Wednesday, February 18, 2009

episode 8-13 (Feb. 18): Top 36, group 1 results

I'm not going to go deep into this episode, nor will I likely go too deep into any results episode unless it's really heavy on the performances. However, there are a few things I need to get off my chest:

* The first group number of the season! Yay! By which I mean GOOD LORD WAS THAT AWFUL. I find it hard to believe that the producers get together after the episode shoots and say "Wow, that number was a total winner!" I mean... really. Assuming that Ricky Minor still has any taste left, this must be the most painful moment of the week-- only slight more painful than rehearsing it, of course.

* The background music underneath the result revelation is more disturbing than ever. Yes, I get it, they're creating more suspense, and it's been the trend on game shows since about 1999 that they slow down the revelations and use vaguely pulsing and ethereal music to do it. (I admit, the studio scenes in Slumdog Millionaire brought all of those tense memories rushing back.) But this music is out of control, with the heartbeat and the swelling dark choral harmonies. I wasn't sure if I was watching American Idol or meeting 343 Guilty Spark for the first time.

* The "game" of the show is now more confusing than ever. If there's a wild-card show (on March 5th), why does Ryan keep saying "You're not in the Top 12" and let them cry and hug as thought they're done? Are the producers regretting this stupid format and hoping people will just forget about it if Ryan fails to bring it up? It's like a twist we're being encouraged not to give a crap about. Huh?

* Rickey Minor needs to go. He should be ashamed of himself. Singing careers are riding on his ability to NOT SABOTAGE THEM. Ugh. (See previous posting.)

Another 12 up for arbitrary elimination but also possible resurrection next Wednesday. Did I get that right?

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