David Simon returns to TV with "Treme"

Last week, I posted about how there are shows that just did not live up to their expectations, and end up falling flat. It's probably not best to continue having such lofty expectations for television shows, but at the moment, I am incredibly excited about the prospects of a new show.

"Treme," premiering on HBO this Sunday, Apr. 11, is the latest creation by David Simon, the creator of "Homicide: Life on the Street," "The Corner," "Generation Kill" and what is widely considered to be one of, if not the best television show of the last decade, "the Wire." Instead of focusing on the harsh realities of living and policing in inner-city Baltimore (like "Homicide," "the Corner" and "the Wire"), Simon's new show follows a group of New Orleans residents trying to rebuild their lives three months after Hurricane Katrina.

Even if you don't normally watch dramatic shows like the ones Simon creates, it is absolutely essential television viewing to see "the Wire." His works are incredibly depressing, but they also give you an odd sense of hope. Although there are concerns that Simon, who worked in Baltimore as a reporter for years, will not be able to capture the nuances of New Orleans, I am of the strong belief that anything Simon works on is guaranteed a certain level of brilliance. That is why "Treme" is a show that should be on everyone's must-see list.

Simon has brought back many faces that are familiar to fans of his work to "Treme." "Wire" star Wendell Pierce will trade in Bunk Moreland's (his "Wire" character) cigar for a trombone, and will play a musician living in the city. "Corner" alumnus and "CSI: Miami" star Khandi Alexander plays his estranged wife. Pierce's "Wire" co-star Clarke Peters also stars, and Steve Zahn makes his television debut as a DJ and musician. As if that was not enough, Academy Award nominee (and "Homicide" alumnus) Melissa Leo will play a civil rights lawyer, and John Goodman will play her husband, a college professor (based on the trailers showing Goodman's character, it appears that one can imagine Walter Sobchak in a classroom).

"Treme" is one of those shows that has an embarrassment of riches with its cast, creators and writers (including David Mills, who sadly passed away on set last week). Even if it is one-tenth as epic and amazing as "the Wire," it will still be one of the best shows on television. Positive reviews are already pouring in, and if fans love it as much as they loved "the Wire," it will likely become just as beloved.

I encourage everyone to check out "Treme," and when you have the chance, begin watching "the Wire." By the third episode, its brilliance hits you like a ton of bricks. I cannot wait to see if "Treme" is as brilliant. I just cannot stress enough how amazing "the Wire" is, and how everyone needs to see it. You don't want to make Bunk Moreland angry and annoyed, do you?


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