Tread Perilously is a podcast in which hosts Erik Amaya and author Justin Robinson watch the “worst” episodes of popular TV shows, attempting to determine if they would continue to watch the series based on the most off-key moments.

This Week: Fearless‘ “Pilot”

Tread Perilously begins a special experiment with a month of failed television pilots. Up first, the WB 2004 pilot for Fearless starring Rachel Leigh Cook.

Gaia Moore was born without the “fear gene.” Consequently, her reflexes are heightened to compensate for the lack of a fight-or-flight response. While it makes little sense, it makes her an ideal candidate for the FBI and a special taskforce handling “young crime.” Her first case sees Gaia and the team on the trail of a major identity thief. But when the confidential informant helping on the case turns out to be the ID thief’s son, Gaia will have to use her lack of fear to save the day. Meanwhile, her knew partners try to uncover her secret.

Justin and Erik discuss the importance of beta readers for writing projects of all types. Ian Somerhalder becomes “Ian Smoulderhalder” because of course he does. Justin points out the supporting cast made notable guest appearances on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Erik begins his fantasy casting for Denis Villeneuve’s upcoming Dune. He also points out how far away 2004 feels. Justin defends Cook despite the terrible dialogue she speaks throughout. Erik considers how the careful application of cyberpunk would solve many of the pilot’s problems, and both attempt to find better roles for Cook.

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