Is ‘Luck’ the winning series of HBO?
The broadcasting of the new HBO series Luck, there is finally something that enthusiasts of horse-racing can look forward to. With the excess of cop shows and shows about elite teenagers, this is finally a show that caters to the needs of a different
kind of group altogether.
The show was immediately taken up for a second season after an enthralling first season, which was an instant success. The plot revolves around Chester ‘Ace’ Bernstein, played by Dustin Hoffman, who comes back from prison after serving a sentence
of three years. On his return, he gets informed by his driver that an Irish horse has been purchased which could not be bought by Ace based on his prison record. This event sets the pace for the show.
The show is grounded in reality, as it is directed by David Milch. Santa Anita Park played a major role in his life, and is now a major part of this show. The plot reflects the personal experiences of Milch as his father used to take him to see the
races when he was young. His passion for this sport has made him into the man he is today, and he wanted to give the audience the feel of some of his childhood experiences.
He attempts to bring a non-conventional sport to the screen, which ultimately had a mixed response. Fans of this sport appreciate the effort and applaud its originality. Ted McClelland, author of "Horseplayers: Life at the Track" has shown great appreciation
for this show. He claims that it is a very good way of learning about the sport if someone has not been very familiar with the race track.
The show has been criticised massively based on the technical jargon in the script. Critics claim that the use of race terms may not work in the favour of the network. The audience may find it unappealing as the vocabulary might be difficult to translate.
Terms such as chalk, bug boy, or pick six are not known by people who are unfamiliar with the sport.
Another criticism of this show revolves around the inhumane treatment of the horses. They have known to be injured on multiple occasions.
Even with its massive success, a lot of controversy revolves around this show. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) question the safety of the working environment time and time again. The death of two horses on the set of this show did
not go unnoticed, as it created a massive uproar against HBO. The two horses sustained injuries, which could not be treated, and eventually had to be euthanised.
HBO has defended its stance by saying that the horses that are part of this show do not go through exhaustive routines, and they are allowed to rest after short runs.
The show does not have a specific demographic, and it is gaining popularity among people of all ages. The show’s success is based on the fact that it portrays a different faction of lifestyle, one that most people have not experienced before. They
are keen to learn about a sport which is not very popular in the mainstream culture.
With possibly the best celebrity cast starring Dustin Hoffman, Nick Nolte, and Dennis Farina, it only adds to the appeal of the show. The show’s originality is also welcomed and has captured the attention of many viewers.
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