So I have a confession to make.
After my previous post on the ostensibly Israel-bashing ways of Quantico, I actually went ahead and started watching the show. Partly, because I wanted to see for myself, but also because my friend Mark Pellegrino stars in it.
Having watched the first 10 episodes, my view has changed. I would not say the show is anti-Israel. Yes, there is the character of Simon, who laments what he did in the IDF. But the latest episode straight out mentioned Hamas’ use of human shields, which is rare for prime time television.
After that outburst by the Muslim Nimah, one of the main characters, Ryan, a marine vet, defends Simon, saying “No, a soldier isn’t a criminal just because you don’t believe in their war, Nimah.”
Later on, Simon mentions the atrocities in Gaza he had previously alluded to – a rogue commander torturing the wives of terrorists. The fact it is explained as a rogue commander and not entrenched misconduct is something I guess.
Without giving away more of the plot, the show tries to be somewhat even-handed – against violence by both sides – which is problematic but typical of Hollywood and certainly not the same as being anti-Israel.
What the show is definitely guilty of is being silly.
