It’s been confirmed Life Unexpected isn’t going to receive a back nine of episodes. Though the show hasn’t officially been cancelled it’s pretty evident that episode 13 will be its series finale.
Fans were worried when the show only received an order for additional scripts and The CW gave full season orders to freshmans Nikita and Hellcats as well as its more established line up. The show has been struggling in the ratings this season and seemed to be the show most likely to be cancelled first by the network.
When season one of Life Unexpected premiered I was one of its biggest supporters. I even went so far to voice why I would pick it over One Tree Hill if only one of them was renewed last season. Something has changed of late. Though I still watch it, I don’t have the same enthusiasm for the show as I did in the first season. I’ve been disappointed with certain aspects and I haven’t liked the path they’ve taken. My main issue has been about Lux’s relationship with teacher, Eric Daniels. Part of the problem is that this story is being done on Gossip Girl and Pretty Little Liars and in my opinion PLL is doing it better.
I’m still a supporter of the show and I do wish for it to continue. Its still a well written show with the potential to grow. This news doesn’t help but anything is possible.
Showing posts with label The CW. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The CW. Show all posts
Wednesday, 3 November 2010
Thursday, 9 September 2010
Returning shows I'm looking forward to
After waiting all summer, the time has finally come for the shows that ended in May, to return. Thought there are many shows I'm looking forward to returning, there are some that I'm looking forward to more.
The Vampire Diaries
This show was one of the best new shows last year. It had the ability to keep me on the edge of my seat every episode and its finale was no different. It was a finale that had me buzzing about it weeks after I saw it. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it from the very first episode as I was rolling my eyes at yet another show about vampires but somehow it continues to be fresh.
Grey's Anatomy
Like The Vampire Diaries, it was one of my favourite finales but for different reasons - it played upon the emotions. We were promised a game changer and it certainly delivered. How the characters deal with the aftermath is the question.
Fringe
This show is in my top 5 shows and like the previous two, was one of my favourite finales. The show just keeps getting better with outstanding performances and storylines. With the alternative universe being shown more, the show looks to keep up its consistency of being something not to miss.
Community
This is one of my favourite comedies and if you haven't seen it already, just watch the episode Modern Warfare and you'll be hooked. It has one of the best ensembles with funny and consistent writing. I shall continue to review the episodes on Series.nu
Other shows that I'm looking forward to but just not as much
Parenthood
Life Unexpected
Modern Family
Cougar Town
Glee
Castle
The Middle
The Good Wife
Two shows that I was considering dropping form my viewing list were Gossip Girl and Desperate Housewives but the casting of Katie Cassidy and Vanessa Williams respectively have breathed a new sense of anticipation for me and I shall keenly watch to see how both shows utilize the actresses.
The Vampire Diaries
This show was one of the best new shows last year. It had the ability to keep me on the edge of my seat every episode and its finale was no different. It was a finale that had me buzzing about it weeks after I saw it. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it from the very first episode as I was rolling my eyes at yet another show about vampires but somehow it continues to be fresh.
Grey's Anatomy
Like The Vampire Diaries, it was one of my favourite finales but for different reasons - it played upon the emotions. We were promised a game changer and it certainly delivered. How the characters deal with the aftermath is the question.
Fringe
This show is in my top 5 shows and like the previous two, was one of my favourite finales. The show just keeps getting better with outstanding performances and storylines. With the alternative universe being shown more, the show looks to keep up its consistency of being something not to miss.
Community
This is one of my favourite comedies and if you haven't seen it already, just watch the episode Modern Warfare and you'll be hooked. It has one of the best ensembles with funny and consistent writing. I shall continue to review the episodes on Series.nu
Other shows that I'm looking forward to but just not as much
Parenthood
Life Unexpected
Modern Family
Cougar Town
Glee
Castle
The Middle
The Good Wife
Two shows that I was considering dropping form my viewing list were Gossip Girl and Desperate Housewives but the casting of Katie Cassidy and Vanessa Williams respectively have breathed a new sense of anticipation for me and I shall keenly watch to see how both shows utilize the actresses.
Sunday, 7 March 2010
Melrose Place - international hit?
I have to say that I received a good laugh after reading Thomas Calabro, who plays Dr. Michael Mancini, recent interview on E!'s website.
It wasn't because he thought Melrose Place was going to return or hint towards more cast from the original making a reappearance. No it was the statement about the show being an international hit. Here's the quote "Here's what's going on with that: We're coming back," Calabro tells us. "Right now, we're airing our first five or six episodes internationally, and I think the show's a big international hit. That's enough to bring a show back."
I didn't even know that it was airing anywhere else but the US and UK. I can't speak for how Melrose Place is doing in other countries but it debuted, in the UK, with 113,000 viewers on Five's digital channel Fiver, with another 7,000 on the catchup service an hour later. At the time, it gave the channel its best ever Wednesday ratings. However the second episode drew 89,000 viewers.
When Archer debuted a couple of weeks later, on a Thursday night, it gave the channel 159,000 viewers for each of its half-hour instalments at 10pm and 10.30pm.
It's definitely not a hit here where a catchup episode of Desperate Housewives, shown an hour after airing can attract more viewers at 11pm then Melrose Place can at 9pm. I can't say I know anybody that watches it and the media certainly don't mention it any more when reporting ratings or anything else.
I have heard many times that US networks don't look into international ratings. Why would they, if they don't count online viewing from people in their own country. When does someone viewing in Boston, UK count the same as someone from Boston, US.
If The CW choose to renew Melrose Place, then it will be based on viewer figures in the US, money and whether or not they find something better to air instead.
It wasn't because he thought Melrose Place was going to return or hint towards more cast from the original making a reappearance. No it was the statement about the show being an international hit. Here's the quote "Here's what's going on with that: We're coming back," Calabro tells us. "Right now, we're airing our first five or six episodes internationally, and I think the show's a big international hit. That's enough to bring a show back."
I didn't even know that it was airing anywhere else but the US and UK. I can't speak for how Melrose Place is doing in other countries but it debuted, in the UK, with 113,000 viewers on Five's digital channel Fiver, with another 7,000 on the catchup service an hour later. At the time, it gave the channel its best ever Wednesday ratings. However the second episode drew 89,000 viewers.
When Archer debuted a couple of weeks later, on a Thursday night, it gave the channel 159,000 viewers for each of its half-hour instalments at 10pm and 10.30pm.
It's definitely not a hit here where a catchup episode of Desperate Housewives, shown an hour after airing can attract more viewers at 11pm then Melrose Place can at 9pm. I can't say I know anybody that watches it and the media certainly don't mention it any more when reporting ratings or anything else.
I have heard many times that US networks don't look into international ratings. Why would they, if they don't count online viewing from people in their own country. When does someone viewing in Boston, UK count the same as someone from Boston, US.
If The CW choose to renew Melrose Place, then it will be based on viewer figures in the US, money and whether or not they find something better to air instead.
Tuesday, 16 February 2010
Life Unexpected vs One Tree Hill? My choice is...
Early today The CW announced new season pick-ups for Supernatural, Gossip Girl, 90210, The Vampire Diaries and America’s Next Top Model. No news yet on Smallville, Melrose Place, Life Unexpected and One Tree Hill.
According Kristin at E!, only one will return between Life Unexpected and One Tree Hill. If it came down to a vote, my choice would be Life Unexpected. I have watched every episode of One Tree Hill but this season I've finally felt like this show has run its course. Story lines are not attention grabbing, things feel repetitive plus seven is a good number to end on. I don't think the departures of Hilarie Burton and Chad Michael Murray played any part, as in my opinion, it was declining when they were on the show.
Most shows that start in high school, suffer through the transition when they move on to college. One Tree Hill jumped past that and at first it worked. I touched on a few points earlier in the season to why I was finding it hard to like this season.
Regardless of whether its renewed, this shall be the last season that I shall watch the residents of Tree Hill.
The reason why my vote is for Life Unexpected is that it's fresh, fun and has intriguing dynamics. It's a show that I'm not complaining about, I'm excited to see a new episode. Even my mother, who isn't in The CW's target demographic, likes this show. Yes, it is early days, but this show seems to be hitting the mark with fans and critics. I hope the viewing figures keep up and this show gets another season, maybe even a full season order.
According Kristin at E!, only one will return between Life Unexpected and One Tree Hill. If it came down to a vote, my choice would be Life Unexpected. I have watched every episode of One Tree Hill but this season I've finally felt like this show has run its course. Story lines are not attention grabbing, things feel repetitive plus seven is a good number to end on. I don't think the departures of Hilarie Burton and Chad Michael Murray played any part, as in my opinion, it was declining when they were on the show.
Most shows that start in high school, suffer through the transition when they move on to college. One Tree Hill jumped past that and at first it worked. I touched on a few points earlier in the season to why I was finding it hard to like this season.
Regardless of whether its renewed, this shall be the last season that I shall watch the residents of Tree Hill.
The reason why my vote is for Life Unexpected is that it's fresh, fun and has intriguing dynamics. It's a show that I'm not complaining about, I'm excited to see a new episode. Even my mother, who isn't in The CW's target demographic, likes this show. Yes, it is early days, but this show seems to be hitting the mark with fans and critics. I hope the viewing figures keep up and this show gets another season, maybe even a full season order.
Tuesday, 2 February 2010
Review: Life Unexpected - Rent Uncollected
With an average of 2.1m over their first three episodes, Life Unexpected has become an instant hit for The CW.
Life Unexpected is fresher than its lead-in, One Tree Hill, though it should be expected with the freshman show versus the seven year veteran but its more than that. It's the way the dynamics are written, where the storyline started. We're getting to know Baze and Cate the same way that Lux is.
Episode 3 delves into the families of Baze and Cate and shows that even though their parents were around, it was no picnic. It shows an excellent contrast into their upbringing versus Lux's.
The dinner scene was both comedic and heartfelt; we got to see why Baze and Cate are the way they are. There were also big strides made between Lux and her parents.
In just three episodes, for me, this show has become the best non supernatural show The CW has aired this season. It will be interesting to see how the relationships develop and how the storylines playout.
Life Unexpected is fresher than its lead-in, One Tree Hill, though it should be expected with the freshman show versus the seven year veteran but its more than that. It's the way the dynamics are written, where the storyline started. We're getting to know Baze and Cate the same way that Lux is.
Episode 3 delves into the families of Baze and Cate and shows that even though their parents were around, it was no picnic. It shows an excellent contrast into their upbringing versus Lux's.
The dinner scene was both comedic and heartfelt; we got to see why Baze and Cate are the way they are. There were also big strides made between Lux and her parents.
In just three episodes, for me, this show has become the best non supernatural show The CW has aired this season. It will be interesting to see how the relationships develop and how the storylines playout.
Review: One Tree Hill - Don't You Forget About Me
Though John Hughes has made two of my favourite films, the tribute that One Tree Hill paid to the late Hughes further solidified my argument that this show has run it's course.
The episode was centred around Haley and Quinn organising an 80s themes party for the arts programme at the high school. Haley thought everyone had forgotten
her birthday, Junk and Fergie were helping Mouth find a woman using an online dating agency. Nathan and Clay had car trouble, miles from home and Jamie conspired to get himself left home alone on purpose. Cheap Trick also made an appearance and played a few of their hits during the episode.
Weird Science, Sixteen Candles and Home Alone were the main films the episode took its story-lines from. At times, they played out certain scenes exactly the same as in the film. I felt like I would be better off watching the films themselves.
This wasn't a standalone episode but it did feel like a repeat of things they had already played out storyline wise; especially with Brooke and Julian. Though the tribute idea was good in theory, I think the execution missed the spot a few times.
The episode was centred around Haley and Quinn organising an 80s themes party for the arts programme at the high school. Haley thought everyone had forgotten
her birthday, Junk and Fergie were helping Mouth find a woman using an online dating agency. Nathan and Clay had car trouble, miles from home and Jamie conspired to get himself left home alone on purpose. Cheap Trick also made an appearance and played a few of their hits during the episode.
Weird Science, Sixteen Candles and Home Alone were the main films the episode took its story-lines from. At times, they played out certain scenes exactly the same as in the film. I felt like I would be better off watching the films themselves.
This wasn't a standalone episode but it did feel like a repeat of things they had already played out storyline wise; especially with Brooke and Julian. Though the tribute idea was good in theory, I think the execution missed the spot a few times.
Friday, 29 January 2010
The Vampire Diaries takes a bite in the UK
The Vampire Diaries premieres in the UK on Tuesday February 2nd. Already a big hit in the US, giving The CW some of its best ratings, ITV2 wasted no time in picking up the new show. The first couple of episodes were released on ITunes in November and to date, 10 episodes have been made available for purchase before the first episode airs in the UK.
Watch the trailer that's been shown in the UK, plus a quick piece that ITN did about the show featuring Nina Dobrev, Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley.
Watch the trailer that's been shown in the UK, plus a quick piece that ITN did about the show featuring Nina Dobrev, Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley.
Monday, 21 December 2009
My Misses List of 2009
There have been a lot of best and worst of 2009 lists floating around and I thought I'll do my own little list. I warn you now, that this isn't your standard best show and worst show list. I've been a little inventive with my awards. I start of with the misses list.
What were you thinking? - NBC cancelling Southland before the new series was aired
I can't believe you're still on the air - Heroes
Hail Mary attempt at more viewers - Claire's lesbian kiss, Heroes
It's not what it says on the packaging - FlashForward. Some billed it as the next Lost, well it's not.
I should really turn it over - The Cleveland Show
Stop and stare moment - Heather Locklear's face. There's something going on that I can't quite figure out.
Biggest waste of an hour - The Beautiful Life
Biggest waste of half an hour - Hank
I like you but I couldn't keep watching your show - Alex O'Loughlin and Alfre Woodard, Three Rivers
Is it you or your character that annoys me - Joseph Fiennes, Mark on FlashForward
Are you trying to kill the show on purpose? - Fox moving Fringe from Tuesday to overloaded Thursday
Do you want people to watch you? - NBC's dwindling primetime scripted shows.
Most obvious outcome in a cliffhanger - Grey's Anatomy with George and Izzie
What were you thinking? - NBC cancelling Southland before the new series was aired
I can't believe you're still on the air - Heroes
Hail Mary attempt at more viewers - Claire's lesbian kiss, Heroes
It's not what it says on the packaging - FlashForward. Some billed it as the next Lost, well it's not.
I should really turn it over - The Cleveland Show
Stop and stare moment - Heather Locklear's face. There's something going on that I can't quite figure out.
Biggest waste of an hour - The Beautiful Life
Biggest waste of half an hour - Hank
I like you but I couldn't keep watching your show - Alex O'Loughlin and Alfre Woodard, Three Rivers
Is it you or your character that annoys me - Joseph Fiennes, Mark on FlashForward
Are you trying to kill the show on purpose? - Fox moving Fringe from Tuesday to overloaded Thursday
Do you want people to watch you? - NBC's dwindling primetime scripted shows.
Most obvious outcome in a cliffhanger - Grey's Anatomy with George and Izzie
Tuesday, 15 December 2009
The CW's New Class
The CW has probably seen some of its best and worst ratings from its freshman shows in the fall season. Out of the three shows, one was cancelled after two episodes and another has been struggling from the start. Where did The Beautiful Life and Melrose Place go wrong and why has The Vampire Diaries flourished for the network?
I’ll start with The Beautiful Life, though I won’t go into it too much or I’ll repeat the same things that I mentioned in a post after the show got cancelled. What was meant to get people excited seemed to rest on three things. The fact it was centred on models, was meant to attract viewers of American’s Next Top Model, the television comeback of Mischa Barton and Ashton Kutcher as co producer.
Unfortunately for this show, that’s where it went wrong. Just because ANTM is popular doesn’t mean people want to watch a drama about models. Too much attention was placed on the fact that Barton was back on TV since her character was killed off in The OC. I don’t think people really cared and it might have actually put some off watching. Then comes to my last point, Ashton Kutcher fans might not want to watch a show that doesn’t actually show him. How much creative control did he actually have? It’s not like he’s a top draw producer/show creator where fans will follow every show they do.
If it wasn't for The Beautiful Life, then Melrose Place would have been the worst performer from the start. MP's ratings haven't been great, stumbling behind 90210; both not being able to surpass 2 million viewers this season. The failures of Melrose Place is sort of similar to why 90210 isn't working. Banking on fans of the original to follow it and forgetting about attracting viewers that weren't fans and keeping them. It was something I touched upon before about TV remakes.
This brings me to The Vampire Diaries, based on a series of books. I'm not too familiar with the success of the books so I can't say that was my reason for watching the show. Three things brought it to my attention; Kevin Williamson, Ian Somerhalder and vampires. Now I shall explain. I'm a Dawson's Creek fan, I've watched Ian on Young American's, Tell Me You Love Me and Lost. I also watched a lot of things involving vampires (Buffy, Angel, Twilight, Moonlight, etc). I think that as characters, vampires are complex and can be a writers dream, if they know what to do with them, other than make them drink blood.
Whether or not it was their complete intention, the timing of TVD was impeccable. With the success of Twilight and books being made into films/TV shows, there was a market to tap into. As we all know, things like this don't guarantee success but it did get 4.8m viewers for the first episode. What keeps people watching is the cast, including Paul Wesley, Nina Dobrev and Ian Somerhalder and the excellent writing. The mid-season finale had it all, with an ending that made you want to count down the days until the next episode, to see the conclusion.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not someone who's only exposure to 90210 and Melrose Place has been in the past year or two. I did watch both shows when they were originally aired, though not in its entirety. There's just a big difference in quality between Melrose Place and The Vampire Diaries and the ratings paint the picture. MP seems to lack a meaty storyline and real direction. Bringing Heather Locklear isn't enough, she needs something to work with. There does seem to be a slight improvement and the last episode aired shows it. With the break and Auggie and Violet due to leave the canvas, they have a chance to make creative changes.
A new show will be joining the party in January. Life Unexpected is due to start in January. I'm quietly excited by this and it has the opportunity of being a hit for the network and I hope it is. The older shows like Supernatural, Smallville and One Tree Hill aren't going to be around forever and The CW needs to find its next batch of hits.
I’ll start with The Beautiful Life, though I won’t go into it too much or I’ll repeat the same things that I mentioned in a post after the show got cancelled. What was meant to get people excited seemed to rest on three things. The fact it was centred on models, was meant to attract viewers of American’s Next Top Model, the television comeback of Mischa Barton and Ashton Kutcher as co producer.
Unfortunately for this show, that’s where it went wrong. Just because ANTM is popular doesn’t mean people want to watch a drama about models. Too much attention was placed on the fact that Barton was back on TV since her character was killed off in The OC. I don’t think people really cared and it might have actually put some off watching. Then comes to my last point, Ashton Kutcher fans might not want to watch a show that doesn’t actually show him. How much creative control did he actually have? It’s not like he’s a top draw producer/show creator where fans will follow every show they do.
If it wasn't for The Beautiful Life, then Melrose Place would have been the worst performer from the start. MP's ratings haven't been great, stumbling behind 90210; both not being able to surpass 2 million viewers this season. The failures of Melrose Place is sort of similar to why 90210 isn't working. Banking on fans of the original to follow it and forgetting about attracting viewers that weren't fans and keeping them. It was something I touched upon before about TV remakes.
This brings me to The Vampire Diaries, based on a series of books. I'm not too familiar with the success of the books so I can't say that was my reason for watching the show. Three things brought it to my attention; Kevin Williamson, Ian Somerhalder and vampires. Now I shall explain. I'm a Dawson's Creek fan, I've watched Ian on Young American's, Tell Me You Love Me and Lost. I also watched a lot of things involving vampires (Buffy, Angel, Twilight, Moonlight, etc). I think that as characters, vampires are complex and can be a writers dream, if they know what to do with them, other than make them drink blood.
Whether or not it was their complete intention, the timing of TVD was impeccable. With the success of Twilight and books being made into films/TV shows, there was a market to tap into. As we all know, things like this don't guarantee success but it did get 4.8m viewers for the first episode. What keeps people watching is the cast, including Paul Wesley, Nina Dobrev and Ian Somerhalder and the excellent writing. The mid-season finale had it all, with an ending that made you want to count down the days until the next episode, to see the conclusion.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not someone who's only exposure to 90210 and Melrose Place has been in the past year or two. I did watch both shows when they were originally aired, though not in its entirety. There's just a big difference in quality between Melrose Place and The Vampire Diaries and the ratings paint the picture. MP seems to lack a meaty storyline and real direction. Bringing Heather Locklear isn't enough, she needs something to work with. There does seem to be a slight improvement and the last episode aired shows it. With the break and Auggie and Violet due to leave the canvas, they have a chance to make creative changes.
A new show will be joining the party in January. Life Unexpected is due to start in January. I'm quietly excited by this and it has the opportunity of being a hit for the network and I hope it is. The older shows like Supernatural, Smallville and One Tree Hill aren't going to be around forever and The CW needs to find its next batch of hits.
Saturday, 26 September 2009
My Cancellation Predictions
"It lacks cohesion." A quote from the season opener of CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. This is something that can be said of many shows on TV and is often thrown at new shows in particular.
I've watched most of the new shows that have been aired so far. I've taken a look at the ratings for their debut and in some cases, their second outing. I'm going to loosely predict what shows I think will be cancelled as well as predict some more established shows. The first one on my list was going to be The Beautiful Life but the plug was already pulled before I got the chance to write this.
Lets get one thing straight, though I'm predicting the following, it doesn't mean I necessarily dislike the shows that I've picked, as there are a couple that I like but still think they will be canned.
Ugly Betty - Now this hasn't even been shown yet and that is one of the points of why I feel it will be cancelled. This week ABC announced that Betty's season opener air date has changed. It was moved to Friday which is the least watched week day (I'm looking at it in terms of the highest viewed show per day). CBS so far has that night in the bag with Medium, Ghost Whisperer and Numbers. The viewers were already dwindling before this move.
Hank and The Middle - They're just not as good as ABC's other two new comedies Cougar Town and Modern Family. That and the ratings are reason enough.
Trauma/Mercy - I can't really choose between the two but I think one of them will go. My personal opinion is Mercy but Trauma had the worst debut. Not sure why NBC went for two new shows about the emergency services.
Cold Case - I like this show but there were rumours that this was up for the chop with Without A Trace and it was an either or decision. With CBS cutting costs in both primetime and daytime, I see this as one to go.
Dollhouse - Another show that I like but not enough people are watching this. It also doesn't help when SyFy's Stargate Universe and encores of shows already shown in the week get better rating numbers.
Smallville - I haven't watched this since the first season but like Ugly Betty, it has been moved to Friday. I don't see why it couldn't have been moved into The Beautiful Life's vacated spot instead of a Melrose Place rerun. These are the reasons I have this down plus the length of time it's had on air.
I've had to put the following in a separate section as if they were on any other network, I think these shows would be canned but as NBC's figures as a whole haven't been as good as CBS or ABC this week (in some cases Fox either) then it's hard to tell what they would actually get rid of.
Heroes - I really don't think I should have to explain this one as those that no longer watch it know why. It should have been cancelled last season but they persisted and gave it another go. The characters have become annoying, they've killed off some interesting and popular characters, it's lacked direction and decent story-telling and people are abandoning it fast, including many of my family and friends.
Parks and Recreation - I really like this show but it's the worst performer out of NBC's Thursday comedies.
The following ones I'm debating and could go either way depending on how they do further down the line. I won't go into my reasons, in some cases, you just have to watch them to know.
Eastwick
The Forgotten
Accidently On Purpose
Brothers
Till Death
Melrose Place
Castle
The last one I am mentioning is just what I think should end.
One Tree Hill - I think it should have ended last season as I think it was time and ended on a good note, which I mentioned in a previous post. Now it feels like they are just dragging things out. If you have to have Dan Scott married to Rachel Gatina and another Nathan may or may have cheated storyline, then you need to end it.
Obviously Lost isn't included in any of the lists, as we all know that it will be airing it's last season. I think it was good that they announced a couple of seasons ago the timeline for the show.
We shall see what shows are still on when I do this again, after the mid season shows have aired.
I've watched most of the new shows that have been aired so far. I've taken a look at the ratings for their debut and in some cases, their second outing. I'm going to loosely predict what shows I think will be cancelled as well as predict some more established shows. The first one on my list was going to be The Beautiful Life but the plug was already pulled before I got the chance to write this.
Lets get one thing straight, though I'm predicting the following, it doesn't mean I necessarily dislike the shows that I've picked, as there are a couple that I like but still think they will be canned.
Ugly Betty - Now this hasn't even been shown yet and that is one of the points of why I feel it will be cancelled. This week ABC announced that Betty's season opener air date has changed. It was moved to Friday which is the least watched week day (I'm looking at it in terms of the highest viewed show per day). CBS so far has that night in the bag with Medium, Ghost Whisperer and Numbers. The viewers were already dwindling before this move.
Hank and The Middle - They're just not as good as ABC's other two new comedies Cougar Town and Modern Family. That and the ratings are reason enough.
Trauma/Mercy - I can't really choose between the two but I think one of them will go. My personal opinion is Mercy but Trauma had the worst debut. Not sure why NBC went for two new shows about the emergency services.
Cold Case - I like this show but there were rumours that this was up for the chop with Without A Trace and it was an either or decision. With CBS cutting costs in both primetime and daytime, I see this as one to go.
Dollhouse - Another show that I like but not enough people are watching this. It also doesn't help when SyFy's Stargate Universe and encores of shows already shown in the week get better rating numbers.
Smallville - I haven't watched this since the first season but like Ugly Betty, it has been moved to Friday. I don't see why it couldn't have been moved into The Beautiful Life's vacated spot instead of a Melrose Place rerun. These are the reasons I have this down plus the length of time it's had on air.
I've had to put the following in a separate section as if they were on any other network, I think these shows would be canned but as NBC's figures as a whole haven't been as good as CBS or ABC this week (in some cases Fox either) then it's hard to tell what they would actually get rid of.
Heroes - I really don't think I should have to explain this one as those that no longer watch it know why. It should have been cancelled last season but they persisted and gave it another go. The characters have become annoying, they've killed off some interesting and popular characters, it's lacked direction and decent story-telling and people are abandoning it fast, including many of my family and friends.
Parks and Recreation - I really like this show but it's the worst performer out of NBC's Thursday comedies.
The following ones I'm debating and could go either way depending on how they do further down the line. I won't go into my reasons, in some cases, you just have to watch them to know.
Eastwick
The Forgotten
Accidently On Purpose
Brothers
Till Death
Melrose Place
Castle
The last one I am mentioning is just what I think should end.
One Tree Hill - I think it should have ended last season as I think it was time and ended on a good note, which I mentioned in a previous post. Now it feels like they are just dragging things out. If you have to have Dan Scott married to Rachel Gatina and another Nathan may or may have cheated storyline, then you need to end it.
Obviously Lost isn't included in any of the lists, as we all know that it will be airing it's last season. I think it was good that they announced a couple of seasons ago the timeline for the show.
We shall see what shows are still on when I do this again, after the mid season shows have aired.
Not A Beautiful Life In The End
Before September has even ended and all the new fall shows were even given their first outing, we have already seen the first casualty. According to reports, The CW has cancelled The Beautiful Life after only two episodes.
The first episode managed to pull in around 1.4 million but the second episode struggled with 1 million. More than half of the viewers from it's lead in show, America's Next Top Model, decided to tune out of The CW. As somebody wrote, people seemed to be more interested in Tyra Banks trying to make a model than a show about models. To put it more into context, more people follow it's co producer, Ashton Kutcher, on Twitter than the combined ratings of both episodes.
I struggled to even write anything coherent about the first episode of The Beautiful Life so I was eager to see if any kind of reaction would come from episode two. With a build up of returning shows aired this week, I had put TBL aside to watch at the weekend. Before I had the chance to watch it, my mother told me that my prediction was right. After the ratings were released for Wednesday's shows I thought that it would be the first show to receive the chop.
Yes the ratings were poor but I think what made The CW act so quickly was probably the success of The Vampire Diaries. The network had already announced this week that they have ordered new scripts of Diaries, Melrose Place and given One Tree Hill a 22 episode order.
Melrose Place has also had less than flattering rating figures but only time will tell if this or another show will be next on the chopping block.
The first episode managed to pull in around 1.4 million but the second episode struggled with 1 million. More than half of the viewers from it's lead in show, America's Next Top Model, decided to tune out of The CW. As somebody wrote, people seemed to be more interested in Tyra Banks trying to make a model than a show about models. To put it more into context, more people follow it's co producer, Ashton Kutcher, on Twitter than the combined ratings of both episodes.
I struggled to even write anything coherent about the first episode of The Beautiful Life so I was eager to see if any kind of reaction would come from episode two. With a build up of returning shows aired this week, I had put TBL aside to watch at the weekend. Before I had the chance to watch it, my mother told me that my prediction was right. After the ratings were released for Wednesday's shows I thought that it would be the first show to receive the chop.
Yes the ratings were poor but I think what made The CW act so quickly was probably the success of The Vampire Diaries. The network had already announced this week that they have ordered new scripts of Diaries, Melrose Place and given One Tree Hill a 22 episode order.
Melrose Place has also had less than flattering rating figures but only time will tell if this or another show will be next on the chopping block.
Tuesday, 22 September 2009
Version 2.0
The popular thing amongst the TV networks seems to be bringing back things to life. Whether it be an old TV show or a film, networks are looking to the past for their future shows.
With CBS resurrecting Hawaii Five O and a number of shows either in the pipeline or already showing, it seems that networks are running out of fresh ideas. Why the case for all the reboots?
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Dawn Ostroff was quoted as saying "When you do a remake you have built-in fan base and that's a huge advantage for us." But as we know in some cases, a fan base for an old show doesn't guarantee success now. All you have to do is look at the ratings for Melrose Place and 90210. Granted that they are both on The CW but even so, they aren't the most popular shows. Another case, Knightrider didn't last too long on the air. I never watched it myself as I couldn't see myself watching a pale imitation of a show I used to watch as a kid.
You can compare the reboots to a band reforming or giving an old relationship another go. Sometimes the chemistry just isn't there, things are forced and you're going through the motions. With the reboots, they seem to have more to prove than a new show would because everyone is keen to see where things go and what old characters come back. Sometimes when you bring old characters back, it can take things away from the new ones. Then there are some cases where you just don't care about the new characters. Where do you find the balance?
The latest news this week was that William H Macy was going to be in the US version of the hit UK show Shameless. These kinds of reboots at times fail to do anything. Kath and Kim didn't work out last year. To me the US version just wasn't as funny as the Australian version. I won't even mention Coupling's demise. There is always an exception to the rule and in these types of reboots; it would be The Office, which is currently in its sixth series. It isn't as easy to find a TV gem these days.
With a couple of the new shows that are to air, I've never had the opportunity to watch their predecessor. I didn't even realise that V would fall into this category. Even though there might be many reboots, some are just a completely new show to me.
With CBS resurrecting Hawaii Five O and a number of shows either in the pipeline or already showing, it seems that networks are running out of fresh ideas. Why the case for all the reboots?
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Dawn Ostroff was quoted as saying "When you do a remake you have built-in fan base and that's a huge advantage for us." But as we know in some cases, a fan base for an old show doesn't guarantee success now. All you have to do is look at the ratings for Melrose Place and 90210. Granted that they are both on The CW but even so, they aren't the most popular shows. Another case, Knightrider didn't last too long on the air. I never watched it myself as I couldn't see myself watching a pale imitation of a show I used to watch as a kid.
You can compare the reboots to a band reforming or giving an old relationship another go. Sometimes the chemistry just isn't there, things are forced and you're going through the motions. With the reboots, they seem to have more to prove than a new show would because everyone is keen to see where things go and what old characters come back. Sometimes when you bring old characters back, it can take things away from the new ones. Then there are some cases where you just don't care about the new characters. Where do you find the balance?
The latest news this week was that William H Macy was going to be in the US version of the hit UK show Shameless. These kinds of reboots at times fail to do anything. Kath and Kim didn't work out last year. To me the US version just wasn't as funny as the Australian version. I won't even mention Coupling's demise. There is always an exception to the rule and in these types of reboots; it would be The Office, which is currently in its sixth series. It isn't as easy to find a TV gem these days.
With a couple of the new shows that are to air, I've never had the opportunity to watch their predecessor. I didn't even realise that V would fall into this category. Even though there might be many reboots, some are just a completely new show to me.
Wednesday, 16 September 2009
Is Life Really That Beautiful?
So Mischa Barton is back on television in The Beautiful Life (not saying it's a good or bad thing). After her character was killed off in Fox's The OC, she has been more known for her life off camera than what work she's been doing. I can't really name anything other than her appearance in St Trinian's and a movie that had something to do with the pop duo Tatu.
The Beautiful Life is co-produced by Ashton Kutcher and also features Elle Macphearson and Corbin Bleu (though I didn't recognise him). It all centres around the world of modelling and the different sides of it. Every model has their own story and some have secrets.
I wasn't sure if I wanted to watch a drama about the model life and I'm still not sure. I can't say that I went away with with this overwhelming need to watch the next episode but I also can't say that I'm not completely turning myself away from it. The episode didn't draw in even half of what The Vampire Diaries got.
I really don't have many words for this as it really didn't render a reaction from me. I actually struggled to write this because I didn't have anything to say. If it was really good then I would heaping praise about everything and if it was bad then I would go into one but I have nothing. Maybe episode two might give me a response.
The Beautiful Life is co-produced by Ashton Kutcher and also features Elle Macphearson and Corbin Bleu (though I didn't recognise him). It all centres around the world of modelling and the different sides of it. Every model has their own story and some have secrets.
I wasn't sure if I wanted to watch a drama about the model life and I'm still not sure. I can't say that I went away with with this overwhelming need to watch the next episode but I also can't say that I'm not completely turning myself away from it. The episode didn't draw in even half of what The Vampire Diaries got.
I really don't have many words for this as it really didn't render a reaction from me. I actually struggled to write this because I didn't have anything to say. If it was really good then I would heaping praise about everything and if it was bad then I would go into one but I have nothing. Maybe episode two might give me a response.
A Tree Hill Too Far?
To say I was looking forward to the seventh series would be a lie. I had many questions when I heard that it was coming back for another season but the main one was, where do they go from here.
I wasn’t thinking the best as, in my mind, this would be the moment that one of my top five shows would be bumped off the list.
The main reason for this is I think the season six ender should have been the series ender. Everything seemed to come together in that episode, barring the limbo that Dan Scott was left in. It felt right to me to end it on that note plus sometimes if you continue something for too long then they tend to lose what good about them.
Had a moment of deja vu with Millie's first scene, as it was reminiscent of Brooke's scene in season five when Millie was her assistant, this time Millie is the one with an assistant. At first it made me chuckle but then I asked how far has it moved now.
I know that there was another time jump between the series so where was everyone going to be now. I’m not going into the whole episode but I’m touching upon one thing. Something was missing and that was two of the five main characters over the past six seasons, Lucas and Peyton.
Let's start with no mention of Lucas or Peyton in the previously section. Was it because they wanted a clean slate, money (not sure if they would have to pay the actors if they showed them) or something else?
First mention of Peyton was that she was gone (which we knew) but there was no elaboration. Next mention was Lucas and a birthday note for Jamie, still no explanation. Third mention was regarding Peyton and her famous 'people always leave' line. Mention four was in a conversation between Jamie and Nathan regarding Lucas and basketball. Mention five was a snide comment regarding Peyton choosing motherhood over her record label. Now I do have to give them their dues for not completely wiping the slate of these characters but there could have been something else.
The same question I came with before the start is the same one I left with. Where did Lucas, Peyton and Sawyer go?
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a fan of the couple (Leyton or Pucas however people want to call them) but they were part of what made me like the show. Their dynamics with the characters I actually like. Lucas and Nathan’s rivalry turned into sibling understanding, Haley and Lucas’s friendship that showed that there are male and female friendships that are purely platonic and the longstanding friendship between Brooke and Peyton, which went through their share of ups and downs.
Now we are left with the Haley, Nathan and Brooke dynamic. There is a Haley and Brooke dynamic that works but we’ve never really been treated to a Brooke and Nathan friendship (there was a brief moment they shared before Q’s funeral and I’m not counting when they hooked up in high school). With the new characters coming in, I feel like I have to get to know the established characters over again because the new characters will be bringing a different side of them. The main example is the introduction of Haley’s sister Quinn, which is a completely different dynamic to what Haley, has with the other sister we’ve seen, Taylor.
With that, the newbies have their own story to tell which in time shall be revealed but I leave with this thought, how on earth did Dan Scott get on television?
I wasn’t thinking the best as, in my mind, this would be the moment that one of my top five shows would be bumped off the list.
The main reason for this is I think the season six ender should have been the series ender. Everything seemed to come together in that episode, barring the limbo that Dan Scott was left in. It felt right to me to end it on that note plus sometimes if you continue something for too long then they tend to lose what good about them.
Had a moment of deja vu with Millie's first scene, as it was reminiscent of Brooke's scene in season five when Millie was her assistant, this time Millie is the one with an assistant. At first it made me chuckle but then I asked how far has it moved now.
I know that there was another time jump between the series so where was everyone going to be now. I’m not going into the whole episode but I’m touching upon one thing. Something was missing and that was two of the five main characters over the past six seasons, Lucas and Peyton.
Let's start with no mention of Lucas or Peyton in the previously section. Was it because they wanted a clean slate, money (not sure if they would have to pay the actors if they showed them) or something else?
First mention of Peyton was that she was gone (which we knew) but there was no elaboration. Next mention was Lucas and a birthday note for Jamie, still no explanation. Third mention was regarding Peyton and her famous 'people always leave' line. Mention four was in a conversation between Jamie and Nathan regarding Lucas and basketball. Mention five was a snide comment regarding Peyton choosing motherhood over her record label. Now I do have to give them their dues for not completely wiping the slate of these characters but there could have been something else.
The same question I came with before the start is the same one I left with. Where did Lucas, Peyton and Sawyer go?
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a fan of the couple (Leyton or Pucas however people want to call them) but they were part of what made me like the show. Their dynamics with the characters I actually like. Lucas and Nathan’s rivalry turned into sibling understanding, Haley and Lucas’s friendship that showed that there are male and female friendships that are purely platonic and the longstanding friendship between Brooke and Peyton, which went through their share of ups and downs.
Now we are left with the Haley, Nathan and Brooke dynamic. There is a Haley and Brooke dynamic that works but we’ve never really been treated to a Brooke and Nathan friendship (there was a brief moment they shared before Q’s funeral and I’m not counting when they hooked up in high school). With the new characters coming in, I feel like I have to get to know the established characters over again because the new characters will be bringing a different side of them. The main example is the introduction of Haley’s sister Quinn, which is a completely different dynamic to what Haley, has with the other sister we’ve seen, Taylor.
With that, the newbies have their own story to tell which in time shall be revealed but I leave with this thought, how on earth did Dan Scott get on television?
Saturday, 12 September 2009
Taking a Huge Bite
The Vampire Diaries' first episode drew in the biggest audience for a debut, for the CW, with 4.8m viewers. With an opening that let's you know that this isn't your ordinary teen show, it sets itself apart from the off.
Many have called it the Twilight of TV but for me that's an unfair comparison. There were vampire stories before Twilight and there will be more after. Let's not forget that Buffy The Vampire Slayer was popular with the teen market. With Twilight being the hot commodity at the moment, it was obvious that comparisons would be made.
Both are based on books but unlike Twilight, I've not read any of the books so I come with no pre conceptions of what to expect.
Having seen Nina Dobrev on Degrassi: The Next Generation, for the past couple of years, I wasn't expecting much as she played one of my least favourite characters. I was pleasantly surprised by her performance and the episode. Other than the interactions between Stefan and Elena, I was also intrigued by the dynamics between their respective siblings. The contrast between them makes for some good and interesting scenes and I hope this will play well throughout the whole season.
Many have called it the Twilight of TV but for me that's an unfair comparison. There were vampire stories before Twilight and there will be more after. Let's not forget that Buffy The Vampire Slayer was popular with the teen market. With Twilight being the hot commodity at the moment, it was obvious that comparisons would be made.
Both are based on books but unlike Twilight, I've not read any of the books so I come with no pre conceptions of what to expect.
Having seen Nina Dobrev on Degrassi: The Next Generation, for the past couple of years, I wasn't expecting much as she played one of my least favourite characters. I was pleasantly surprised by her performance and the episode. Other than the interactions between Stefan and Elena, I was also intrigued by the dynamics between their respective siblings. The contrast between them makes for some good and interesting scenes and I hope this will play well throughout the whole season.
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