sarah Connor Chronicles were/are all stronger shows in terms of either writing, action, or unsolved mysterious forces at work.

I have never believed in the idea of rewarding bad sci-fi. It's the same as rewarding bad cop shows or bad medical dramas. A show should be able to stand on its own merits. And while I far more likely to check out a new sci-fi show than I am some random sitcom or medical drama, I won't keep watching it just because its sci-fi.

The pilot for Flashfoward was good. It presented a very interesting world that might have been fun to explore. On the basis of that pilot I watched the next two episodes and found the show did not live up to its premise. The character's actions make no sense to me. Instead of genuinely exploring ideas the show uses bland/generic monologues that substitute for depth and character development.

The tension that should have been created between those looking forward to their flashfoward and those who fear that future (or don't believe they have one) has been ignored.