After decades of being shunned by Hollywood television producers in favor of Black and even Asian programming, Hispanics finally got the opportunity to score a touchdown this season with “Promised Land,” a prime time Mexican soup opera. ABC gambled by placing the hour long drama in the coveted 10pm slot on Monday night, and its had some interesting reviews, from outstanding to terrible. Perhaps it depends on the viewing audience.
The best way I can describe the developing plot of “Promised Land” is to say that it’s a “Dallas-type” saga with a Latino theme. It’s provocative, raw and sexy with plenty of adult scenes and violence to hold your attention. Maybe that’s not your cup of tea, but try not to be too judgmental.
The series is centered around Joe Sandoval (played by John Ortiz) who developed from scratch one of the largest wineries in the country called Heritage House in Sonoma, California. Joe is a dapper guy with a huge ego who is contemplating retirement and would like to pass along the business to one or a pair of his numerous children. So those plans have the siblings jockeying for position, creating a scenario of jealousy and backstabbing ugliness. Adding to the mix is hotel magnate Margaret Honeycroft (Bellamy Young), Joe’s old flame turned enemy who is plotting to take over the winery.
Also involved is an undocumented worker named Carlos (Andres Velez) who came from Mexico to join his brother, a jefe in the vineyards with a side gig fixing immigrant papers. But Carlos has big dreams of muscling his way into the property picture. Meanwhile, Joe’s wife Lettie (Cecilia Suarez) often finds herself in the middle of the sibling’s battle and Joe’s temper.
The series might seem unrealistic to some, since Mexicans are often stereotyped as dirt poor farm workers. “Promised Land” has occasional scenes of folks tending the vineyards, but mostly zeros in on the privileged Sandoval clan, drinking 24/7 and hanging out at the swimming pool behind a huge mansion. Truth be told, lifestyles of the rich and famous are not restricted to any particular race or skin color. So just sit back on the couch and soak in the culture. I saw the first two episodes and enjoyed them, although the scenes are fast-moving and it takes time to figure out the personality traits of all the characters involved. Everyone except Joe of course, a charming guy at times but basically a macho ass hole from the get go.
So feel free to catch up when “Promised Land” resumes on February 7th and join the party. Whether you like it or not, I guarantee that you’ll be entertained.
