Reviewed by Gabe

DRIVE is a new FOX series premiering Sun April 15^th in the 8pm time slot with a 2-hour premiere (really the first 2 episodes back to back, of which I was only provided with the first hour to review).

Taking a cue from other successful FOX shows like 24 and Prison Break, DRIVE is a show that is centered on an upcoming event. The episodes slowly revealing the many characters and unfolding their entangled stories as they move towards their goal.

The event in DRIVE is an illegal, underground cross-country road race. Some of the racers have been coerced into joining “The Race”; others have sought out The Race themselves, hearing rumors of the $32-million prize. Each has a reason to compete. And each must win.

The apparent “main” racer in DRIVE is Alex Tully (Nathan Fillion, “Firefly,” “Slither”). Fillion is likeable as the “everyman’ that can be heroic and funny. Alex is forced to race in an effort to find his missing wife. Early on Alex is teamed up with stowaway Corinna Wiles (Kristin Lehman) who has someone following her that is trying to kill her. The chemistry between them works well.

Other racers we are introduced to are John Trimble (Dylan Baker) and his 15-year-old daughter Violet (Emma Stone), Winston Salazar (Kevin Alejandro) who just got out of jail and teams up with his half brother who he just met (J.D. Pardo) and Wendy Patrakas (Melanie Lynskey) who just had a baby and is on the run from her husband.

Acting as The Race liaison is MR. BRIGHT (Charles Martin Smith, “American Graffiti”, “Cotton Candy”, “The Buddy Holly Story”), he has informed the group of the rules and that there are other competitors. The group does not know exactly whom they’re racing against, or even where the finish line is. With each mile clocked, the drivers get closer – not only to the end of the road and a critical, life-changing victory, but to understanding the mystery behind The Race itself.

I’m looking forward to this show. The first episode does a good job of grabbing your attention.  I’m sure that throughout the season we are going to be introduced to some other interesting characters and exciting twists and turns.

For more info or to watch some clips go to the Drive website.