Fringe

The new series by JJ Abrams. I watched the pilot episode tonight--comparisons have already been made with The X-Files. But I don't think it will have the same paranormal element as The X-Files--it seems to be more of a science-fiction thriller, with a possible conspiracy to dominate the world involving a large corporation (and members of the government?). Maybe they'll find an island with some strange powers, too. I don't know how the ratings for the first episode were, so I won't make any predictions as to whether it will finish the season and be renewed. Despite the initial gore factor, I don't find it as creepy as The X-Files, or as suspenseful. "Pacey" is fine and John Noble does a good job playing a scientist who is slightly unhinged.

A large corporation with the 'power' of science at its disposal and pursuing an unknown agenda. Given the implausibility of the science involved, the show's entertainment value for me is very limited. (Unless it were dealing with the AC--in which case, it might be more interesting.)

Edit. Each episode of The X-Files usually ended up with the agents typing up some sort of report, even if there were unanswered questions. *spoiler warning* After the mastermind behind the chemical attack was killed, the question of his motives and his collaborators (or leaders) was left unaddressed. Was it assumed to be a part of "The Pattern"? What evidence is there for this connection? Why couldn't he just be one person developing a MWD? Why must there be a single mind or organization conducting destructive scientific "experiments" all over the word? What evidence is there for a conspiracy? It seems that if one pulls this string, the rest of the show unravels, as it loses a plausible foundation for the story.