OK, so I read the book a few months ago and really enjoyed it. I actually have a friend who works in a similar job to the "podsters" and found a lot to relate to with the characters. However after seeing the first two episodes of the series, I've got to say it's a major let down. First off the humour just seems to fall flat. Areas of the book where I was laughing out loud, once converted to the small screen, lose their edge and wit.
Unfortunately the characters haven't converted well either, not only is one of my favourites, Evil Mark missing altogether but Ethan's character development and relationships seem rushed. Worst of all he appears a lot less compassionate and therefore less likable. Other major characters don't live up to their literary cousins either, whether this is due more to poor scripting or bad acting I can't quite decide yet.
All in all, a clever and witty book has been stripped of its best qualities, leaving us with unlikable characters which have lost their clout in translation and therefore meander from one wacky plot turn to the next.
After episode three, the series could grow on me like a new haircut you hate at first.....but I seriously doubt it.
Your only hope with this series is to have not read or intend to read the book. but I wouldn't recommend that.
