Korean Job Discussion Forums

kermo · Posted: Mon Dec 18, 2006 5:45 am Post subject: TV Show: Heroes

I've been enjoying this show on fanpop.com (thanks jajdude!).
I wasn't too keen on the first episode, but continued on the advice of a friend. I've found it to be very compelling, quite smart, well-acted and written, etc.

I'm starting this thread because I've got a question. I'm fond of the character "Hiro" but I'm wondering-- does anyone else find him a bit racist? The other Japanese guy, Ando, seems quite normal so maybe it's just the character going to extremes. He does seem to play into a few stereotypes though. I still like the show, but this guy (especially in the first few shows) has me scratching my head.

SarcasmKills · Joined: 07 Apr 2003 Location: Seoul

Qinella · Joined: 25 Feb 2005 Location: the crib

What did he say that sounded racist to you? I haven't noticed that. Maybe his agrosshi is too sirt?

I do think it's weird how his English magically gets better with each episode. Maybe it's like just assumed that since he's Japanese, he spends four hours each night studying.

kermo · Posted: Mon Dec 18, 2006 6:27 am Post subject:

Hiro is just really bombastic, squeaky and child-like, whereas Ando is more streetwise, composed and "cool." I wouldn't say it has anything to do with his English.

Maybe Hiro is resonating with some stereotypes that I can't articulate... no... wait, I've got it. It's his lack of dignity.

Perhaps North American producers have gone so far out of their way to represent racial "minorities" in positive roles that it just strikes me as weird to see an Asian guy acting silly.

laogaiguk · Joined: 06 Dec 2005 Location: somewhere in Korea

WHo cares, the show is cool. Just watched episode 11 and can't wait for the next one. Things are starting to somewhat fall into place now. I like how they just randomly kill people off you don't expect, but the two girls they killed off, I really liked them... Still, with all the crap on TV nowadays, this is a real treat.

kermo · Posted: Thu Dec 21, 2006 4:07 am Post subject:

I agree-- it's no big deal. It just started me to see an Asian acting like such a goof on American television. Smile

I'm looking forward to the next show too, which apparently won't be for 6 more weeks, according to this snarky recap site! Crying or Very sad

laogaiguk · Joined: 06 Dec 2005 Location: somewhere in Korea

SuperHero · Joined: 10 Dec 2003 Location: Superhero Hideout

I've watched 4 episodes and loving it.

Captain Corea · Joined: 28 Feb 2005 Location: Seoul

I'm lovin' this show as well... but I'm sure that comes as no surprise to you guys.

Superheroes rock Wink

SuperHero · Joined: 10 Dec 2003 Location: Superhero Hideout

riley · Joined: 08 Feb 2003 Location: where creditors can find me

I just assumed that he's really geeky, an otaku. Actually, I like him the most.

An interesting note, the actor who plays him is actually a computer programmer who has done a lot of CGI work for films including "A Perfect Storm"

Jasobang · Joined: 11 Dec 2005 Location: Bucheon

Just a comment on Hiro's English ability. In some scenes he is returning from the future, as in the subway scene, and his English is almost perfect. This actually fits in pefectly with the story line. And besides, if he is able to go back in time at will, why wouldn't he just jump back a number of years and study English. That way he could pop back into the present as a fluent speaker.

BTW, I'm lovin' the show. I first got a glimpse on Monday Night Football via TVU, downloaded the season, upto now, and passed it on to the family back home. Can't wait for number 12.