Alright, my bad…I still have one more blog to go for this class so here it is.
I decided to go back to my first topic for this blog, Reality TV. So, how real is this new and popular form of television?
According to this article, there are more than 70 different reality shows that have been produced. And just about every channel on television airs at least one reality show. These shows were originally produced to portray real people in their real lives, however, when put in front of a camera these real people begin to act real strange!
“Take the case of the hated apprentice contender Omarosa for example. According to a Time magazine article, she may have been the victim of reality TV editors. Some reality TV shows are edited to be dramatic and some quotes may actually be manufactured. Clashes and ugly feuds between the reality stars may be constructed and some parts of the shows may also be completely edited and cut out so they don't make the final show that people see on TV. Some critics actually charge that reality TV is not so real and that these shows may be far more manipulative than we think.
According to a poll by CNN, 57% of 1016 adults believe that Reality TV shows provide a distorted picture of events while another 23% say the shows are "totally phoney". The amount of pressure for TV ratings pushes people to make the show more interesting.”
And the worst part about these reality TV shows is that once these people make complete asses of themselves, they try to take it back by saying that they unfairly represented. However the networks of these different shows are smart, participants are given warnings and they have to sign extensive and detailed legal waivers that protect the network from any liability if someone gets hurt on the show. It’s like the network knows that there is going to be trouble! I hope this blog has given you a little insight into the wild and ever-growing world of reality TV(and some other media aspects).
Monday, May 11, 2009
Friday, May 8, 2009
Sexual Imagery in Advertising
For my final blog for this Comm 112 class, I have decided to write on the topic of my final project: Sexual Imagery in Advertising.
As a class we have watched online videos entitled Killing Us Softly and Dream Worlds. I found these particular videos extremely fitting for my project topic. They talk about how sex is such an overpowering part of advertising and everyday life, today more than ever. The following links provide segments from each of the movies.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDMo5cIJN3A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FpyGwP3yzE&feature=PlayList&p=0FB656A37B7E6DC5&index=0
It is really amazing to me what these videos had to say about advertising. I always knew that sex played a role in all sorts of the media, but I never realized it played this much of a role. In Killing Us Softly it says that advertising had a $120 billion revenue, as of 1999. Now that it is ten years later I can only imagine what that number must be at now.
Killing us softly also stated that the average American is exposed to about 3000 advertisements every day. Again, that is an amazing statistic to me, however now that I think on it it’s probably close accurate for me. It’s crazy to think that advertisements of all shapes, sizes, and forms come in contact with our lives so much every day!
The movie Dream Worlds, is more about the music video industry, but it also ties right along in with the idea that women are suppose to be something that they are not. Both videos showed how these forms of media are making women seem more like objects than actual beings. The camera will focus on a woman’s breasts, butt or skinny body, in order to objectify that that is what makes her a woman.
These “perfected” images that have been placed in both men’s and women’s head’s are almost unachievable. And the worst part is that women of all sizes, shapes, and ages are giving into these false images, and trying to become the beautiful women they see in the advertisements or videos. I admit that I too, have dieted to “look better” many times, but some women starve themselves to become the pretty faces and perfected bodies they see in the magazines.
So the question here is, when will women be seen as beautiful just as they are, without dieting or surgeries? Will that day ever come, or has society tattooed these images into every human beings mind?
As a class we have watched online videos entitled Killing Us Softly and Dream Worlds. I found these particular videos extremely fitting for my project topic. They talk about how sex is such an overpowering part of advertising and everyday life, today more than ever. The following links provide segments from each of the movies.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDMo5cIJN3A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FpyGwP3yzE&feature=PlayList&p=0FB656A37B7E6DC5&index=0
It is really amazing to me what these videos had to say about advertising. I always knew that sex played a role in all sorts of the media, but I never realized it played this much of a role. In Killing Us Softly it says that advertising had a $120 billion revenue, as of 1999. Now that it is ten years later I can only imagine what that number must be at now.
Killing us softly also stated that the average American is exposed to about 3000 advertisements every day. Again, that is an amazing statistic to me, however now that I think on it it’s probably close accurate for me. It’s crazy to think that advertisements of all shapes, sizes, and forms come in contact with our lives so much every day!
The movie Dream Worlds, is more about the music video industry, but it also ties right along in with the idea that women are suppose to be something that they are not. Both videos showed how these forms of media are making women seem more like objects than actual beings. The camera will focus on a woman’s breasts, butt or skinny body, in order to objectify that that is what makes her a woman.
These “perfected” images that have been placed in both men’s and women’s head’s are almost unachievable. And the worst part is that women of all sizes, shapes, and ages are giving into these false images, and trying to become the beautiful women they see in the advertisements or videos. I admit that I too, have dieted to “look better” many times, but some women starve themselves to become the pretty faces and perfected bodies they see in the magazines.
So the question here is, when will women be seen as beautiful just as they are, without dieting or surgeries? Will that day ever come, or has society tattooed these images into every human beings mind?
Monday, April 27, 2009
Tough Love
I have recently gotten into a show called Tough Love on VH1. This show is about 8 girls who have a lot of trouble in the dating world, and have now been enrolled in a sort of boot camp in order to fix their dating faux pas. This show is created and hosted by a mother son team JoAnn and Steven Ward, Master Matchmakers, who are naturals at pairing their clientele with their ideal mates. The company's foundation rests on her passion for uniting desirable singles in rewarding, long-term relationships. JoAnn takes time to learn about her clients' backgrounds, personalities and relationship goals, thus eliminating many of the obstacles they face when searching for a partner on their own.
Steven guarantees that if they follow his rules then by the end of the eight weeks they will be ready for love. But there's a method to Steven's madness. Steven's methodology consists of his rules of dating. Steven's rules are bold, insightful, and often hilarious. But most of all they offer an unapologetic glance into the male mind. The core of the series is Steven revealing the truth about what men really think when it comes to dating and women. “Steven Ward is America's maestro of love. His brutally honest approach to matchmaking is what has made him and his mother Joann Ward one of the most successful matchmaking teams in the country. Steven has the balls to tell women not what they want to hear, but what they need to hear to find love. The women in this boot camp are desperate and single, but can't figure out why. The cast is composed of classic archetypes of the single woman: the 'too much too soon' romantic, the 'gold digger', the 'fixing the wrong guys' victim, the late 30's "Lone Ranger'. To call the women out on their issues, Steven labels each woman with a moniker that correlates to her main problem. From "Miss Picky," the woman who is too caught up in a list of impossible expectations, to "Miss Wedding-Obsessed," the girl that tells guys on their first date she's looking to be married within a year.”
Personally, I think this is a great reality show, because it is actually dealing with real life problems. It’s not another dating show, but rather real people dealing with real problems. I personally, know a lot of women with these sorts of problem when dating, and think that this show can maybe help show other women just what might be going on in their own relationships.
Steven guarantees that if they follow his rules then by the end of the eight weeks they will be ready for love. But there's a method to Steven's madness. Steven's methodology consists of his rules of dating. Steven's rules are bold, insightful, and often hilarious. But most of all they offer an unapologetic glance into the male mind. The core of the series is Steven revealing the truth about what men really think when it comes to dating and women. “Steven Ward is America's maestro of love. His brutally honest approach to matchmaking is what has made him and his mother Joann Ward one of the most successful matchmaking teams in the country. Steven has the balls to tell women not what they want to hear, but what they need to hear to find love. The women in this boot camp are desperate and single, but can't figure out why. The cast is composed of classic archetypes of the single woman: the 'too much too soon' romantic, the 'gold digger', the 'fixing the wrong guys' victim, the late 30's "Lone Ranger'. To call the women out on their issues, Steven labels each woman with a moniker that correlates to her main problem. From "Miss Picky," the woman who is too caught up in a list of impossible expectations, to "Miss Wedding-Obsessed," the girl that tells guys on their first date she's looking to be married within a year.”
Personally, I think this is a great reality show, because it is actually dealing with real life problems. It’s not another dating show, but rather real people dealing with real problems. I personally, know a lot of women with these sorts of problem when dating, and think that this show can maybe help show other women just what might be going on in their own relationships.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Top 50 Children's Movies of All Time
A while back, in class we discussed what we thought to be our top 10 kid’s movies. And since these shows play such a huge role in our lives when we are young, I thought that it would be interesting to take a look at just what the top 50 list of all time holds.
1.
It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
2.
Anand (1971)
3.
WALL·E (2008)
4.
Vuk (1981)
5.
Safety Last! (1923)
6.
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
7.
Ivan Vasilevich menyaet professiyu (1973)
8.
The Cameraman (1928)
9.
The Gold Rush (1925)
10.
The Kid (1921)
11.
Ratatouille (2007)
12.
Finding Nemo (2003)
13.
I Remember Mama (1948)
14.
The Lion King (1994)
15.
Toy Story (1995)
16.
The Incredibles (2004)
17.
Coraline (2009)
18.
Chak De! India (2007)
19.
Our Hospitality (1923)
20.
Tonari no Totoro (1988)
21.
Kavkazskaya plennitsa, ili Novye priklyucheniya Shurika (1966)
22.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
23.
Seven Chances (1925)
24.
Tenkû no shiro Rapyuta (1986)
25.
The Kid Brother (1927)
26.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
27.
A Christmas Story (1983)
28.
Toy Story 2 (1999)
29.
Monsters, Inc. (2001)
30.
Gake no ue no Ponyo (2008)
31.
Beauty and the Beast (1991)
32.
Shrek (2001)
33.
Brilliantovaya ruka (1968)
34.
Finding Neverland (2004)
35.
Karpuz kabugundan gemiler yapmak (2004)
36.
Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928)
37.
How Green Was My Valley (1941)
38.
The Circus (1928)
39.
Wallace & Gromit in The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)
40.
E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
41.
My Fair Lady (1964)
42.
The Iron Giant (1999)
43.
Majo no takkyûbin (1989)
44.
Fantasia (1940)
45.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
46.
Tri orísky pro Popelku (1973)
47.
The Thief of Bagdad (1940)
48.
The Sound of Music (1965)
49.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
50.
The Thief of Bagdad (1924)
Though there are many of these movies that I have not had the pleasure of seeing or enjoying(some I think were more popular outside of America), I found that many of these movies were found in my top 10 kid’s films., Such as The Sound of Music, E.T., Shrek, Beauty and the Beast, A Christmas Story, The Wizard of Oz, and many many more! These movies have found their way into millions of children’s hearts, and left them laughing and learning with the character’s that were portrayed. It’s so interesting to see the old compared with the new, to see how movies have changed over the years, and to take a look at what I watched vs. my parents vs. my grandparents! I can’t even begin to imagine how this list is going to change in years to come, what will be added and what will be replaced. It so amazing to look back at all these famous titles, some old some new, but all a part of many people’s lives!
1.
It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
2.
Anand (1971)
3.
WALL·E (2008)
4.
Vuk (1981)
5.
Safety Last! (1923)
6.
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
7.
Ivan Vasilevich menyaet professiyu (1973)
8.
The Cameraman (1928)
9.
The Gold Rush (1925)
10.
The Kid (1921)
11.
Ratatouille (2007)
12.
Finding Nemo (2003)
13.
I Remember Mama (1948)
14.
The Lion King (1994)
15.
Toy Story (1995)
16.
The Incredibles (2004)
17.
Coraline (2009)
18.
Chak De! India (2007)
19.
Our Hospitality (1923)
20.
Tonari no Totoro (1988)
21.
Kavkazskaya plennitsa, ili Novye priklyucheniya Shurika (1966)
22.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
23.
Seven Chances (1925)
24.
Tenkû no shiro Rapyuta (1986)
25.
The Kid Brother (1927)
26.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
27.
A Christmas Story (1983)
28.
Toy Story 2 (1999)
29.
Monsters, Inc. (2001)
30.
Gake no ue no Ponyo (2008)
31.
Beauty and the Beast (1991)
32.
Shrek (2001)
33.
Brilliantovaya ruka (1968)
34.
Finding Neverland (2004)
35.
Karpuz kabugundan gemiler yapmak (2004)
36.
Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928)
37.
How Green Was My Valley (1941)
38.
The Circus (1928)
39.
Wallace & Gromit in The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)
40.
E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
41.
My Fair Lady (1964)
42.
The Iron Giant (1999)
43.
Majo no takkyûbin (1989)
44.
Fantasia (1940)
45.
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
46.
Tri orísky pro Popelku (1973)
47.
The Thief of Bagdad (1940)
48.
The Sound of Music (1965)
49.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
50.
The Thief of Bagdad (1924)
Though there are many of these movies that I have not had the pleasure of seeing or enjoying(some I think were more popular outside of America), I found that many of these movies were found in my top 10 kid’s films., Such as The Sound of Music, E.T., Shrek, Beauty and the Beast, A Christmas Story, The Wizard of Oz, and many many more! These movies have found their way into millions of children’s hearts, and left them laughing and learning with the character’s that were portrayed. It’s so interesting to see the old compared with the new, to see how movies have changed over the years, and to take a look at what I watched vs. my parents vs. my grandparents! I can’t even begin to imagine how this list is going to change in years to come, what will be added and what will be replaced. It so amazing to look back at all these famous titles, some old some new, but all a part of many people’s lives!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Top 10 Best Actresses
We all know that a lot of our favorite movies would be nothing without their very important leading ladies, so for this week’s blog I decided to find the Top Ten Best actresses of all time.
In the 10th spot we have Laura Linney, best known for her roles in Mystic River, You Can Count on Me, and The Truman Show, Laura has been nominated and/or won over 30 Acting awards from 1998-2007.
In 9th place we have the one and only, Cameron Diaz. She has appeared in Shrek, The Mask, There’s Something about Mary, and many more. She has also been nominated and/or taken over 30 Acting Awards from 1997-2004.
8th place brings in Sigourney Weaver, who has graced our movie screens since the 70’s. Weaver is best known for her roles in Alien, Working Girl, and Imaginary Heroes.
In the 7th position, Julia Roberts graces us with her presence, and let’s face it no surprise here for this “pretty woman.” Julia is best remembered for her roles in Pretty Woman, Erin Brochovich, My Best Friends wedding and countless other films. Erin Brochovich alone earned her a whopping 15 awards, which I find amazing for a single actress.
In 6th place we have the famous Katherine Hepburn, who has been gracing the movie scene since the 30’s. She is found in movies such as The Philadelphia Story, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, and The African Queen. She has won 10 Best Actress awards in her movie lifetime, and has left and unbelievable impression on us all.
The 5th place goes to Nicole Kidman, a flawless actress that has starred in movies such as Happy Feet, Moulin Rouge, The Hours, and many many more. Her movie count exceeds 42 films and countless more awards for most of them. She definitely deserves a spot here on the Top 10.
In 4th place we have Julianne Moore, known best for her roles in Children of Men, Far from Heaven, and Boogie Nights. She too, has won many prestigious acting awards in her lifetime.
Kate Winslet, takes the 3rd spot of the Top 10, known for her famous roles in Titanic, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and Sense and Sensability. Many of her movie roles have earned her numerous awards throughout the years.
Taking 2nd place is Cate Blanchett, Known best for her roles in Lord of the Rings, Notes on a Scandal, and the Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Many of her roles have earned her Best Actress Awards, which may be why this leading lady has scored a top spot on the Top 10.
And at the Very top of the list we have, Meryl Streep, who has graced the movie screen in many films such as Manhattan, Adaptation, The Hours, The River Wild, and more recently Doubt. And let’s face it, theres no “doubt” about it, that this leading lady has well paid her due to earn the top spot of our Top 10!
Well there they are, the Top 10 Leading ladies of all time. Our movie’s would definitely not be the same without them!
In the 10th spot we have Laura Linney, best known for her roles in Mystic River, You Can Count on Me, and The Truman Show, Laura has been nominated and/or won over 30 Acting awards from 1998-2007.
In 9th place we have the one and only, Cameron Diaz. She has appeared in Shrek, The Mask, There’s Something about Mary, and many more. She has also been nominated and/or taken over 30 Acting Awards from 1997-2004.
8th place brings in Sigourney Weaver, who has graced our movie screens since the 70’s. Weaver is best known for her roles in Alien, Working Girl, and Imaginary Heroes.
In the 7th position, Julia Roberts graces us with her presence, and let’s face it no surprise here for this “pretty woman.” Julia is best remembered for her roles in Pretty Woman, Erin Brochovich, My Best Friends wedding and countless other films. Erin Brochovich alone earned her a whopping 15 awards, which I find amazing for a single actress.
In 6th place we have the famous Katherine Hepburn, who has been gracing the movie scene since the 30’s. She is found in movies such as The Philadelphia Story, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, and The African Queen. She has won 10 Best Actress awards in her movie lifetime, and has left and unbelievable impression on us all.
The 5th place goes to Nicole Kidman, a flawless actress that has starred in movies such as Happy Feet, Moulin Rouge, The Hours, and many many more. Her movie count exceeds 42 films and countless more awards for most of them. She definitely deserves a spot here on the Top 10.
In 4th place we have Julianne Moore, known best for her roles in Children of Men, Far from Heaven, and Boogie Nights. She too, has won many prestigious acting awards in her lifetime.
Kate Winslet, takes the 3rd spot of the Top 10, known for her famous roles in Titanic, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and Sense and Sensability. Many of her movie roles have earned her numerous awards throughout the years.
Taking 2nd place is Cate Blanchett, Known best for her roles in Lord of the Rings, Notes on a Scandal, and the Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Many of her roles have earned her Best Actress Awards, which may be why this leading lady has scored a top spot on the Top 10.
And at the Very top of the list we have, Meryl Streep, who has graced the movie screen in many films such as Manhattan, Adaptation, The Hours, The River Wild, and more recently Doubt. And let’s face it, theres no “doubt” about it, that this leading lady has well paid her due to earn the top spot of our Top 10!
Well there they are, the Top 10 Leading ladies of all time. Our movie’s would definitely not be the same without them!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Past Idol Winners
For this week’s blog I decided to follow up my precious one of the Top Five, which ended with American Idol at the top. I decided to find out about all the previous winners of American Idol.
In the first season the winner was Kelly Clarkson. She walked her way to glory and became America’s first American Idol as she won 58% votes, on 4th September 2002. Millions of people sat glued to their television sets waiting nervously to find out who would win the title of America’s best singer, Justin Guarini or Kelly Clarkson. In my opinion Kelly is perhaps one of the most successful Idol winners, and ironically the very first one.
Christopher Ruben Studdard became the next winner of the series. The records, till June 2007, say that Studdard is the fifth-best selling American Idol performer with more than 2.4 million albums sold in the U.S.
The third season of American Idol in 2004 gave us, Fantasia Monique Barrino. She released her debut single I Believe which was at number-one position on the Billboard Hot 100. And she also won the 2007 Theater World Award owing to her marvelous stage debut performance.
The most popular and most successful American Idol winner Carrie Underwood was crowned as the 4th season’s winner of American Idol in May 2005. After winning the American Idol title, Carrie has become a multi-platinum selling recording artist. Her debut album Some Hearts was certified 6x platinum and is known as the fastest selling debut country album in Nielsen SoundScan history. Underwood is also the first American Idol winner to win all three major music awards in the same awards show season , including four American Music Awards, thirteen Billboard Music Awards, and two Grammy Awards, including the award for the Best New Artist.
Taylor Reuben Hicks, on May 24, 2006, won American Idol’s 5th season title. Hicks, started as an underdog on the show however, he ended up winning the American Idol title. Thereafter he was signed by Arista Records.
The 6th American Idol winner, Jordin Brianna Sparks, is the youngest Idol winner at age 17. In August 2007, Jordin has signed up with 19 Recordings/Jive Records /Zomba Label group which made her the first Idol winner to join the label group.
And the latest winner of American Idol, is Texas native David Cook. He won the American Idol contest on May 21, 2008. After a week after his victory, Cook broke several Billboard chart records and had as many as eleven songs debut on the Hot 100 list.
Well, there they are, all the previous winners of American Idol.
In the first season the winner was Kelly Clarkson. She walked her way to glory and became America’s first American Idol as she won 58% votes, on 4th September 2002. Millions of people sat glued to their television sets waiting nervously to find out who would win the title of America’s best singer, Justin Guarini or Kelly Clarkson. In my opinion Kelly is perhaps one of the most successful Idol winners, and ironically the very first one.
Christopher Ruben Studdard became the next winner of the series. The records, till June 2007, say that Studdard is the fifth-best selling American Idol performer with more than 2.4 million albums sold in the U.S.
The third season of American Idol in 2004 gave us, Fantasia Monique Barrino. She released her debut single I Believe which was at number-one position on the Billboard Hot 100. And she also won the 2007 Theater World Award owing to her marvelous stage debut performance.
The most popular and most successful American Idol winner Carrie Underwood was crowned as the 4th season’s winner of American Idol in May 2005. After winning the American Idol title, Carrie has become a multi-platinum selling recording artist. Her debut album Some Hearts was certified 6x platinum and is known as the fastest selling debut country album in Nielsen SoundScan history. Underwood is also the first American Idol winner to win all three major music awards in the same awards show season , including four American Music Awards, thirteen Billboard Music Awards, and two Grammy Awards, including the award for the Best New Artist.
Taylor Reuben Hicks, on May 24, 2006, won American Idol’s 5th season title. Hicks, started as an underdog on the show however, he ended up winning the American Idol title. Thereafter he was signed by Arista Records.
The 6th American Idol winner, Jordin Brianna Sparks, is the youngest Idol winner at age 17. In August 2007, Jordin has signed up with 19 Recordings/Jive Records /Zomba Label group which made her the first Idol winner to join the label group.
And the latest winner of American Idol, is Texas native David Cook. He won the American Idol contest on May 21, 2008. After a week after his victory, Cook broke several Billboard chart records and had as many as eleven songs debut on the Hot 100 list.
Well, there they are, all the previous winners of American Idol.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Top 5 Most Popular Reality TV
Since reality TV seems as if it is not going anywhere for some time yet, I Felt the need to see what the most popular TV show is. Well here are the top 5 on tv.com’s list of the 100 most popular TV shows.
In the fifth spot of the most popular is The Girls Next Door. This show airs on E, featuring Hugh Hefner and his three most recent girlfriends: Holly, Bridget, and Kendra. Unfortunately more recently, these relationships have fallen apart for Hef, Holly was caught cheating on him with Chris Angel. Kendra also has found a new life with Eagles receiver Hank Baskett III, and they are now engaged to be married shortly. And as for Bridget, she now has her own TV series on the Travel Channel, Bridget’s Sexiest Beaches.
The forth spot on the list brings us Survivor, which again is in its 18th season on CBS.
In spot number three is America’s Next Top Model, brought to you by Tyra Banks herself. Currently this series is on its’ 12th cycle, airing on the CW Wednesday’s at 7.
In second place we have Hell’s Kitchen. This FOX show features world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay in his fifth course of the sizzling unscripted series HELL'S KITCHEN. The show follows wannabe chefs as they slice and dice their way through each episode, vying for Ramsay's attention in hopes of winning a life-changing culinary prize.
And finally at the top of the list we find none other than, American Idol, which is truly what this show has become for many Americans, an idol. Currently in its 8th season on Fox, this No. 1 hit series empowers contestants and viewers to share their voice in deciding who will be America's next singing superstar.
Well, there they are the top five most popular reality TV shows on tv.com’s top 100 list.
In the fifth spot of the most popular is The Girls Next Door. This show airs on E, featuring Hugh Hefner and his three most recent girlfriends: Holly, Bridget, and Kendra. Unfortunately more recently, these relationships have fallen apart for Hef, Holly was caught cheating on him with Chris Angel. Kendra also has found a new life with Eagles receiver Hank Baskett III, and they are now engaged to be married shortly. And as for Bridget, she now has her own TV series on the Travel Channel, Bridget’s Sexiest Beaches.
The forth spot on the list brings us Survivor, which again is in its 18th season on CBS.
In spot number three is America’s Next Top Model, brought to you by Tyra Banks herself. Currently this series is on its’ 12th cycle, airing on the CW Wednesday’s at 7.
In second place we have Hell’s Kitchen. This FOX show features world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay in his fifth course of the sizzling unscripted series HELL'S KITCHEN. The show follows wannabe chefs as they slice and dice their way through each episode, vying for Ramsay's attention in hopes of winning a life-changing culinary prize.
And finally at the top of the list we find none other than, American Idol, which is truly what this show has become for many Americans, an idol. Currently in its 8th season on Fox, this No. 1 hit series empowers contestants and viewers to share their voice in deciding who will be America's next singing superstar.
Well, there they are the top five most popular reality TV shows on tv.com’s top 100 list.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
I Love Money
I Love Money is a newer reality series on VH1, in which former contestants from previous VH1 series compete against each other for a chance at $250,000.
The first season of this show premiered last summer, and featured Flavor of Love’s Hoops taking home the money. She competed against Whiteboy in the season finale, in a race across their resort in Mexico. She became a little far behind in the beginning, however she was able to complete an amazing comeback at the final race challenge.
Now there is a new season of this hit reality series, after all who didn’t get enough of these contestants when they were on the dating shows? Now they have another chance at finding both love and money. Even though this wasn’t intended for a dating show, it’s obvious that when you stick multiple people of different sexes there will be some intermingling. But, that just makes the show all that more exciting and dramatic. Players start competing over competitors of the same sex, thus ruining friendships and alliances.
The newest season of I love money the contestants consist of Becky (Buckwild) from flavor of Love, It (Kwame) from I Love New York, Ice (Amanda) Flavor of Love, Frank (The Entertainer) I Love New York and I Love Money season 1, Saaphyri from Flavor of Love, 20 Pack (Nico) I love New York, Tamara from the Rock of Love season 2, Tweed(Kevin) I love New York, Prancer (Mercedes) Flavor of Love, Buddah from I Love New York, Leilene from Flavor of Love, Myammee (Angela) Flavor of Love, Bonez (Kevin) I Love New York, Cali (Christina) Real Chance of Love, Heat from I love New York, Angelique (Frenchie) Rock of Love, Milf (Amho) Real Chance of Love, Onyx from I love New York, Tailor Made (George) I Love New York.
This group of contestants brings together lots of clashing cultures and previous feuds from the dating shows. It is sure to be a very interesting season of I Love Money.
The first season of this show premiered last summer, and featured Flavor of Love’s Hoops taking home the money. She competed against Whiteboy in the season finale, in a race across their resort in Mexico. She became a little far behind in the beginning, however she was able to complete an amazing comeback at the final race challenge.
Now there is a new season of this hit reality series, after all who didn’t get enough of these contestants when they were on the dating shows? Now they have another chance at finding both love and money. Even though this wasn’t intended for a dating show, it’s obvious that when you stick multiple people of different sexes there will be some intermingling. But, that just makes the show all that more exciting and dramatic. Players start competing over competitors of the same sex, thus ruining friendships and alliances.
The newest season of I love money the contestants consist of Becky (Buckwild) from flavor of Love, It (Kwame) from I Love New York, Ice (Amanda) Flavor of Love, Frank (The Entertainer) I Love New York and I Love Money season 1, Saaphyri from Flavor of Love, 20 Pack (Nico) I love New York, Tamara from the Rock of Love season 2, Tweed(Kevin) I love New York, Prancer (Mercedes) Flavor of Love, Buddah from I Love New York, Leilene from Flavor of Love, Myammee (Angela) Flavor of Love, Bonez (Kevin) I Love New York, Cali (Christina) Real Chance of Love, Heat from I love New York, Angelique (Frenchie) Rock of Love, Milf (Amho) Real Chance of Love, Onyx from I love New York, Tailor Made (George) I Love New York.
This group of contestants brings together lots of clashing cultures and previous feuds from the dating shows. It is sure to be a very interesting season of I Love Money.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Life after Rock of Love
We all can find out what happened on the show, but what about after the cameras and the show rapped up. My question for this week is what happened to some of the girl from Rock of Love with Brett Michaels after the show was completed.
Chances are that we’ve all heard of Brandi C. from the first season of Rock of Love, but what happened to her after the show rapped? Well, after the reunion show concluded for the first season, Brandi C. was invited to participate in I Love Money. This is another reality show on VH1, in which contestants from previous dating series compete against each other for a grand prize of $250,000 in Mexico. Brandi C. was also invited to participate in Rock of Love Charm School with Sharon Osbourne. In this series the girls from Rock of Love are enrolled into a Charm School to improve their etiquette and social being. She is now doing some minor acting, interviews and trying to get a spread in Playboy.
Next there is Megan from the second season of Rock of Love. She, just like Brandi C., competed on Rock of Love Charm School and I love Money. Megan is best remembered for her conniving actions, in order to get anything and everything she wants. But more recently, it seems that she may have pushed the line with her headmaster of Charm School a little too far. She is suing Osbourne for battery, negligence and infliction of emotional distress and claims Osbourne got out of control during a taping, where she grabbed the contestant by the hair and scratched her. Apparently, Osbourne attacked Megan after she told her that she was only famous because she managed a "brain-dead rock star."
The last rocking lady that I am going to report on is Daisy, the runner-up from season 2. After the brutal reunion show, daisy signed on to do her own reality show in order to find love. It’s called Daisy of Love, Daisy is on a quest for true love and this time she is giving her fans the chance to vie for her love and vote to help determine which contestant makes the cut. This show is set to Premiere sometime in the spring of 2009.
Well, that’s just a few of the memorable contestants from Rock of Love with Brett Michaels and what they’re like has been like after the show.
Chances are that we’ve all heard of Brandi C. from the first season of Rock of Love, but what happened to her after the show rapped? Well, after the reunion show concluded for the first season, Brandi C. was invited to participate in I Love Money. This is another reality show on VH1, in which contestants from previous dating series compete against each other for a grand prize of $250,000 in Mexico. Brandi C. was also invited to participate in Rock of Love Charm School with Sharon Osbourne. In this series the girls from Rock of Love are enrolled into a Charm School to improve their etiquette and social being. She is now doing some minor acting, interviews and trying to get a spread in Playboy.
Next there is Megan from the second season of Rock of Love. She, just like Brandi C., competed on Rock of Love Charm School and I love Money. Megan is best remembered for her conniving actions, in order to get anything and everything she wants. But more recently, it seems that she may have pushed the line with her headmaster of Charm School a little too far. She is suing Osbourne for battery, negligence and infliction of emotional distress and claims Osbourne got out of control during a taping, where she grabbed the contestant by the hair and scratched her. Apparently, Osbourne attacked Megan after she told her that she was only famous because she managed a "brain-dead rock star."
The last rocking lady that I am going to report on is Daisy, the runner-up from season 2. After the brutal reunion show, daisy signed on to do her own reality show in order to find love. It’s called Daisy of Love, Daisy is on a quest for true love and this time she is giving her fans the chance to vie for her love and vote to help determine which contestant makes the cut. This show is set to Premiere sometime in the spring of 2009.
Well, that’s just a few of the memorable contestants from Rock of Love with Brett Michaels and what they’re like has been like after the show.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
The Tool Academy
Today I am going to talk about my new and favorite reality TV show, the Tool Academy. This show airs on VH1 on Sunday nights at 9. This series is about nine men that lie, cheat, and treat their women like garbage, they are tools. Their girlfriends enrolled them in the academy because they are at the last straw.
This tool academy was created to help the most arrogant, dishonest, thoughtless and unfaithful boyfriends in order to transform them into potential husbands. With the help of the host, Jordan Murphy and couple’s therapist Trina Dolenz, these tools will undergo numerous challenges and hours of therapy in order to win back their untrusting girlfriends.
Because most of the men were under the impression that they don’t need any help, they are told that they are there for a contest called “Mr. Awesome”- The search for Americas ultimate Alpha Male. It didn’t take long for them to realize the true reason they were there, and for the next 30 days they are to be enrolled at the academy. In this academy they are to learn lessons in proper behavior focusing on things such as Trust, Romance, Family Values and Communication. If they are able to learn and complete these lessons, they will stay enrolled at the academy. However if they don’t complete the tasks correctly, they will be expelled from the academy, and their girlfriend will have the option to stay with them or go home alone.
In the end one tool will remain, and will win not only his girlfriend back, but a $100,000 cash prize, as well as the actual title of Mr. Awesome.
Now on to the tools…
First we have Demitri, he is a night club owner from Gilbert, AZ. He’s an obnoxious flirt and considers it part of his job to talk to as many ladies as possible. Demitri is dating Jill, she is an aspiring lawyer who moved across the country to live with her boyfriend, but she isn’t enjoying the results.
Next, we have Clarence (A.K.A. Celebrity) a wild party animal with little regard for the many women in his life. Celebrity rules the clubs but often forgets about his girlfriend of 10 years Cameron. He has one true love in his life, himself. As I mentioned, celebrity is dating Cameron, she's tired of party monster Celebrity and wants Clarence, the man she fell in love with, back in her life. Her anger and frustration with Celebrity are pushing her to the breaking point.
Our next tool is Shawn from Boulder, CO. Shawn is the very definition of tool. Self centered and self absorbed, this guy lives for the attention of as many women as possible. He first comes to the show with his “current” girlfriend Jamie, however, we soon learn of his girlfriend of 5 years Aida. Needless to say Jamie leaves the show and Aida takes her place by Shawn’s side.
Josh is our next tool, the tiniest tool but that doesn't stop him from thinking he's the Man. A wanna be pro bowler and south Jersey club goer, Josh puts his own spin on the tool image. He lives with his girlfriend of three years Ashley in her parents' house. Josh wants a stable future but doesn't want to do the work to get there. Ashley is tired of Josh's parting, bowling, and disregard for their relationship. She's enrolled Josh into the Tool Academy as a last ditch attempt to make their relationship work.
Next we have Ryan (A.K.A. Matsuflex) a kind and caring boyfriend, but as Matsuflex he becomes the ultimate tool on a rampage. This tatted up tool fills the room with energy everywhere he goes. He feeds off the attention of women and is proud of his self-centered approach to life. Ryan’s girlfriend is Jenna, she is worried about a future with Ryan because his Matsuflex image gets in the way of real communication. She is over his constant flirting and need to be the center of attention all the time. Jenna brought Ryan to the Tool Academy because she can't live in a Matsuflex world any longer.
Now we have Tommy, the nice guy tool who can't seem to get his life started. He's madly in love with his girlfriend Krista but has no idea what he wants to be when he grows up. Even though they've only been dating for six months, Tommy lives with Krista and her two kids. He is taking advantage of her child support to pay the bills.
MEGA is the player alter ego of Josh J. MEGA is the life of the party and the lover of all ladies. He is known for bringing home a different girl home every night of the week, and maybe two on Sundays. This tool thinks he's so in demand with the ladies that he can be open about seeing girls on the side while having a regular girlfriend. He talks a big game but has a hard time living up to the hype. Margo is his #1 lady, but she's tired of sharing him with others. After being best friends for eight years, MEGA and Margo decided to take their relationship one step further and become romantic. She believes that as MEGA, he's a terrible boyfriend, but as Josh he might be the one for her.
Muscle bound power tool Rob is usually stone faced and ready for a brawl. He's proud of his many judo championships and his gym forged body. Rob does have a softer side, though he holds back his emotions on most occasions. Karine is Rob the power tool's girlfriend and feels like he doesn't trust her. They are in a long distance relationship and she visits Rob every chance she gets. Karine brought Rob to the Tool Academy because she's sick of him not trusting her around other men.
This tool treats his girlfriend Ashley L more like a buddy than girlfriend. His constant flirting with other women makes him feel like a big man and his constant threats to leave his girlfriend make him feel even more powerful. Joey loves to hit the gym and sees this as needed time away from this girlfriend. Ashley moved across the country to be with her tool boyfriend Joey. She's had it with his flirtatious ways and his constant threats to leave for her for other women. The non-stop threats from Joey and the lack of affection are taking their toll on Ashley. She's suffering with no self worth and can't figure out what she can do to get Joey to love her.
Well, that’s it for this week, there’s new episode of the Tool Academy on tonight, hope you’ve been intrigued to watch.
This tool academy was created to help the most arrogant, dishonest, thoughtless and unfaithful boyfriends in order to transform them into potential husbands. With the help of the host, Jordan Murphy and couple’s therapist Trina Dolenz, these tools will undergo numerous challenges and hours of therapy in order to win back their untrusting girlfriends.
Because most of the men were under the impression that they don’t need any help, they are told that they are there for a contest called “Mr. Awesome”- The search for Americas ultimate Alpha Male. It didn’t take long for them to realize the true reason they were there, and for the next 30 days they are to be enrolled at the academy. In this academy they are to learn lessons in proper behavior focusing on things such as Trust, Romance, Family Values and Communication. If they are able to learn and complete these lessons, they will stay enrolled at the academy. However if they don’t complete the tasks correctly, they will be expelled from the academy, and their girlfriend will have the option to stay with them or go home alone.
In the end one tool will remain, and will win not only his girlfriend back, but a $100,000 cash prize, as well as the actual title of Mr. Awesome.
Now on to the tools…
First we have Demitri, he is a night club owner from Gilbert, AZ. He’s an obnoxious flirt and considers it part of his job to talk to as many ladies as possible. Demitri is dating Jill, she is an aspiring lawyer who moved across the country to live with her boyfriend, but she isn’t enjoying the results.
Next, we have Clarence (A.K.A. Celebrity) a wild party animal with little regard for the many women in his life. Celebrity rules the clubs but often forgets about his girlfriend of 10 years Cameron. He has one true love in his life, himself. As I mentioned, celebrity is dating Cameron, she's tired of party monster Celebrity and wants Clarence, the man she fell in love with, back in her life. Her anger and frustration with Celebrity are pushing her to the breaking point.
Our next tool is Shawn from Boulder, CO. Shawn is the very definition of tool. Self centered and self absorbed, this guy lives for the attention of as many women as possible. He first comes to the show with his “current” girlfriend Jamie, however, we soon learn of his girlfriend of 5 years Aida. Needless to say Jamie leaves the show and Aida takes her place by Shawn’s side.
Josh is our next tool, the tiniest tool but that doesn't stop him from thinking he's the Man. A wanna be pro bowler and south Jersey club goer, Josh puts his own spin on the tool image. He lives with his girlfriend of three years Ashley in her parents' house. Josh wants a stable future but doesn't want to do the work to get there. Ashley is tired of Josh's parting, bowling, and disregard for their relationship. She's enrolled Josh into the Tool Academy as a last ditch attempt to make their relationship work.
Next we have Ryan (A.K.A. Matsuflex) a kind and caring boyfriend, but as Matsuflex he becomes the ultimate tool on a rampage. This tatted up tool fills the room with energy everywhere he goes. He feeds off the attention of women and is proud of his self-centered approach to life. Ryan’s girlfriend is Jenna, she is worried about a future with Ryan because his Matsuflex image gets in the way of real communication. She is over his constant flirting and need to be the center of attention all the time. Jenna brought Ryan to the Tool Academy because she can't live in a Matsuflex world any longer.
Now we have Tommy, the nice guy tool who can't seem to get his life started. He's madly in love with his girlfriend Krista but has no idea what he wants to be when he grows up. Even though they've only been dating for six months, Tommy lives with Krista and her two kids. He is taking advantage of her child support to pay the bills.
MEGA is the player alter ego of Josh J. MEGA is the life of the party and the lover of all ladies. He is known for bringing home a different girl home every night of the week, and maybe two on Sundays. This tool thinks he's so in demand with the ladies that he can be open about seeing girls on the side while having a regular girlfriend. He talks a big game but has a hard time living up to the hype. Margo is his #1 lady, but she's tired of sharing him with others. After being best friends for eight years, MEGA and Margo decided to take their relationship one step further and become romantic. She believes that as MEGA, he's a terrible boyfriend, but as Josh he might be the one for her.
Muscle bound power tool Rob is usually stone faced and ready for a brawl. He's proud of his many judo championships and his gym forged body. Rob does have a softer side, though he holds back his emotions on most occasions. Karine is Rob the power tool's girlfriend and feels like he doesn't trust her. They are in a long distance relationship and she visits Rob every chance she gets. Karine brought Rob to the Tool Academy because she's sick of him not trusting her around other men.
This tool treats his girlfriend Ashley L more like a buddy than girlfriend. His constant flirting with other women makes him feel like a big man and his constant threats to leave his girlfriend make him feel even more powerful. Joey loves to hit the gym and sees this as needed time away from this girlfriend. Ashley moved across the country to be with her tool boyfriend Joey. She's had it with his flirtatious ways and his constant threats to leave for her for other women. The non-stop threats from Joey and the lack of affection are taking their toll on Ashley. She's suffering with no self worth and can't figure out what she can do to get Joey to love her.
Well, that’s it for this week, there’s new episode of the Tool Academy on tonight, hope you’ve been intrigued to watch.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Top Ten Worst Reality TV
Since last week I reviewed the Top 10 Best Reality TV shows, this week I thought I would check out the Top 10 Worst Reality TV shows.
At number 10, we have My Fair Brady which aired on VH1. In this show Christopher Knight (Peter Brady, of the Brady Bunch) marries Americas Next Top Model Adrianne Curry. It had a total of 3 seasons on VH1 and I personally can’t say that I ever got very interested in this show, so it is no surprise to me that it is found in the Top 10 Worst of Reality TV.
Number 9 brings The Player. This show aired on the UPN network, it featured Miami modelnamed Dawn and her two girlfriends for eight weeks challenging 13 self-described "players" against each other in a quest to be the last one standing. Personally, I never even heard of this one, that could explain why it only aired 8 episodes…
In the 8th spot of our top ten we have, Married by America. This show aired in 2003 on FOX, in which viewers at home were able to vote on the last viewer-made couple standing. In the end, however, no one ended up getting married. Viewer found this show to be degrading in the general idea of married, which doesn’t make it a surprise that is found in our Top 10.
At number 7 on our list we have The Real Housewives of Orange County. This show, which airs on Bravo, features different lives of rich wives living in Orange County. This show’s first season was in 2006 and has since had 4 successful seasons to follow.
In the 6th spot of the top ten we have Mr. Personality brought to us by FOX. Hosted by the infamous Monica Lewinski, it showed a woman seeking love based on personality, not looks. The entire time the bachelors faces were covered, so the decision would be made solely on personality. Due to the fact that it only aired for 5 episodes, I have a feeling that is why we find it in our top 10.
At number 5 we have Who Wants to Marry a Multi-millionaire? This was another FOX reality bust, in which 50 women competed for the opportunity to marry multi-millionaire Rick Rockwell.
In the 4th spot of the top 10 we have MTV’s My Super Sweet Sixteen. This show began in 2005 and is still airing today. This show portrays the lavish lives of rich teens planning their sweet sixteen parties. Often I find myself getting annoyed with this show, as these sweet six-teener’s will stop at nothing to get their way
In the 3rd spot we have another UPN series bust, Britney and Kevin :Chaotic. Well, the name says it all; it shows us all the chaotic life of Britney Spears and Kevin Federline. Needless to say, it had limited air time and now reruns on MTV and VH1.
In 2nd place we have FOX’s Temptation Island. In this show several couples agreed to live with a group of singles of the opposite sex, in order to test the strength of their relationships.
In the top spot of the Top Ten Worst Reality TV Shows, we have the Flavor of Love. A mock of the Bachelor, this show features 3 seasons of Flavor Flav dating numerous girls trying to find love.
Though I have not seen several of these shows, I have to admit that I agree that most of them belong in this Top Ten!
At number 10, we have My Fair Brady which aired on VH1. In this show Christopher Knight (Peter Brady, of the Brady Bunch) marries Americas Next Top Model Adrianne Curry. It had a total of 3 seasons on VH1 and I personally can’t say that I ever got very interested in this show, so it is no surprise to me that it is found in the Top 10 Worst of Reality TV.
Number 9 brings The Player. This show aired on the UPN network, it featured Miami modelnamed Dawn and her two girlfriends for eight weeks challenging 13 self-described "players" against each other in a quest to be the last one standing. Personally, I never even heard of this one, that could explain why it only aired 8 episodes…
In the 8th spot of our top ten we have, Married by America. This show aired in 2003 on FOX, in which viewers at home were able to vote on the last viewer-made couple standing. In the end, however, no one ended up getting married. Viewer found this show to be degrading in the general idea of married, which doesn’t make it a surprise that is found in our Top 10.
At number 7 on our list we have The Real Housewives of Orange County. This show, which airs on Bravo, features different lives of rich wives living in Orange County. This show’s first season was in 2006 and has since had 4 successful seasons to follow.
In the 6th spot of the top ten we have Mr. Personality brought to us by FOX. Hosted by the infamous Monica Lewinski, it showed a woman seeking love based on personality, not looks. The entire time the bachelors faces were covered, so the decision would be made solely on personality. Due to the fact that it only aired for 5 episodes, I have a feeling that is why we find it in our top 10.
At number 5 we have Who Wants to Marry a Multi-millionaire? This was another FOX reality bust, in which 50 women competed for the opportunity to marry multi-millionaire Rick Rockwell.
In the 4th spot of the top 10 we have MTV’s My Super Sweet Sixteen. This show began in 2005 and is still airing today. This show portrays the lavish lives of rich teens planning their sweet sixteen parties. Often I find myself getting annoyed with this show, as these sweet six-teener’s will stop at nothing to get their way
In the 3rd spot we have another UPN series bust, Britney and Kevin :Chaotic. Well, the name says it all; it shows us all the chaotic life of Britney Spears and Kevin Federline. Needless to say, it had limited air time and now reruns on MTV and VH1.
In 2nd place we have FOX’s Temptation Island. In this show several couples agreed to live with a group of singles of the opposite sex, in order to test the strength of their relationships.
In the top spot of the Top Ten Worst Reality TV Shows, we have the Flavor of Love. A mock of the Bachelor, this show features 3 seasons of Flavor Flav dating numerous girls trying to find love.
Though I have not seen several of these shows, I have to admit that I agree that most of them belong in this Top Ten!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Top 10 Reality TV Shows
As a pretty avid reality TV watcher, I thought that it would be interesting to find out what people thought to be the best Reality TV Shows.
At number 10, we have America’s Next Top Model. I talked a little about this particular show in one of my blogs a few weeks ago. We from ND, have had two winners for the area, so I can personally say that I am a fan of this particular show.
Number 9 brings Dancing with the Stars up to the plate. This show airs on ABC and is currently on its 8th season. Although I have not followed this show religiously, I stilled enjoyed watching it whenever I happened to come across it while flipping through the channels. The show pairs celebrities with professional ballroom dancers who each week compete by performing dances, which are scored by a panel of judges.
In the 8th spot of our top ten we have, Hell’s Kitchen. This is one show that I can honestly say that I never really got interested in. However, it is currently on its 5th season. In each episode teams are responsible for preparing food to Chef Gordon Ramsay's very demanding taste and appearance requirements as well as within a limited time frame. In each team or individual challenge; the winning chef or player may get a reward, while the losing team or players are required to perform some kitchen duty in preparation for the dinner service. During dinner service,
At number 7 on our list we have the Ultimate Fighter. This is another show that I can say that I have never seen. This show is currently on its 8th season on SPIKE TV. On this show, professional MMA fighters that need to make a big name for themselves are situated in a house outside of Las Vegas, Navada and compete against each other for the title of The Ultimate Fighter. The winnings are a six-figure, multi-fight contract with the UFC.
In the 6th spot of the top ten we have the universally known American Idol. I have also talked about this show in a previous blog.
At number 5 we have MTV’s Real World.
In the 4th spot of the top 10 we have the show Big Brother, which airs on CBS. In this show a group of people live together in the Big Brother House, where they are isolated from the outside world but continuously watched by television cameras. Each season lasts for about three months, and there are usually fewer than 16 participants competing for the cash prize at the end.
In the 3rd spot, So You Think You Can Dance. This show is somewhat of a sister to the hit show American Idol, however instead of singing the judges are looking for America’s Best Dancers.
In 2nd place we have Survivor
In the top spot of the top ten Reality TV Shows, we have the Amazing Race.
I can say that I have seen a number of these reality shows, and can agree with their top spots ranking. But, I can’t help but wonder what’s to change in the future for these rankings, as reality TV appears to be on an upward spiral.
At number 10, we have America’s Next Top Model. I talked a little about this particular show in one of my blogs a few weeks ago. We from ND, have had two winners for the area, so I can personally say that I am a fan of this particular show.
Number 9 brings Dancing with the Stars up to the plate. This show airs on ABC and is currently on its 8th season. Although I have not followed this show religiously, I stilled enjoyed watching it whenever I happened to come across it while flipping through the channels. The show pairs celebrities with professional ballroom dancers who each week compete by performing dances, which are scored by a panel of judges.
In the 8th spot of our top ten we have, Hell’s Kitchen. This is one show that I can honestly say that I never really got interested in. However, it is currently on its 5th season. In each episode teams are responsible for preparing food to Chef Gordon Ramsay's very demanding taste and appearance requirements as well as within a limited time frame. In each team or individual challenge; the winning chef or player may get a reward, while the losing team or players are required to perform some kitchen duty in preparation for the dinner service. During dinner service,
At number 7 on our list we have the Ultimate Fighter. This is another show that I can say that I have never seen. This show is currently on its 8th season on SPIKE TV. On this show, professional MMA fighters that need to make a big name for themselves are situated in a house outside of Las Vegas, Navada and compete against each other for the title of The Ultimate Fighter. The winnings are a six-figure, multi-fight contract with the UFC.
In the 6th spot of the top ten we have the universally known American Idol. I have also talked about this show in a previous blog.
At number 5 we have MTV’s Real World.
In the 4th spot of the top 10 we have the show Big Brother, which airs on CBS. In this show a group of people live together in the Big Brother House, where they are isolated from the outside world but continuously watched by television cameras. Each season lasts for about three months, and there are usually fewer than 16 participants competing for the cash prize at the end.
In the 3rd spot, So You Think You Can Dance. This show is somewhat of a sister to the hit show American Idol, however instead of singing the judges are looking for America’s Best Dancers.
In 2nd place we have Survivor
In the top spot of the top ten Reality TV Shows, we have the Amazing Race.
I can say that I have seen a number of these reality shows, and can agree with their top spots ranking. But, I can’t help but wonder what’s to change in the future for these rankings, as reality TV appears to be on an upward spiral.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
History of Reality TV
The history of reality TV…Where did this ridiculously fan crazed phenomena begin? I thought for this week’s blog it would be interesting to find out where the reality based TV all began.
According to “Behind the Scenes of Reality TV,” it is believed that it all started with a show called “An American Family.” This show first aired on PBS on Thursday January 11, 1973. This was the moment that changed television history forever. It was a 12-hour documentary series on PBS which reveled seven months in the day-to-day lives of the Loud family of Santa Barbara, California. An audience of 10 million viewers watched this real life drama that challenged conventional views of middle class American family life, its depiction of marital tensions that led to divorce, an elder son's gay lifestyle and the changing values of American families, it not only opened the door for other reality TV. This series proved to be a groundbreaking turning point that forever changed American television programming and led the way to more complex family portraits. TV Guide magazine acknowledged An American Family as the first reality television series and named it among "The 50 Greatest Shows of All Time."
Although An American Family was considered the first reality TV show, the real craze was supposedly started by the hit TV show COPS. COPS first aired on Fox in March 1989 and has been filmed in over 140 cities across the US. This hit series followed arrests of over 2,000 suspects. This docu-reality series has become one of the longest- running primetime entertainment program ever, as it is currently celebrating it 20th year. After the success of this hit reality show. It was clear that reality TV was becoming unleashed.
Soon after COPS, came MTV’s Real World in 1992. Then in 2002, CBS’s reality hit Survivor hit the air.
According to “Behind the Scenes of Reality TV,” it is believed that it all started with a show called “An American Family.” This show first aired on PBS on Thursday January 11, 1973. This was the moment that changed television history forever. It was a 12-hour documentary series on PBS which reveled seven months in the day-to-day lives of the Loud family of Santa Barbara, California. An audience of 10 million viewers watched this real life drama that challenged conventional views of middle class American family life, its depiction of marital tensions that led to divorce, an elder son's gay lifestyle and the changing values of American families, it not only opened the door for other reality TV. This series proved to be a groundbreaking turning point that forever changed American television programming and led the way to more complex family portraits. TV Guide magazine acknowledged An American Family as the first reality television series and named it among "The 50 Greatest Shows of All Time."
Although An American Family was considered the first reality TV show, the real craze was supposedly started by the hit TV show COPS. COPS first aired on Fox in March 1989 and has been filmed in over 140 cities across the US. This hit series followed arrests of over 2,000 suspects. This docu-reality series has become one of the longest- running primetime entertainment program ever, as it is currently celebrating it 20th year. After the success of this hit reality show. It was clear that reality TV was becoming unleashed.
Soon after COPS, came MTV’s Real World in 1992. Then in 2002, CBS’s reality hit Survivor hit the air.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
ND in Reality TV
Being from North Dakota, I thought it would be interesting to dig into the lives of three infamous winners of reality TV. I researched three winning contestants of reality TV, Noah(aka) Corn fed, Caridee English, and Nicole Linkletter.
Our most recent reality TV winner came from Fargo, ND. Noah was competing on a new dating show on VH1, “Real Chance of Love.” I personally found and interest in the show and kept up with it week by week. (Perhaps only because she was a hometown contestant!) When the show began, she was given the nickname Cornfed, do to her North Dakota roots. In the first few eliminations we sort of saw her as an underdog, being one of the last to be chosen each time. However, as the episodes progressed we began to see her real ND characteristics come out, and they definitely caught “Real’s” attention! By the fact that she was able to stay out of the cattiness of the other girls and not cause problems for him, Real started to become much more interested in this North Dakota girl. By the Final two, it was just Cornfed and Bay Bay Bay left for Real to make his decision from. In the end he revealed that he had actually fallen for this small town North Dakota girl!
The next well known North Dakota winner that I researched was, America’s Next Top Model winner Caridee English. She was also a Fargo, ND native who was chosen as the cycle 7 winner in December of 2006. Her grand prize for winning the show was a $100,000 contract with Cover Girl Cosmetics, a modeling contract with Elite Models, and a 6-page fashion editorial and cover of seventeen magazine. Throughout the season she struggled with many issues, one being psoriasis which she had struggled with for 15 years. And another happened during one of the photo shoots; she caught hypothermia from the cold water they were shooting in. However, Caridee’s personality was considered fun and outgoing and it seems that that was what caught the judges’ attention.
The final winning North Dakota contestant is perhaps one of the first ever. Nicole Linkletter, who was also a contestant of America’s Next Top Model, is a Grand Forks, ND native who competed in cycle 5 of ANTM. Many of us can remember the episode in which fellow contestant, Bre, dumped Nicole’s energy drinking down the sink and lied about it. However, Nicole was able to make it to the top two with model Nik Pace, in which her runway performance earned her the title of America’s Next Top Model winner.
Overall, I would have to say that North Dakota has done pretty well with its contestants. Maybe it’s just the rooting for the Hometown girls that gets us interested in some of this Reality TV.
Our most recent reality TV winner came from Fargo, ND. Noah was competing on a new dating show on VH1, “Real Chance of Love.” I personally found and interest in the show and kept up with it week by week. (Perhaps only because she was a hometown contestant!) When the show began, she was given the nickname Cornfed, do to her North Dakota roots. In the first few eliminations we sort of saw her as an underdog, being one of the last to be chosen each time. However, as the episodes progressed we began to see her real ND characteristics come out, and they definitely caught “Real’s” attention! By the fact that she was able to stay out of the cattiness of the other girls and not cause problems for him, Real started to become much more interested in this North Dakota girl. By the Final two, it was just Cornfed and Bay Bay Bay left for Real to make his decision from. In the end he revealed that he had actually fallen for this small town North Dakota girl!
The next well known North Dakota winner that I researched was, America’s Next Top Model winner Caridee English. She was also a Fargo, ND native who was chosen as the cycle 7 winner in December of 2006. Her grand prize for winning the show was a $100,000 contract with Cover Girl Cosmetics, a modeling contract with Elite Models, and a 6-page fashion editorial and cover of seventeen magazine. Throughout the season she struggled with many issues, one being psoriasis which she had struggled with for 15 years. And another happened during one of the photo shoots; she caught hypothermia from the cold water they were shooting in. However, Caridee’s personality was considered fun and outgoing and it seems that that was what caught the judges’ attention.
The final winning North Dakota contestant is perhaps one of the first ever. Nicole Linkletter, who was also a contestant of America’s Next Top Model, is a Grand Forks, ND native who competed in cycle 5 of ANTM. Many of us can remember the episode in which fellow contestant, Bre, dumped Nicole’s energy drinking down the sink and lied about it. However, Nicole was able to make it to the top two with model Nik Pace, in which her runway performance earned her the title of America’s Next Top Model winner.
Overall, I would have to say that North Dakota has done pretty well with its contestants. Maybe it’s just the rooting for the Hometown girls that gets us interested in some of this Reality TV.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Types of Reality TV
I don’t know about you, but for me it seems as if nearly all the shows on TV are becoming Reality Based. For this blog, I thought it would be interesting to find out the different types of reality TV out there.
According to http://realitytv.suite101.com/article.cfm/casting_directors_and_reality_tv, there are 4 basic types of Reality TV. One is called The Slice of Life, which can bring you into a particular celebs life. The second is the Social Experiment, which would be a show that brings a number of different people to live together for a period of time. The third is the Talent Competition, which conducts searches for people with a particular talent. The fourth and final type is the Game Show, in which contestants compete against one another for the grand prize at the end.
As I said, the Slice of Life type of reality TV brings you into the life of a famous or infamous person or people. On show fitting this type that comes right to my mind, is the Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica. This show aired on MTV several years ago when the couple was newly married. Each episode followed the couple as they faced new challenges in marriage. Many of us can recall the classic quote Jessica asked while eating a can of tuna “Is this chicken what I have, or is it fish?”
In my previous blog I mention the Real World, this type of reality TV would be considered the Social Experiment. In this show we are able to watch these people interact and build relationships with each other as are forced to live with each other for a specific period of time.
The next type of show is the Talent Competition. In this type of reality people are sought out for a particular talent such as singing or dancing. Many of us are familiar with TV series American Idol. However, One more recent one is Americas Best Dance Crew, which different dance groups compete to win $100,000 and a touring contract.
The final type of Reality TV listed is the Game Show, one example of this type of show is the CBS hit Survivor. In this show, contestants are isolated in a remote location and compete for cash and other prizes. With each show there is an elimination that allows the contestants to vote off a tribe member, until only one final contestant remains. The final and winning contestant at the end of the show receives $1,000,000.
Though each of these shows is different, each has one very important factor: Reality. In one form or another it is almost without a doubt, that we’ve all been drawn to one form or another of this addicting and growing form of television. I personally can admit that Reality TV plays a huge role in my weekly viewing schedule!
According to http://realitytv.suite101.com/article.cfm/casting_directors_and_reality_tv, there are 4 basic types of Reality TV. One is called The Slice of Life, which can bring you into a particular celebs life. The second is the Social Experiment, which would be a show that brings a number of different people to live together for a period of time. The third is the Talent Competition, which conducts searches for people with a particular talent. The fourth and final type is the Game Show, in which contestants compete against one another for the grand prize at the end.
As I said, the Slice of Life type of reality TV brings you into the life of a famous or infamous person or people. On show fitting this type that comes right to my mind, is the Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica. This show aired on MTV several years ago when the couple was newly married. Each episode followed the couple as they faced new challenges in marriage. Many of us can recall the classic quote Jessica asked while eating a can of tuna “Is this chicken what I have, or is it fish?”
In my previous blog I mention the Real World, this type of reality TV would be considered the Social Experiment. In this show we are able to watch these people interact and build relationships with each other as are forced to live with each other for a specific period of time.
The next type of show is the Talent Competition. In this type of reality people are sought out for a particular talent such as singing or dancing. Many of us are familiar with TV series American Idol. However, One more recent one is Americas Best Dance Crew, which different dance groups compete to win $100,000 and a touring contract.
The final type of Reality TV listed is the Game Show, one example of this type of show is the CBS hit Survivor. In this show, contestants are isolated in a remote location and compete for cash and other prizes. With each show there is an elimination that allows the contestants to vote off a tribe member, until only one final contestant remains. The final and winning contestant at the end of the show receives $1,000,000.
Though each of these shows is different, each has one very important factor: Reality. In one form or another it is almost without a doubt, that we’ve all been drawn to one form or another of this addicting and growing form of television. I personally can admit that Reality TV plays a huge role in my weekly viewing schedule!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Reality TV
There’s no doubt that we’ve all been intrigued by this growing form of television, by one show or another. Whether watching the Bachelor on ABC, Real World on MTV, or Rock of Love with Brett Michaels on VH1, we’ve all been sucked into this exciting new world of television. I myself am an avid watcher of Real World, as well as, the numerous dating shows out there. However, I guess my question about these shows has started to become, “Is all reality TV thriving on the sex, drugs, and drinking of its cast?” Don’t get me wrong, these factors do make for one interesting episode after the next.
Take for example, Rock of Love with Brett Michaels. I was extremely hooked to the first season, which in my opinion provided the least amount of sex and drinking. However, now that the second and third seasons have been introduced, I’m starting to see more of the sex and drinking. While watching an episode of the third and newest season the other night, I became somewhat disgusted at the fact that he actually admitted to eliminating a girl because she took a vow to have no sex for three years. In my opinion if all he wants is a groupie to begin with, he shouldn’t need a TV show to get one.
Another example of how sex, drugs and drinking have become a huge entertainment in reality TV, is The Real World on MTV. In this series 7-8 strangers are picked to live in a house together for several months. I admit to having watched numerous seasons of the Real World. But now thinking back to all the episodes that I have watched, almost every single episode showed them out at bars partying and “hooking up.” There have been numerous episodes in which, fights have broken out due to the excessive drinking and partying of the roommates. And there is only a handful of times, when I have seen the producers step in to stop the fighting and/or drinking.
The Bachelor, however, is one show that I do respect as far as reality TV goes. This show has still kept most of its morale as far at the sex and drinking goes. The drinking is kept in moderation and the sex is still somewhat nonexistent, except for the kissing.
I guess my question for this week regarding reality TV is, Why is it that sex, drugs, and excessive drinking sell so well? And why to the producers of these shows seem to encourage these things so much? If the Bachelor can still survive its countless seasons without providing sex and drinking in excess, why is it that most of the others can’t?
The following are trailers for the newest season of Real World, Brooklynn:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIWZCJ2ZD2A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viRH5yX6rw0&feature=related
This URL is the trailer for season 2 of Rock of Love:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QA8Vm4SWgeE&feature=related
Take for example, Rock of Love with Brett Michaels. I was extremely hooked to the first season, which in my opinion provided the least amount of sex and drinking. However, now that the second and third seasons have been introduced, I’m starting to see more of the sex and drinking. While watching an episode of the third and newest season the other night, I became somewhat disgusted at the fact that he actually admitted to eliminating a girl because she took a vow to have no sex for three years. In my opinion if all he wants is a groupie to begin with, he shouldn’t need a TV show to get one.
Another example of how sex, drugs and drinking have become a huge entertainment in reality TV, is The Real World on MTV. In this series 7-8 strangers are picked to live in a house together for several months. I admit to having watched numerous seasons of the Real World. But now thinking back to all the episodes that I have watched, almost every single episode showed them out at bars partying and “hooking up.” There have been numerous episodes in which, fights have broken out due to the excessive drinking and partying of the roommates. And there is only a handful of times, when I have seen the producers step in to stop the fighting and/or drinking.
The Bachelor, however, is one show that I do respect as far as reality TV goes. This show has still kept most of its morale as far at the sex and drinking goes. The drinking is kept in moderation and the sex is still somewhat nonexistent, except for the kissing.
I guess my question for this week regarding reality TV is, Why is it that sex, drugs, and excessive drinking sell so well? And why to the producers of these shows seem to encourage these things so much? If the Bachelor can still survive its countless seasons without providing sex and drinking in excess, why is it that most of the others can’t?
The following are trailers for the newest season of Real World, Brooklynn:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIWZCJ2ZD2A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viRH5yX6rw0&feature=related
This URL is the trailer for season 2 of Rock of Love:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QA8Vm4SWgeE&feature=related
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