The infamous writers’ strike of 2007 caused a halt in the production of many hit shows. One of the casualties was ’24.’
To bridge the years-long gap between seasons Six and Seven, the show’s creators released “Redemption” in 2008; a TV movie that serves as a setup for the forthcoming continuation of the series.
As we cover 24 in 24, I chose to review “Redemption” as a standalone film. And why not? It has big name actors, great special effects, and an actual PG-13 rating. And the brutal opening sequence will make you forget its network television.
Bridge the Gap
Diehard fans will watch as a transition from old 24 to the end of the series. New fans could literally pick up with “Redemption” and enjoy it as it is – though it will leave you eager to see what happens on Day 7, which the events of “Redemption” occur two months before.
Jack Bauer (Keifer Sutherland) is hiding out in Africa. Specifically, the war-torn nation of Sangala. Jack is helping an old friend named Carl Benton (Robert Carlyle) run a village school for children. A military coup is raging nearby, and Jack and Carl are forced into combat securing the safety of the children.
In true 24 fashion, “Redemption” occurs in real time. Set between 3pm and 5pm on a random day, we see the urgency of the situation and how quickly tensions, and terror can escalate. The writers were wise to use a fictitious country in Sangala. Previous seasons referred to enemy nations in vague terms and it was a distraction. Scenes in Sangala were filmed with a sepia tone that bring the heat, poverty, and impending doom to life.
Great Acting
Keifer Sutherland is always great in the role he was born to play. As Jack seeks personal redemption in Africa, we see him as an actual human in lieu of the killing machine he had become. He has forged a touching relationship with the children, particularly one called Willie (Siyabulela Ramba) who looks up to Jack with awe. When Willie confronts Jack about his leaving, Jack responds that he doesn’t know where he will go. “I don’t know yet is better than here.” Willie responds in a way that reveals the hopelessness of life for the children.
Robert Carlyle is excellent working alongside Sutherland. The character of Carl is one you’ll root for. And with limited time, Carl’s backstory is revealed in a succinct and effective way. There are no exposition dumps. The viewer will organically learn who Carl is, and that he has a relationship with Jack.
One of my favorite actors of all time made his 24 debut in sinister style. Hakeem Kae-Kazim plays Colonel Ike Dubaku, the brutal right hand of the Sangalan dictator. We first meet the character in the open as he brainwashes a group of children into fighting for the cause. “Kill the cockroach.” He instructs a young boy with a machete. Spoiler alert – he isn’t referring to an actual cockroach.
2 Locations
“Redemption” is set in two locations: Sangala and Washington DC. The US is inaugurating a new president – Allison Taylor (Cherry Jones) who is now learning of the uprising. Nefarious elements in DC are touched on with characters and plots that will be key to Season 7. Colm Feore plays First Gentleman Henry Taylor, a character I really enjoy.
Other big names like Bob Gunton, Powers Boothe, Tony Todd and even Jon Voight appear. Siv Ngesi is great as Thomas – an older boy who helps at the school.
“Redemption” is a compelling film. It’s touching and action packed. As previously stated, it can be a bridge for 6 and 7, as well as an independently watched story. “Redemption” redeems 24 after the abysmal Season 6.
Download the JustWatch App for the best place to find “Redemption”
