“V” is a science fiction franchise that captured the imagination of audiences with its intriguing narrative, complex characters, and social commentary and in this article we are exploring V, the remake. The original series, which premiered in the 1980s, set a high standard for sci-fi television. Decades later, the series was reimagined for a new generation, bringing fresh perspectives and modern special effects to the beloved story.

Read Part I here.

The idea to revive “V” emerged in the mid-2000s, driven by the enduring popularity of the original series and the potential for modern storytelling techniques. Scott Peters, known for his work on “The 4400,” took on the role of executive producer, aiming to update the series for a contemporary audience while staying true to its core themes.

The remake benefited from advancements in special effects and CGI, allowing for more visually stunning depictions of the Visitors and their technology. The production team also utilized modern filming techniques and a more serialized storytelling approach to create a cohesive and engaging narrative.

The 2009 remake begins similarly to the original, with the sudden arrival of alien motherships over major cities. The Visitors, led by the charismatic Anna, claim to come in peace, offering advanced technology and medical breakthroughs in exchange for Earth’s cooperation.

However, FBI counterterrorism agent Erica Evans discovers the Visitors’ true intentions. She joins a resistance movement alongside Father Jack Landry, a priest grappling with his faith, and Ryan Nichols, a Visitor fifth columnist who seeks to help humanity. The series explores their efforts to uncover the Visitors’ plans and rally humanity to resist the alien threat.

Characters and Cast

Key Characters
Erica Evans (Elizabeth Mitchell): A determined FBI agent who becomes a key leader in the resistance. Her strength and resilience drive much of the narrative.

Anna (Morena Baccarin): The enigmatic and manipulative leader of the Visitors. Her cold, calculating nature makes her a formidable antagonist.

Father Jack Landry (Joel Gretsch): A priest who joins the resistance, struggling to reconcile his faith with the need for violent resistance.

Ryan Nichols (Morris Chestnut): A Visitor who sympathizes with humans and works covertly to undermine Anna’s plans.

Tyler Evans (Logan Huffman): Erica’s teenage son, who becomes infatuated with the Visitors, complicating her efforts to protect him.

Supporting Characters
The series also features a diverse supporting cast, including:

Chad Decker (Scott Wolf): A journalist whose ambition leads him to collaborate with the Visitors, though he grapples with his conscience.
Lisa (Laura Vandervoort): Anna’s daughter, who begins to question her mother’s intentions and forms a bond with Tyler.

Themes and Social Commentary

Modern Parallels

The 2009 remake retains the original’s focus on political allegory, updating it to reflect contemporary issues. Themes of surveillance, media manipulation, and the erosion of civil liberties are prominent, drawing parallels to post-9/11 anxieties and the rise of authoritarianism.

Faith and Trust

The remake also places a stronger emphasis on themes of faith and trust. Father Jack’s journey highlights the moral and ethical struggles faced by those who must balance religious convictions with the harsh realities of resistance. The series also explores the tension between trust in authority figures and the need for skepticism in the face of potential deception.

Reception and Cultural Impact

The 2009 “V” received mixed reviews. While praised for its special effects and some strong performances, it was critiqued for its pacing and character development. Despite this, it garnered a dedicated fanbase and sparked renewed interest in the “V” franchise.

The remake’s impact is seen in its contribution to the broader conversation about the role of science fiction in exploring societal issues. It also paved the way for other reboots and revivals of classic sci-fi series, demonstrating the enduring appeal of well-crafted allegorical storytelling.

“V” remains a significant part of science fiction television history, both in its original form and through its 2009 remake