The Book of Daniel (2006) User Reviews

An excellent show ended way too soon.

[cordrone · 9/10 · 9 November 2007]

This was a really fantastic show that was canceled far before it's time. I would have loved to have seen this show picked up on HBO at the time but it was not meant to be I guess. Instead they came out with Big Love (also very good) which in many ways is not unlike The Book of Daniel. (At least some comparisons can reasonably be drawn though I personally found TBoD to be more interesting and engrossing in it's shot run). Anyway, The Book of Daniel dealt with a great many issues (personal and social), some more topical than others, and did it in a very compelling way. Ironically the excellent messages (those of peace, love, forgiveness, understanding, and redemption) written into this finely crafted show were never heard, by most anyway, over the hate filled cries and narrow minded shouts of the people who claim to actually practice and follow these very tenets. (It is also important to point out that the vast majority of these protesters freely admitted that they never watched a moment of the show, just so you know.) Basically the show is centered around the title character Father Daniel Webster (Played expertly well by Aidan Quinn) and how he looks to Jesus Christ (Played by Garret Dillahunt) for guidance and support in what are very troubled times for himself and his family. (I guess the big stink here was that TBoD actually had an actor play Jesus Christ because a Priest turning to the Lord in times of need isn't exactly a news flash or earth shattering event even to the dimmest bulb. At any rate I felt Dillahunt actually did a good job in the role and the talks between the two characters really played rather well and helped, I felt, show the bond between this man and his God. It showed me how very personal the connection between man and God could be and it also worked well as a device because it allowed the viewer to better understand the thoughts and motivations behind the title character of Daniel. To draw a quick Shakespearian analogy the character of Jesus in TDoD is used in much the same way the character of Horatio is used in Hamlet.) In short TBoD was an excellent show that was crucified by the very people who really should have embraced it, never to rise again, which is a real shame. I'm sure it can be found on DVD for almost nothing.

I would NOT recommend this show to people who are easily offended or defensive about topics such as: Religion, aging, race, sex, sexual orientation, drugs or alcohol, violence, and/or illness as all these subjects are touched on in some way shape or form during the show.

Eight episode gem

[gandf-15728 · 8/10 · 28 January 2020]

Apparently this was somewhat controversial, and some episodes weren't aired due to coverage of the military action in Iraq at the time. I would describe it as a dramedy. Its tone tends to be more light than dramatic until the last few episodes. It has many funny moments delivered by a great ensemble cast. All cast members give sincere performances. The more dramatic later episodes I found very moving. Glad I had the opportunity to watch this. It's unfortunate that this was cancelled after so few episodes, but isn't that preferable to what happens to many TV shows - going on until it becomes dross?

Jesus sits on my Right! And he chides me!!

[yaaah_69 · 8/10 · 11 July 2006]

This was going to be one of the most promising series ever... I howled at each episode and could not wait for the next one... then I was informed the Christian right had a cow at the sight of Jesus sitting next to a priest who was on drugs , a son who was homosexual a daughter who had a nympho for a boyfriend , god what material that was going to be. But dispare , not my B. O. D. friends as there will be an 8 episode box coming out in the near future, 4 we saw and 4 we did not see plus some extras. And the pilot.It will be available 9/28 and I think it is published by TLA I thought all the actors did very well and they portrayed the inner workings of any church right on. Aiden Quinn just had his part down and Bursten tipping the wee glass of wine with her paramour was very funny. The (only) thing I might complain about was the part played by Christian he looked about 30 not sixteen. But I would not let that deter me from watching the whole series.So in closing my dear , dear Christian friends , you have made a laughing stock out of this charade and gained much disrespect from most of the world. ciao yaaah69 ciao yaaah69

Enjoyable

[jocast13 · 8 January 2006]

I liked the show.

I watched the first two episodes and was pleasantly surprised. My husband came home and started watching in the middle of it, he got all caught up in it. Luckily I had recorded it and I had to rewind it to catch him up. It had much more humor in it than I was expecting it too.

It was a drama/comedy and I will keep watching.

I was expecting it to be much more serious and not so lighthearted. I was also afraid that I would hate the scenes where he chats with Jesus, but found that they were actually enjoyable. I also liked the way Aidan Quinn dealt with all the problems he had going on at once and could still deal with his family. I have liked Aidan for many years and think he is very good in this part.

It is a Shame...

[camcaine · 10/10 · 11 August 2006]

it is a shame for the network to cancel this show. i have not laughed or cried from a TV show as much as i did on the few episodes. i would really like for some other such as showtime or HBO to pick this up, i am an anti-religious person most of the time, but the message this show extends is beyond any reservations i might of had. the issues it tackles and with such tact and wit, the writers must be admired. when this show does come out some other way, or through DVD, i highly suggest this to all who can see it. the characters and their interactions is so deep and knowledgeable of the other that you can believe they are a family. i could see so many people moved by this incredible showing.

One of the most poignant commentaries on life and faith of our time.

[pastorthad-1 · 10/10 · 24 July 2006]

The Book of Daniel was one of the most poignant TV offerings of our time. It was prematurely canceled due in large part to pressure from the religious right.

Telling the story of an Episcopal priest and his family, it touches on a full compliment of social issues as the family struggles with "real" life from a context of faith. If the viewer can keep in mind that while it is unlikely, though not impossible, for one family to face all these issues at the same time, there are are family's, both in and outside the Church, that experience each of these issues...and often in combination with others--then this show can change your life or at least the way your view your life, faith, God and the Church in general. Like real life, it tickles the funny bone, tugs at the heart strings, and causes the brain to say "hhmmmmm?" Throughout the family's struggles and joys Daniel, the priest speaks with Jesus...not just in traditional prayer to the unseen deity, but Jesus actually appears to Daniel... seated in the car next to him as he drives to and from appointments...over his shoulder in the mirror as he prepares for Sunday morning worship...even walking in the park. The character of Jesus and his conversations with Daniel (apparently offensive to some Christian mindsets) are at the heart of the show. It is here that Daniel explores his own questions of faith (also offensive to some). It is here that we see a true and real relationship between Jesus and one of his "flock." It is here that we see the Jesus of the Bible...caring, witty, smart, teacher, savior...at least the way I, a not-always-humble (mainline denomination) pastor read and understand the Bible.

Watch this series! Give it chance! Let it work on your life! If it angers you...ask "why?" If it moves you, beg for the creators to continue the story. If you feel nothing...well...really ask "why?" I love this show!!

Accolades for an excellent show and a plea for its reinstatement

[jlbpjs-1 · 10/10 · 24 September 2006]

We heard various rumors about why this show was canceled, intimating that the content offended the religious beliefs of many people. We thought that the executives who made this decision should be aware of how many people loved the show and were upset by its removal from the schedule.

As regular communicants in a conservative, "High" Episcopal church we, along with many friends, Episcopalian, agnostic and atheist alike became instantly addicted to this incisive, literate, thought provoking, endearing, spiritual and well acted show.

We wrote to the show expressing our disappointment and thanking the actors, authors, directors, producers, etc. for having given us this wonderful, if all too brief, respite from the trite, inconsequential fare that clogs many commercial television schedules.

We keep hoping that some other station executives, perhaps on cable, will take a look at this wonderful show and give it another try to develop the audience support and acclaim it richly deserves.

Just saw the series on DVD

[panorama92240 · 10/10 · 12 June 2009]

Excellent show! I can't believe that NBC buckled under the pressure from the religious right christians. This show is harmless and very entertaining. Too bad they didn't make more than 8 episodes. I can't believe how hateful the Christian right can be. There was a lot of truth in this series that they were and are afraid of....like compassion and that God loves everyone, not just them! I found the show funny, real and full of class. Aidan Quinn was marvelous and very compassionate. Shame on the Christian right for bullying their way into censoring a classy, bold TV series. NBC has gone down hill for quite some time. A series like this could have helped them compete with the other networks. This series was comparable to CBS's 'Brothers and Sisters' or maybe even a little better. I found myself laughing one minute and crying the next. That's good, wholesome entertainment as far as I'm concerned. NBC, you lost on this one. I rarely watch anything on that network because most of the shows are mindless entertainment. Also, I heard it was on TV on Friday nights....one of the worst nights to be on to draw an audience! It was doomed from the start with a weak viewing base and an even weaker network to be on. This show needs to be rejuvenated on a network like HBO or Showtime where the Christian right has no influence!

I cannot believe that this show was canceled after 4 shows.

[omegal · 10/10 · 29 April 2006]

I have to agree with the last users comments about reality TV and horrible writers for shows. This show, "The Book of Daniel" had great promise. Watching it took my interest almost right away. It was a complex show with many complex stories filled with problems just like real life. You really had to follow it and pay attention because it was a very multitasking show. I found it very entertaining and soap opera-like. The people that starred in it were a perfect match for the show. To me, I thought this show had great success written all over it. Yes it did have some odd twists in it but over-all, I loved it. I'm very disheartened about its cancellation that happened rather abruptly. They did say, before the show was about to air, that their would be great controversy in it. Well doesn't that reflect real life? Now no one will ever know the success this show could have brung to us all. What new soap opera twists were going to happen next. I feel it was a crummy decision to take The Book of Daniel off the air. This show always had great answers to the problems that existed on it. It was a teaching tool to me.

Just like the other person commented, all we're stuck with, these days, are a lot of very boring and sometimes very graphic reality TV shows. I'm waiting for someone to die on one of the shows some day so they all will go. I guess the freedom of what you want to watch on TV now is now guided by complaints from it's viewers rather than the shows' ratings. This is truly a sad 21st century for television. If you don't like what you see, there is the remote control ya know.

Omega..

four episodes?!

[dazedandconfused_uk · 10/10 · 23 November 2006]

Thankfully, I don't live in a country where incredible TV is pulled due to religious pressure, and as a result was able to see all the episodes that were filmed. This was an incredible show, regardless of the religious connotations, and had any of the fundamentalists who pressured the network to cancel it, bothered to watch any episodes they would have been greeted by a warm, funny, touching and ultimately uplifting drama. The casting was brilliant, the performances all spot on, but the best thing about The Book of Daniel was the incredible writing. Dialogue that rivals anything that Aaron Sorkin has to offer, an incredible knowledge of the church and a great sense of humour combined to near perfection for eight episodes. The Book of Daniel will be sorely missed by everyone who was lucky enough to catch it.

Dysfunction for dysfunction's sake

[SnoopyStyle · 6/10 · 12 September 2013]

St. Barnabas's episcopalian vicar Daniel Webster (Aidan Quinn) has a successful parish, but a complicated life. His son Peter (Christian Campbell) is a closeted gay. His adopted brother Adam (Ivan Shaw) is incorrigible. Garret Dillahunt plays his Jesus Christ vision.

This was a lowly rated show which some found offensive at the time. Although I didn't find it offensive unless you think being bored is offensive. The whole messy family just scream desperation as they hit almost all the hot button issues. It was dysfunction for dysfunction's sake. I didn't find one character who's compelling. They only made 8 episodes and was canceled even before that. The ratings were low, so I wasn't the only one who didn't get it.

Excellent show

[Bobonthecouch · 9/10 · 18 July 2017]

This was a very insightful, thoughtful, intelligent show that dealt with real life problems in a compassionate way with humor and empathy. It is a real shame it was terminated prematurely thanks to some narrow minded hypocrites and network execs with no fortitude. So, now let's sit back and enjoy the wholesome goodness of deception, back-stabbing, cut-throat competition and completely reprehensible behavior of our beloved "reality" show contestants. Who will sleep with whom? Why was bold-faced lying the most effective play? And "NONE of them are my baby's daddy? Really?" "I TOLD you beeotch!!!"

Addendum: The way I rate shows... I don't usually review anything less than a 7 because 6 would be a failing grade and I won't waste my time watching it. I'm old; I don't know how much time I've got left. Since I probably turned it off before getting even halfway through, it wouldn't be fair to rate or review it. 7 is watchable but I may go a while between episodes since, though somewhat entertaining, there are other shows more interesting or compelling. 8 would be a regular in my lineup. 9 is a must see and probably bingeable. 10 is just the epitome of superbity and headed for my all-time favorites list. I'm adding this to my reviews because it seems there are a lot of binary reactions to pretty much everything these days. I am not a like/unlike kind of guy. I see a lot of grays so if I give something a 10 it doesn't mean the only alternative is a 1.

Overkill

[sawznhamrs-1 · 1/10 · 23 September 2006]

Since I saw only the first episode, I limit my comments to this one. The concept of the show or the premise is something that I thought deserving of the attention it could bring to modern day Christianity. However, for a first episode, I felt the writers failed miserably. Those of us who were raised attending church, at least in the South, might assume that troubled children of preachers or ministers are expected. Somehow the pressures of being the children of one who is considered above reproach, superior in spiritual ways, manifests itself as rebellion. It was common as I was growing up to refer to these kids as "PK's" or preacher's kids. The Book of Daniel portrayed in the very first episode this stereotype to the extreme. It would have benefited greatly by developing the characters over several episodes instead of splashing the evils of the PK's into our living-rooms. Reality is, yes, preacher's kids are involved in drugs, sexual activity, some are gay. And moms of these kids may cope by drinking or using prescription medications. Perhaps there was some reasoning for all the flaws of the family to be exposed on the very first show. It would have been much more realistic to have the kids be more secretive about their lives, and to reveal their characters as the parents became more aware the issues with their kids over time. A process of discovery, an unfolding, instead of a splat.

I love Aidan Quinn and his acting was superb. Again, the writing was to blame I think. His character as a minister approached these shocking behaviors with casual familiarity. Any parent, minister or not, should exhibit more concern than Quinn's character was allowed.

The network cheated itself of the opportunity to use this great cast just by splattering the entire episode with extremes. I am certain that taking the time for character development would have intrigued the viewers, and would have enticed me to be a devoted fan of the show. NBC blew it, and they won't get a second chance at a show with this subject matter, which could have opened many doors of communication about faith and worldly issues.

Most original, witty, show in years.

[moviefreak57 · 6 January 2006]

I Recently sat down to watch The Book of Daniel to see what all this fuss was around it. I heard tons of rumours. The hardcore conservative church ladies were calling it " a wrongful display of Jesus" which surprises me because the menopause oppressed crazy women haven't even seen the show yet.

Could this show be as wrong and crude display as people have expressed. Well...no, these people are just so stuck to their original upbringings to even open up their eyes to something a little new. Besides that the show is actually respecting the entire Christian faith.

Back to the matter at hand. I watched it and found one of the most amazing witty dramas on television. It depicts the modern world in such a perfect way. It includes everything, homosexuals, alcholics, drug dealers, SUPER conservative CHristians, Liberal, anything. Its paced perfectly. The show keeps moving, taking different directions. Its a lot better than the over rated Desperate Housewives.

My Opinion: Don't listen to what other people say. That includes you Christians. No one should be offended by this, if so i think they're just a little tight.

It's about the tough questions

[msophiac · 9/10 · 25 October 2006]

Having read some of the reviews on this show, it is astonishing to see this mini-series characterized as an "anti-religious" show, and those who enjoy religion bashing will like it OK...etc, but it is sure to cause deep resentment among those who are "religious types". Yes, resentment was apparently enough to cancel the show, but this scrip addresses very real questions we all have to deal with in a post-modern world where almost every family is touched by alcohol or drug addiction, a gay relative, and facing end of life and death issues. Frankly, I think the show is profoundly religious, with a honestly real "slice of life" look at the modern churches today who happen to be liberal. They really do pray, they really do think, they really do try and make meaning of the modern world's many dilemmas with compassion, honesty, and courage. Should the minister have shut his gay son out of his house? Is that a better alternative to accepting him as he is and loving and supporting him in his own choices? Unfortunately (and this is a spoiler), the all too real gang beating and heart-wrenching pain of letting go of their gay son was a bit too real, in my opinion, but some of the best TV drama I have seen in a while. And it was a very honest Jesus. The radical one I read about in the Bible, who always stood on the cutting edge and was victim of righteous persecution his whole life. The kind of Jesus Daniel (played by Aiden Quinn in a one of his best performances) had a personal relationship with, despite the fact that he struggled with his own doubts in the face of life's hardest questions. The kind of Jesus who, in my opinion,would not display any righteous anger at this show's content, because the theme is not sex, drugs, and death (we see enough of that every day) but the hard questions they pose when they touch today's Christian lives.

A waste of time

[thehouseminder · 1/10 · 12 July 2006]

I am a huge fan of Aidan Quinn but "Book of Daniel" was an enormous mistake. I tuned in to see what all the fuss was about. Inaccurate portrayals of Christians and what they believe is one thing. Turns out, the show is so bad that I believe it would be have been canceled almost immediately anyway. The plot lines are disjointed and the characters are too bizarre. It is impossible to like or care about any one of them. I think the network believed this would be a hit for them, not on its' own merits but, simply because the show was controversial and truly profane. Too bad for the network and too bad for Quinn. Next time, maybe they should take the time to find out what their characters are really all about.

I'm a conservative Episcopalian, and I loved the show.

[akcampbell · 6 January 2006]

Jesus practiced forgiveness and acceptance, so as a preface, consider the Buddhist philosophy that the path to Heaven is like a mountain. There are many paths leading upward, and the only person wasting his time is the one running around the mountain telling everyone else they are doing it wrong.

I turned the show on expecting to be infuriated, but I am very impressed. I think the show (the first episode, at least) is clever, well-written and not remotely offensive. Before you think, "Well, those godless Episcopal heathens have a gay bishop," know that I am among the more conservative Episcopalians, and the show very accurately reflects the conversations I have in my head with Jesus. OK, so I've never seen him sitting in the passenger seat of my car or loitering outside my half bath, but artistic license covers that base.

I don't think this is an Christian vs. Hollywood issue, or at least it shouldn't be. This is flattering to Christians -- something that has been sorely lacking in recent years, thanks to televangelists and their air conditioned dog houses. Most of America is Christian, and there is entertainment enough in this show for everyone, whether they are watching it for the God content or not.

Per Sportbronco's comment, I read the Bible and I think it makes me more of a thinker, not less. And just because you believe in God doesn't mean you are humorless. When you study the Bible in an historical context, you see that Jesus had a pretty good sense of humor. That's one of the things I really like about this show that I think others may be taking issue with. I fully believe he would have cracked a one-liner. Jesus was fully God, but also fully human.

Same with Daniel -- fully priest and also fully regular-guy. Why is it offensive that a priest isn't perfect? Who says he can't have a daughter who makes an error in judgment, an adopted son who's having sex in his parents' car, a gay son whom he loves? A cheating dad/imperfect bishop, a mother with Alzheimer's, snipe-fests with his wife over their sex life? Now, the fact that the family has a housekeeper is atypical -- these people aren't rich in real life. And the bigoted cow who made the remark about "oriental grandchildren" -- that was unfortunate. But every story has to have a villain, and she and her bullied, bullying, condescending husband are it.

To the people who are concerned that this sort of material is detrimental, I must respectfully disagree. I find it hard to believe that someone would be condemned for considering Jesus a good friend he turns to when he has troubles. Isn't putting Jesus into the context of our lives and having a close relationship what we are supposed to do? I think that is the most basic tenet of this show.

Based on all the savage reviews I had heard, I was all set to drum up a letter writing campaign to the network (which I see as voicing an opinion, not promoting censorship, and something people in the majority don't do nearly often enough because they feel guilty about being in the majority in the first place).

But then I watched the premiere, and I really enjoyed it. If "The Book of Daniel" brings anyone to church, if it shows them that maybe it's a place where they will be accepted in spite of their flaws, if it encourages them to keep trying to be better in spite of their weaknesses -- then I'm all for it.

We don't watch a lot of TV, but this show is entertaining and real, and it had earned a place in our viewing pantheon.

This show wasn't well thought out

[togotogo200 · 1/10 · 1 December 2006]

I have read about 2 pages of comments for this short-lived series. The general consensus seems to be that this was a well written and topical show that was yanked off the air by scared short-sighted TV execs. How can anyone really believe that nonsense. Whenever I hear the hype that a series "pushes the limits" or any of dozens of other metaphors, it is usually a good bet that the hype is covering up a really horrible show. This show was no exception.

It wasn't well written, the characters were stock and the dialogue was insipid. No real thought was given to plot or characterization. The show was all about shock value, although I hesitate to use the word "value" in a review about this show. Finally, contrary to popular belief at this site; this show wasn't canceled because of a boycott by the "religious right". It was taken off the air because no one was watching. When all is said and done, it doesn't matter if your show is "pushing the envelope". If you can't pay the light bills, you can't exist. This show couldn't keep a flashlight going.

Desperate Priests meet 6 Feet Under

[BruceKeithDesign · 6 January 2006]

This is one of the best premieres since "Desperate Housewives". Edgy as an HBO show, spiritual as 7th Heaven, and as beautifully dysfunctional as Six Feet Under. Aiden Quinn brings an offbeat rudder to this ship of wonderfully happy dysfunctional family. A talented cast of familiar faces play straight men to the priest and his tribe. A spiritual adviser offers well placed advice which, I'm sure, puts the Christian right on edge. Ellen Bursten is rediscovered as the pill popping Bishop while the acceptance of the gay son is the first truly poignant integration of a true gay role in a true family.

The closest drama to a true reality show on television. Welcome back NBC

Sad choice to cancel this program

[sartboy · 1/10 · 23 April 2007]

When the press reviews about The Book of Daniel hit the airwaves and news stands chatting about all of the controversy and socio-political upheaval that the program had generated, my interest in the show was piqued, logically. I am a Jewish man and always at least a little interested in the mass media entertainment industry's portrayal of people of the Christian faiths, but am often bored with the story lines and degree of cheese factor most often prominently worn by shows of this genre. Somewhat reluctantly, I decided to watch the pilot and was more than impressed-- not because of the so-called blasphemy or anti-Christian-Right sentiment projected by this program (there truly was none of this to be seen), but because of the thoughtful nature of the show's voice and genuinely hip air that the entire show had. The stories' characters were actually interesting; the plot lines, although a little haggard, were fabulously entertaining when presented on this stage; the timing, overall writing and staging, casting, etc. were far more engaging than anything else airing on prime time "Big Three" (CBS, NBC & ABC) television. Not because it was so "edgy" or tweaked some people's bolts a little too tight or frankly ticked some people off, but because the show was just THAT GOOD-- as far as mainstream TV programming goes. To hell with uptight Christian right-wing groups. If they don't want to watch shows like this, they can change the channel to their own networks and watch idealistic, lost-in-the-faith shows that no one but them will watch. Why let the Christian Right and Fundamentalist Republican America (a VERY SMALL percentage of the population) dictate/ mandate what standards our media works by? There are many more people in the country who would greatly appreciate having their voices heard and be served programming that does not fit the idealist, boring mold set up by the uptight few with big money. What, really, is the threat that these people face, anyway? If they are so scared that someone may look at Christianity for all or any of its flaws/ inconsistencies, then, perhaps, more time and energy should be invested in correcting these troubles than attempting to levy censorship to just try and cover it all up. Wake up, people and join the real world.

Still trying to decide

[rogr-1 · 7 January 2006]

I've heard all the bad press on this "anti-Christian" show. Well, I am a Christian. I am also a conservative, real conservative. I find myself loving old reruns and old movies quite a bit and disliking "modern" shows more and more. Yet, I'm still trying to decide where I stand on this show. I actually recorded it so I could watch w/o missing anything.

Something I loved was when Daniel asks Jesus if he is chosen, since Jesus so often talks with him. Jesus responds. that he talks to most people, but most don't listen. As a Christian, I can totally agree with that concept. I also love Daniels apparent practice of grace. Grace is the concept that allows Christians to accept people without judgment. But, it's one thing not to judge people, it's quite another to let someone play with fire, w/o telling them they'll be burned.

For example, when that engaged couple comes to him for counseling. My church and most other churches will tell the couple that sex before marriage is wrong, instead he gives them advice less out of the Bible, and more out of Dr. Ruth's handbook.

Outside of my Christian viewpoint, I've one other criticism of the show. It's trying too hard. This one family has a gay son, another son that has sex with every girl he meets, a daughter that is dealing drugs, a father/husband that appears to have an addiction to his pain pills, an alcoholic wife/mother, a lesbian sister in law, a mother/grandmother that has Alzhimers--sorry for the spelling on that one-, a father/grandfather that may be having an affair, and a best friend with mob connections.

SLOW DOWN!!!! I know that we all have problems, but egad, can't they let someone be normal.

I am glad of the positive portrayal of Jesus though. Was I the only one that noticed he was wearing a seat belt?

Cautionary Tale: Write What you know!

[holdingourown · 1/10 · 4 April 2023]

The Book of Daniel was the small screen's attempt to capitalize on the success of Mel Gibson's independent hit movie "The Passion of the Christ". It's a trend in entertainment for competitors to give people more of what works. The problem with this formula is that you can't make a cookie-cutter clone of something and people will watch. Obviously the network and creative forces behind "The Book of Daniel" said, "People want religion. Just make any show with religion and everyone who went to see "The Passion" will watch us. Wrong. You need to write quality material and engaging stories, and know what you're writing about. The pastor in "The Book of Daniel" talks to a version of Christ who really doesn't speak the way Christ would. "Life is hard", says Pastor Daniel. "That's why it's so rewarding at the end." Not for everyone! Maybe the writers could familiarize themselves with the Christian faith, instead impose their new age philosophy on everything. There are other ways of looking at the world. The pastor talks flippantly about a per-marital couple's sex life, without concern for their souls, or offer some advice and guidance, which a priest would do, especially during marriage counseling. The program's lazy writing was an insult to anyone who took their faith seriously. So, having failed to capture the market, and amid well-deserved dismal ratings, this program was shelved, and Hollywood gave up on trying to use faith as a means to attract viewers, never knowing why they failed in the first place.

Funny Dramady

[taister · 7 January 2006]

I enjoyed watching the 2 hour premiere of this show. It was light-hearted and I thought the character development was great! The issues of the characters were real situations that probably exist more than you would think in families. Aiden Quinn is fantastic as Daniel. The person who plays his wife is funny as well. The adopted son was a little obnoxious at first but I think that was just part of developing the character. I really liked the scenes when Daniel talks to Jesus. Again is mostly light-hearted. It shows the close relationship he has with Jesus and how he always looks to him for guidance. I hope they develop the Nanny lady's character more in the future. I felt they kind of left us hanging when it came to her. I think she will be an important part of the plot line of the show. This show makes me want to start going to church again! I hope this show has a long shelf life. I recommend it totally!

Shocked that NBC dropped the show

[clemens1961 · 28 January 2006]

We were looking forward to the debut of "The Book of Daniel" before it even came out. As a Lutheran pastor, I thought the idea to portray the everyday life of an Episcopal priest's family sounded very interesting. After seeing the first episode our family (a daughter [16] and and son [13]) made Friday evening the time to watch "The Book of Daniel" together. Even though there were some overdrawn plots, and maybe too much going on at the same time, we greatly enjoyed watching the show because to a pastor's family so much of it rang true. It was even refreshing to see Jesus enter the life of Fr. Daniel Webster. It showed how Jesus is present in everyday life, sometimes supportive and understanding, sometimes uncovering the vices. I was absolutely stunned when we turned on the television last night expecting to see the show when we found out that NBC abruptly pulled it off the air after only four episodes. I wish that there will be a place to see the rest of the show. I am upset that the opinion of the religious right has the power to take away a show greatly enjoyed by other Christian people of faith that happen to not be as closed as they are. It is interesting that the larger political debate and divide has now even effected a television show like this one.

There is Hope for Television

[jim-1542 · 6 January 2006]

I have avoided network television (except sports, news and weather) for years due to steady stream of mind numbing "reality shows" and the worst writing since television first became a staple in the American home.

Finally a well written, creative and well cast show that dares to bring comedy back by poking fun at religion. Plus, it does this within the constraints of Network censors.

It still needs some work with timing and character development, but given a chance it could become the most original and best comedy since SOAP.

Somebody learned for Susan Harris.

Great Show.