24 Season 5 Prequel

This is an 11-minute peek at the fifth season of 24. Well, actually it's about 8 or 9-minute look as the first few minutes just rehash the ending of Season Four.

"Jack Bauer" (Kiefer Sutherland), whom we last saw walking on railroad tracks out in the middle of somewhere, down in or near Mexico, is dropped off by Tony and Michelle. Jack is officially "dead" and must start life all over again with a new identity. Only a few people at C.T.U. will know this fact.

I will miss seeing the actress, Reiko Aylesworth, who played Michelle. I never got tired of looking at her face. I guess we've seen the last of her, Tony and President Palmer (Dennis Haysbert, who now stars in "The Unit.) They will be sorely missed by me.

What we see in this prequel is Jack now in Chicago. How or why he's three is not explained. He almost looks a street person: dirty, unshaven, hair down to his shoulders and wearing old clothes. He meets Chole, who now looks different with her hair down, and the C.T.U. analyst warns Jack that somebody got into the files and knows he's not dead, and she's worried it could be someone who will try to kill him. She's there to warn him.

Seconds later, Jack then gets into this car chase after someone in a car fires at him, and there is a mysterious man on a motorcycle taking it all in? There is no explanation of what it all means. Why he is in Chicago and who these people are who are after him, it doesn't say. I guess I'll have to watch Season Five to find out. That's the whole idea of this "prequel."

The 11-minute prequel to Season 5 sets the stage for the dramatic events to follow, offering a brief yet intense glimpse into the chaotic world of "24." This episode introduces us to the immediate aftermath of a major terrorist attack, with Jack Bauer once again thrust into the heart of the crisis. The pacing is rapid, ensuring that even in this short span, the tension is palpable.

A standout moment in this prequel is Jack's desperate attempt to secure crucial information from a reluctant informant. The scene is marked by tight editing and close-up shots that amplify the urgency and intensity. Critics from IGN praised the episode for its "gripping and concise storytelling," noting how effectively it sets up the season's central conflict.

The prequel also hints at the personal stakes for Jack, touching on his strained relationships and the emotional burden he carries. Kiefer Sutherland's performance is compelling, conveying Jack's determination and inner turmoil. The supporting characters, though briefly introduced, leave a strong impression, hinting at their significant roles in the upcoming season.

Visually, the episode maintains the series' signature style with its use of split screens and real-time action. The sound design is equally effective, with a pulsating score that heightens the sense of urgency. The cinematography uses shadows and low lighting to create an atmosphere of tension and foreboding.

In conclusion, the prequel is a powerful setup for Season 5, providing a thrilling and emotional entry point into the new storyline. The concise yet impactful storytelling, combined with strong performances and high production values, leaves viewers eager to dive into the full season.

This makes us aware that someone knows about Jack. It's a sort of rerun of Season 4. It helps set up the issues that took place in the concluding minutes where Jack is forced into exile.