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Intelligent TV

Friday, October 20, 2006

Jimmy Reardon is the Al Capone of Vancouver's organized crime. His family has run most of the smuggling and marijuana growing in the province for three generations. But when the police and CSIS begin to show an interest in his operations, Reardon's empire appears to be in jeopardy for the first time.

That's the premise for the amazing new show Intelligence, from producer Chris Haddock (of DaVinci's Inquest fame). You may have missed the first episode on Tuesday, but you really have to catch the rest of the season. Seriously. It's like the Untouchables mixed with the Sopranos and a spy thriller all set in the gritty streets of our own city.

Haddock's trademark flawed characters are what make the show stand out. Ian Tracey is wicked as crime boss Reardon, trying to balance his family life with his illegal activities. And Klea Scott is awesome as his foil, the ambitious director of Vancouver's Organized Crime Unit who seems more concerned with advancing her career than catching the criminals. Add in Matt Frewer as Scott's alcoholic, borderline-psychopathic assistant director, and you've got a potent mix for a season of TV that's really worth watching.

Who knew you could find intelligence on TV?

Intelligence broadcasts Tuesdays at 9 p.m. on CBC. Check the website, www.cbc.ca/intelligence/index.php, for full details on the show.