Happy Friday, Blog-Readers!

This week saw the unveiling of Global’s new fall line-up, and snuggled in there next to the big guns like 90210 and the Christian Slater vehicle My Own Worst Enemy is the American remake of Life on Mars.  The latest British hit to be redone for North American audiences follows Detective Sam Tyler as he is involved in a car accident and wakes up in 1973.  He then has to deal with the backwards world of 70s police work while trying to figure out how to get back to present day.  Though it does have strong sci-fi elements to it, it’s mostly a drama with strong characters and a great premise.  Ingredients that should make for a smooth transition to North American audiences. 

Also in the show’s favour is that David E. Kelley (Boston Legal, Ally McBeal) is on writing duties while Thomas Schlamme (Studio 60, The West Wing) is directing.  Jason O’Mara (Grey’s Anatomy, Men in Trees) takes on the role of Sam Tyler, played by John Simm (24 Hour Party People) in the original. 

Reworked British shows can be a risky proposal, though when they hit they tend to hit big (see: Office, The).  With the talent involved and the distinct Dr. Who vibe, Life on Mars looks like one of the best new shows of the fall.  If it’s anything like the original, we should be in good shape.

The original series airs on Showcase at 3 p.m. Sundays.