CW Sunday Night

Sunday Night 8-10 PM
CW
Valentine & Easy Money














Manatee here! The Hollywood Reporter has announced that Media Rights Capital's Sunday night CW programming has come to a halt. That means Valentine and Easy Money have been 'shut down' so that writers can 'catch up' on scripts.

Valentine looked cheesy and came across as a mediocre version of the show Charmed. Don't use visual effects if you don't have the proper budget. If MRC was trying to make smaller budgeted shows for the CW, then stick with simple stories and good drama. If hip effects and explosions are what the audience wants, then come up with the cash. But based on the success of CW's Gossip Girl, a great costume designer and some hot 20 somethings a show does make.

I can't comment on Easy Money too much since I deleted the recording after 6 minutes. There was nothing compelling about this series at all. It looked cheap and the actors are terrible. Don't even bother wasting your time on these shows. Production is stopping and though MRC claims they will finish the 13 episodes of each show, you can bet there will not be Season #2's in either's future.

MRC would have done better to produce another teen soap opera or better yet - have picked up MOONLIGHT! Yeah, that's right, you should have picked up CBS's vampire series and you would have hit it big on Sunday nights.

Kath & Kim (1.1)

Thursday, October 9th @ 8:30 PM

NBC
Kath & Kim - Season 1, Episode #1 - Pilot

Recap: http://www.nbc.com/Kath_and_Kim/



















Manatee: So Kath and Kim, lamest comedy of the season!

Marmot: You think so? What about Gary Unmarried and Worst Week? And, um...uh...what happened to comedy?

Marmot: There used to be tons of them on.

Manatee: Let's put it this way, I got through2 episodes of Gary Unmarried before I canceled the DVR and 1 episode of Worst Week. I deleted Kath & Kim after 10 minutes. I didn't laugh once.

Marmot: You should have kept watching. The guy from the David Blaine Street Magic You Tube Edition is her husband.

Manatee: I saw him. He was probably the hightlight. But that's exactly the problem with this show. What actor gets a network comedy off a YouTube project? Granted the Blaine series is hilarious, it's much funnier than Kath & Kim. Molly Shannon and Selma Blair had NO chemistry as mother and daughter. Putting aside that they are actually 8 years apart, I felt they were pretty boring and lame on screen.

Marmot: That was a big problem I had as well, the age difference. I don't buy them as mother and daughter, it just looked like them trying to play younger and older. Honestly, I think I wanted to like this show more than I actually did. I'm going to give it another episode, but not much after that.

Manatee: I also did not like the comedic style. Was it going for an arrested development feel, an office feel, a sitcom feel? I'm not sure what it wanted to be.

Marmot: It was kind of a mess. There was a running joke - serious and combative dialogue between the two that is suddenly interrupted by observation of something completely unrelated - ie, "oh look at this shirt". It was funny once. By the third time, not charming anymore. I can only hope this was a pilot-only thing.

Marmot: But what I'm really wondering is where is this show going to go? Kath gets married, Kim gets back with her husband, then what? That's maybe a season's worth of storyline. How long did the original run?

Manatee: I often wonder about the story line of most comedies. One could ask where are you going when you spend all 1/2 hour in an office? But at least you're laughing! I can't see myself watching this show ever again, I hope it gets canceled tomorrow.

Life on Mars (1.1)

Thursday, October 9th, 2008 @ 10 PM

ABC

"Life on Mars" - Season 1, Episode #1 - Pilot

Recap: http://abc.go.com/primetime/lifeonmars/index?pn=recaps#t=120560&d=126808

"Can you find Michael Imperioli in this photo? We can't."

Marmot: As David Bowie once sang, "Is there life on Maaaaaaaaaaars?" That being said, I kind of like Life on Mars. And kind of don't.

Manatee: I enjoyed it as well to a certain extent. At the end of the day I have a few issues, one being that is is just 'another cop' show... and two if the series ends with him waking up out of a coma, then come on ABC. You need a better development team, because there has got to be something more creative than a coma!

Marmot: I'm resisting temptation to see how the original ended. All in all, this show is just The Singing Detective, but there were some really enjoyable parts, namely the conflict with Harvey Keitel and Michael Imperioli's mustache. Even if Harvey is phoning it in.

Manatee: I loved the mustache! I totally forgot it was / is a BBC series. If we watch that version, that would open up our Thursday night viewing...

Marmot: To watch the final season of ER? No thanks. I've never seen an episode and I'm not about to start now. How will I ever catch up to find out how Dr. Clooney's hair became Dr. Stamos' hair?"

Manatee: Good point. No need to start watching that show now. Did you have any thoughts on Life on Mars compared to CBS's Swingtown? Seeing that they were both set in the 70s.

Marmot: I would have liked Swingtown a lot better if Bruce had been hit by a car and magically transported to 2008. But both series use too much music.

Manatee: I do like the way that Life on Mars was shot. I think it almost has that 70s grainy look as opposed to the bright and cheery Swingtown look.

Marmot: Swingtown, in terms of photography, was terrible. This pilot looked fantastic.

Manatee: I liked the design more too. Though I was not alive in the 70s, I thought LoM looked more natural. Help Manatee out here Marmot.

Marmot: I was only alive for 7 months in the 70s, Manatee. I wasn't paying much attention to the decor.

Manatee: Anyhow, what do you think of the cast? Sort of unusual for a series huh?

Marmot: Yeah, it's pretty high end. I dig it, even though I think Gretchen Mol is a terrible actress.

Manatee: She sort of does suck.

Marmot: Never been a fan of hers. My biggest problem with the pilot is that it sort of glossed over the more interesting aspects, like trying to reconcile life in this era and focused more on the cop stuff, which was pretty standard.

Manatee: Well, what else are you going to do as a cop stuck in the 70s? Work stuff. I think Mol has the potential to be more that a coworker. Maybe they will go on a date to the disco, and then become swingers

Marmot: I just want to see him trying to order Chicken BBQ pizza and trying to watch Sportscenter.

Gary Unmarried (1.1)

Wednesday, September 24th, 2008 @ 8:30 PM
CBS
Gary Unmarried - Season 1, Episode #1 - Pilot


Recap: http://www.cbs.com/primetime/project_gary/recaps/

Manatee: Gary Unmarried

Marmot: Is terrible.

Manatee: I was going to say harmless.

Marmot: That's true. It was halfway tolerable through most of it...but then Ed Begley, Jr. showed up.

Manatee: But it's Jay Mohr, how bad can it be?

Marmot: Did you see Jerry Maguire? It can be bad. Of course, Action! makes up for that.

Manatee: Did you not like the marriage therapist turned fiance story line, or you didn't like Ed Begley Jr. ie: you hate the environment?

Marmot: I just don't like Ed Begley, Jr. If not liking him makes me a hater of the environment, then so be it. I just thought the impromptu therapy session was so ridiculous. Especially after watching weeks and weeks of the brilliance that is In Treatment.

Manatee: Agreed on the therapy session. I'm not sure it's the best way to spend 30 minutes of my life, but I don't see it causing too much harm either. This is probably a show my mom watches.

Marmot: My mom likes Two and a Half Men, so I'm sure she'll like this. I actually kind of fell asleep during this. Why was the girl hiding under the boy's bed?

Manatee: I guess because they were probably kissing and the mom knocked on the locked door

Marmot: I don't like the mom. She's mean.

Manatee: True, but what about that daughter? Pretty realistic teenager huh?

Marmot: Don't all 12 year olds worship Al Gore?

Manatee: No.

Marmot: I did when I was that age.

Manatee: I liked NKotB.

Marmot: They're like Al Gore.

Knight Rider (1.1)

Wednesday, September 24th, 2008 @ 8 PM
NBC
Knight Rider - Season 1, Episode #1 - "A Knight in Shining Armor"


Recap:http://www.nbc.com/Knight_Rider/recaps/#cat=1&mea=101&ima=51190

From the Live Feed: "KITT ran a sluggish first lap in the ratings race as NBC's series premiere of "Knight Rider" had starter problems Wednesday night. Despite having the highest level of viewer awareness of NBC's new fall shows, "Rider" (7.3 million viewers, 2.4 preliminary adults 18-49 rating and a 7 share) opened in third place in the 8 p.m. hour, slightly less than how game show "Deal or No Deal" performed in the slot last year. Its rating is also less than half what the "Rider" movie (5.0) pulled last February." http://www.thrfeed.com/2008/09/knight-rider-ra.html

Manatee here.

Did you see Knight Rider last night? I'm one of the guilty 7.3 million viewers. Let me tell you, watching this show was purely for M & M research, not entertainment. If entertainment was what I was looking for, I would have stared at a blank wall. The show lacks any and all production value, story development, and acting talent - three very integral parts of a television series. Fast car chases, poorly shot and edited, a series does not make. GivingKITT and Knight Industries lab a make over isn't fooling anyone. The cast is an ensemble of fairly unrecognizable names and faces, and with good reason. The story jumps all over the place, is lacks all intrigue and thrill.

I cannot believe that NBC puts product such as this on the air. That's why I barely watch any of their shows. They have been a struggling network for many years now after having been top dog. With the departure of shows like Friends and Will & Grace, NBC went down the tubes. BenSilverman , current co-chairman, seems very committed to NBC and to reviving NBC glory day series, but I'm not sure that method is going to work. Fox's is hitting the ratings big with Fringe, a new (though slightly recycled theme) show from solid performing producers who are hot. ABC has hits from a solid production company,Berlanti TV, in Eli Stone, Brothers and Sisters, and Dirty Sexy Money. CW is trying to resuscitate the old zip code but with similar results: terrible production value, dull cast, and lame story lines. I'm not sure NBC is on the right track following last winter'sWGA strike.

What else do we have to look forward to from NBC? Crusoe, based on the novel, Robinson Crusoe. My Own Worst Enemy, Christian Slater? Hello! Kings, an inspiring exploration of the timeless David vs. Goliath struggle. Kath and Kim, maybe will be funny, but considering how many directors andreshoots they've gone through... Heroes, personally I don't watch this show, but I hear the third season is boring. Life, where insiders say the writers and stories are struggling. ER is on it's last season. But there is always the Law & Orderfranchise. NBC seems to be adhering to a "blow things up" kind of fall season. If they don't watch out, they might explode themselves.

Marmot did not watch this show, but predicts that NBC will cancel the show after episode #6 (which should be roughly end of October or beginning of November). What do you think? Post below!

90210 (1.5)

Tuesday, September 23rd, 2008 @ 8 PM

CW
90210 - Season 1, Episode #5 - "Wide Awake & Dreaming"



Recap: http://cwtv.com/shows/90210/episodes/105

Marmot: Dunnun nun nun nun nun nun nun CLAP CLAP

Manatee: Sex, Drugs, and Rock & Roll

Marmot: And nebisshy parents. WHERE IS BRANDON WALSH?!?! This show is unbearable...I don't know who anyone is except for Kelly and Brenda and they're not doing anything except running a play.

Manatee: They are boring. No one wants to see 2 old farts (aka people their teachers' age) dating. Kids these days want fresh faces.

Marmot: I want Steve Sanders, not Ethan...whatever his name is.

Manatee: I like Ty. I wish he was a cast regular.

Marmot: This is definitely not the 90210 of old. Remember towards the end of senior year when Dylan's dad was blown up in a car explosion by the mafia?

Manatee: Yeah, that rocked.

Marmot: I don't see anything like that happening on this show.

Manatee: No, this version is not as dark. But if the upcoming episodes are more like last nights, it might not be that bad. I think the back stabbing picked up last night. That's a good start

Marmot: I just don't know if I have the patience to wait for Ethan's dad to get blown up. That's a lot of show to get through. And when is Brenda going to talk about her family? Where are Jim and Cindy Walsh?

Manatee: China.

Marmot: Really? Why did they go there?

Manatee: Business.

Marmot: I forget what business they were in. The problem with this 90210 is the characters. I really couldn't care less about any of them, save for Annie and Dixon. Maybe Silver. But that's only IF they did something interesting.

Manatee: The show might get better if they move back to Kansas.

Marmot: What if that whole class moved to Kansas? The rich kids, too. That would be worth watching.

Manatee: It would be like 'Zip Code Swap.' - Fox's lately reality series!

Marmot: I know how to improve 90210. It came to me during last night's episode when Kelly said something to Brenda about remembering everything from high school. Get this - what if Kelly and Brenda were transported to an alternate dimension (ie, like they're in now), but in this dimension, they didn't exist as people, but characters on a TV show. And then you could have a scene with them watching the DVD's and remembering high school. How amazing would that be?

Manatee: I'm not sure I follow you.

Marmot: Like this show, 90210 takes place in an alternate reality, OUR reality. Where Kelly Taylor and Brenda Walsh were characters on a TV show, not real people. But Kelly and Brenda are magically transported to this reality from theirs, which exists are reality to them. Follow?

Manatee: Is this dimension scripted or reality? I have an idea. What if 90210 and Saved By the Bell merged?

Marmot: Are you kidding? I had this idea in 1991!

Manatee: I wish you had made it happen.

Marmot: I want there to be a Gossip Girl/90210 crossover event.

Manatee: They should consider that.

Marmot: It doesn't have to be the whole cast. Just send Chuck

Manatee: Stir up some trouble.

Marmot: Chuck should have his own show. Or better yet, just visit different shows. Like what if Chuck was behind everything on Fringe?

Manatee: That would be great. I also think he might be the son of "The Mentalist."

Worst Week (1.1)

Monday, September 22nd, 2008 @ 9:30 PM
CBS
Worst Week - Season 1, Episode #1 - Pilot


Recap: http://www.cbs.com/primetime/worst_week/recaps/

Manatee here...

This show was some of the worst television I've seen in awhile. It was such a stupid 1/2 hour of TV, yet I laughed so hard I almost wet my pants. I'm not a fan of comedy series: Old Christine makes me want to poke out my eyes; 'Til Death makes me want to puke; How I Met Your Mother puts me to sleep; Big Bang causes gas pains; and Worst Week falls into all of these categories. Yet I still found myself laughing. Is it that I have a predisposition to hate anything that comes in a 1/2 hour format? Do I hate to laugh?

Watching this show does not challenge my brain, nor does it garner an emotional response. It doesn't aim to ponder deep life questions or world issues. I suppose there are a lot of people out there who just want to laugh at mindless television antics, but I'm not one of them. Worst Week is just a TV rehash of the film Meet the Parents. Tough dad hates daughter's boyfriend. Boyfriend keeps messing up; he can't do anything right. You could predict everything that was going to happen in the scenes. I'm not sure where the rest of the season will go, but I don't feel invested enough to find out. I think the pilot was good for an initial viewing (and good for a few laughs), but I don't think I'm going to bother with offering precious DVR space to Worst Week. It's just not a show worth watching each week.

Gossip Girl (2.4)

Monday, September 22nd @ 8 PM
CW
Gossip Girl - Season 2, Episode #4 - "The Ex-Files"

Recap: http://cwtv.com/shows/gossip-girl/episodes/204

"Where Does He Get Those Wonderful Clothes?"

Manatee: You know what I liked about last night's GG? It was a pretty stinky ep overall, but I like that S is back on top. We never saw her as Queen first season but you got the impression that S's departure opened the doors for B's reign. I like this potential role reversal, and I want to see S squash Dan.

Marmot: ...These people go to high school?!?!

Manatee: I'm not sure about that actually.

Marmot: I think that's what was implied last night. So is Serena the Mayor now? Is that what happened?

Manatee: Yes. She somehow took over ruling the school again. You see early in ep 1.01 S returns to school after having been away for some time and Blair is not happy that she is back. But overall S seems like a nice girl. Now the bitch is back. All season S struggled with being a good girl... but now we question what was S really is? Is she the nice girl Dan fell in love with? Or the bitch everyone knows she may be deep down inside? The bigger question is, why does Chuck care? I think he just wants to take B down so she is so depressed she can't say no to his advances anymore.

Marmot: Do you think the other people in that school besides the 7 or so main characters even care about what goes on in their world?

Manatee: Did you see the stack of files B had? I'd say so. How many high schoolers care about academics? Be honest, they are there because they have to be so why not focus on the social aspect? Get an A or be top dog? What matters more when you are 16?

Marmot: I couldn't even distinguish what being top dog means to them. Its not the ability to get into a club and buy alcohol, because the whole school was at that bar. It's not money, because they all have more than god.

Manatee: It's about being feared, bowed down to, and having an entourage. Having POWER!

Marmot: Like the power to convince 2 British royals to go back to there country? I think Blair might be the most powerful person in the world.

Manatee: You haven't seen Serena in action yet.

Marmot: Best line of the night was Serena's mom: "I'm just trying to be a good mother" when she was questioned about the big breakfast on the table. Since when is being a good mother telling the help to make breakfast?

Manatee: She's trying. Cut her some slack. She just got back from a long and tiresome honeymoon to a millionaire who spent most of his time out of town on business.

Marmot: And now she has no friends except for 29 Year Old Dad and his new girlfriend.

Manatee: I'm surprise, Marmot, you have not commented yet on Chuck's wardrobe yet.

Marmot: I'm saving the best for last. All I have to say is, does The Joker know that Chuck is wearing his suit?

Fringe (1.1)

Tuesday, September 9th, 2008 @ 8 PM
FOX
Fringe - Season 1, Episode # 1 - Pilot
Recap: http://fox.com/fringe/recaps/s1_e1.htm

Manatee: So Marmot, do you have a favorite new show thus far this season?

Marmot: I do… It's 90210. Just kidding. It's Fringe.

Manatee: You gave me a heart attack for a sec there.

Marmot: What if the cast of Fringe and 90210 swapped places?

Manatee: In a weird way, I think it would work. I already have a hard time buying Pacy as the genius on Fringe.

Marmot: I like his dad, though. He's like the science fictional Kramer.

Manatee: I have to agree. The performance is great, and really convincing. I like the comedic play between him and Olivia's assistant.

Marmot: Do FBI agents typically have assistants?

Manatee: I'm not too clear on that. I suppose she's not a 'personal assistant' and is more of a 'junior agent' if you will.

Marmot: Do you think she still has to roll calls?

Manatee: Probably. What did you like about the pilot? I enjoyed it, and I'm not that huge a fan of 'sci-fi.'

Marmot: Well first, I thought it was shot beautifully. Some of the shots were breathtaking. Overall, I really liked it. A little bit of X-Files, a little LOST and a great cast.

Manatee: I like that there is going to be a new case each week, but there is an overall larger scheme here. I'm interested to learn more about that company. Though I am a little sick of the thread in series about a large corporation taking over and controlling America. Not that I know that's the direction they are headed. But it feels that way.

Marmot: I'm a little confused on what this company does. I think they're supposed to be Microsoft, but bigger.

Manatee: Did you see their office? It's huge and white and spacious. And the woman had a fake crazy computerized hand. It's biazzro-land.

Marmot: That was one thing that bothered me. The show is somewhat based in psuedo-science, but a super-advanced robotic hand? That's pretty much fiction.

Manatee: That we know of... 'find the pattern.'

Marmot: Oh yeah, the pattern. I've heard that the answer to the whole show is in those things in all the promotional material. So the answer is Frog, Leaf,Apple.

Marmot: That was easy. What happens when you solve the pattern?

Marmot: I just did. It's frog, leaf, apple.

Manatee: Is the earth going to explode now?

Marmot: um.....yes. I think maybe they have to merge. Like the frog has to eat the apple?

Manatee: How long do you see a show like this lasting for? If it was purely procedural, like a Law & Order case each week, maybe it could last 19 years too. But this pattern thing seems to imply a natural end (at some point).

Marmot: How long do frogs live for?

Manatee: Roughly 14 years. But then again, some are only 2-3 years. Really it varies.

Marmot: I think that's going to decide how long the show continues. Well, consider the X-Files. It lasted 9 seasons on a mixed serial/episodic format.

Manatee: The series definitely is inviting a lot of discussion. I'm very curious about what is going on.

Marmot: Do you think that the guy from L O S T is in on it?

Manatee: Ben?

Marmot: No, Lance Reddick. He plays Matthew Abaddon on L O S T and the FBI agent that hates her on Fringe.

Manatee: Oh yeah, that guy. I knew he looked familiar. Well it's hard to say too much since you have not watched episode #2.

Marmot: Is it bad that I've watched more episodes of 90210 than Fringe?

Manatee: YES! What are you thinking?!

Privileged (1.1, 1.2)

Tuesday, September 9th & 16th, 2008 @ 9 PM
CW
"Privileged" - Season 1 - Pilot and Episode # 2 -"Pilot" & "All About Honesty"
http://cwtv.com/shows/privileged/episodes

Manatee here.

I thought I'd give you a few quick thoughts on CW's new series, 'Privileged.' This show was somewhat of a surprise to me... I wasn't even sure I was going to watch it. But if you are a 'Gossip Girl,' '90210,' or 'OC' fan, might I suggest a screening of this series. I saw some clips this summer that were pretty boring, but for the sake of this blog, I watched the first two hours. The show starts off in Manhattan following Megan and her terrible celebrity tabloid (TMZ-esque) job. Before the first commercial break, she is fired but simultaneously sent to McMansion, Florida for a nanny / tutor job. JoAnna Garcia as Megan is great. A real breath of fresh air, quirky yet charming. If you watch the episode, you'll find yourself really liking her character.

The show is not quite as entertaining as season one of 'Gossip Girl' which allowed viewers a great chance to escape reality and be immersed in the upper class socialites of Manhattan. You do get a peek at high society, Palm Beach style. Charity events, huge beach mansions, and ivy league aspiring
teens in a new zip code. It also gives us "20-somethings" a good look at a girl trying to make it in the wide world of 'entertainment.' Megan wants to write, but not trash - real hard hitting journalism for people that care. The drama she faces is keeping her wild and wacky charges in line, flirting with a cute and rich neighbor, finding time to write, dealing with family baggage, and standing up for herself to her strong-willed and successful (female) boss - some normal issues the working world faces.

Lucy Kate Hale (from 'Bionic Woman') and Ashley Newbrough are cute as Megan's students and aspiring heirs. Their mischief, so far, is fun, light and good natured. No cocaine snorting, 911 calling parties here, yet I still find myself very interested in their lives as well as Megan's. I was disappointed in Lily (played by Kristina Apgar). I found her annoying and out of place, acting wise. She was not as strong as the other actors. I'm geared up for next week. I hope episode #3 stays on par with the first two. If you checked it out, comment below and tell us your thoughts.

Gossip Girl (2.3)

Monday, September 15th, 2008 @ 8 PM

CW

Gossip Girl - Season 2 - Episode #3 - "The Dark Night"

Serena (Blake Lively) and Dan (Penn Badgley) are forced to deal with
their unspoken problems while trapped in an elevator during a citywide
blackout. In a humorous twist, Blair (Leighton Meester) questions the
lack of passion in her relationship with Marcus (guest star Patrick
Heusinger), while at the same time Chuck (Ed Westwick) appears to have
lost his "passion" for any woman other than Blair. Meanwhile, Nate
(Chace Crawford) struggles between his feelings for Vanessa (Jessica
Szohr) and his more-complicated-by-the-day relationship with Catherine
(guest star Madchen Amick). Jenny (Taylor Momsen) risks losing her
internship when Eleanor (Margaret Colin) catches Jenny critiquing one
of the Eleanor Waldorf designs. Matthew Settle also stars. Janice Cooke
directed the episode written by John Stephens. (CWtv.com)

Hey Gossip Girl fans!

Manatee Here.

Over it: Dan and Serena! Last week I was excited that they were back together, now I don't care. Their drama is super silly even for high schoolers. Though I did like those 3 pre-teen girls in the park - they were scary looking! That's what happens when you're 8 and you dress like you are 28.

Are you kidding me: Blair mistaking Chuck for Marcus! When did she become a little vixon?! Why was Blair in such a rush to get into Marcus' pants? I know he's a lord and all, but give it a few weeks will you Blair.

Not interested: Jenny and her internship with Eleanor.

Noticed: Rufus' weird looking date! Is she going to be a regular? And when did Rufus have time to meet this chick?

Overall: I'm feeling a little 'over' this show. I need some more spice otherwise I'm out. My DVR could use the extra space.

XOXO,

Manatee

America's Funniest Home Videos

What's happening to this world? RATINGS DATA:
Top 20 programs from 09/08/08 through 09/14/08 Rank Total # of
Viewers Total Viewer Rating 1 NBC SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL 17830 6.2 2
SUNDAY NIGHT NFL PRE-KICK 13560 4.7 3 60 MINUTES 12540 4.4 4 SAT NIGHT
FOOTBALL 11940 4.2 5 AMERICA'S GOT TALENT-WED 11700 4.1 6 AMERICA'S GOT
TALENT 11610 4.1 7 FOOTBALL NT AMERICA PT 3 10850 3.8 8 AMERICA'S GOT
TALENT 9/11 9830 3.4 9 DEAL OR NO DEAL-MON 9650 3.4 10 TWO AND A HALF
MEN 9180 3.2 11 BONES 9150 3.2 12 FRINGE 9130 3.2 13 CSI 9040 3.2
14 FLASHPOINT 8680 3.0 15 CRIMINAL MINDS 8360 2.9 16 20/20-FRI 8070
2.8 17 SAT NIGHT FTBL PRE-GAME 7860 2.7 18 BIG BROTHER 10-THU 7820 2.7
19 LAW AND ORDER:SVU 7610 2.7 20 AMER FUNN HOME VIDEOS 7510 2.6

Gossip Girl (2.1 & 2.2)

Monday, September 1st & 8th, 2008 @ 8 PM

CW

Gossip Girl - Season 2 - Episodes #1 & #2

"Summer, Kind of Wonderful"

#1: As the summer draws to a close in the Hamptons, Serena (Blake Lively)and Nate (Chace Crawford) have everyone fooled into thinking they are a couple to cover up the fact that Nate has been hooking up with a married older woman (guest star Amick) and Serena has been secretly mourning her break-up with Dan (Penn Badgley). Blair (Leighton Meester) returns from abroad with a hot guy on her arm (guest star Patrick Heusinger), making a very jealous Chuck (Ed Westwick) question his decision to leave Blair stranded at the heliport. Dan has spent the summer assisting a famous author (guest star McInerney), but decides to head to the Hamptons to see how things stand with Serena after a summer spent apart. While interning for Eleanor Waldorf's company, Jenny (Taylor Momsen) sneaks an invite to a much-coveted Hamptons' White Party at which Eric (Connor Paolo) introduces her to socialite Tinsley Mortimer. Matthew Settle also stars. J. Miller Tobin directed the episode written by Joshua Safran. (CWtv.com)

"Never Been Marcused"

#2: Blair (Leighton Meester) is over the moon that she is dating royalty and has every intention of becoming a royal herself, but a scheming Chuck (Ed Westwick) has other plans for Blair and hew new love, Marcus (guest star Patrick Heusinger). Serena (Blake Lively) and Dan (Penn Badgley) agree to keep their recent hook-ups a secret from their friends and family until they figure out what all this means for their relationship. Meanwhile, Nate (Chace Crawford) learns the downside to having an affair with a hot older woman, Catherine (guest star Madchen Amick), who also happens to be married. Taylor Momsen, Jessica Szohr and Matthew Settle also star. Michael Fields directed the episode written by executive producer Stephanie Savage. (CWtv.com)

Hey Gossip Girl fans!

Marmot and Manatee Here.

Marmot: What a lame summer for television. There were almost no new shows worth watching. Swingtown was boring and the only new show I really liked was The Middleman. Which has been canceled.

Manatee: Agreed. In Plain Sight was disappointing.? It was a summer of crap. The question is will the fall be any better?

Marmot: YES. Because Gossip Girl is back!

Manatee: I'm not so sure Marmot. I'm feeling a little down on GG this season so far.

Marmot: For me, the more ridiculous the show is, the better. And this season is REE DICK YOU LUSS

Manatee: I find it just plain ol' annoying... A NNOY ING!

Marmot: For instance...SPOTTED: Chuck Bass in a Riddler costume. (see above)

Manatee: I'd have to admit, that probably was the highlight! WHO CARES MOMENT: Jenny and her fashion career. The drama does not seem like it's really gotten going yet this season.

Marmot: OVERHEARD: 29-Year-Old Dad name dropping Tanya Donnelly (formally of the band Belly). Does anyone who likes this show know who she is? Why not just make up a name?

Manatee: Maybe she needs the publicity?

Marmot: She should start composing music for TV shows like Liz Phair has.

Manatee: FOR REAL: Thoughts on S and Dan getting back together?

Marmot: Who cares? Serena looks like she was supposed to be on 90210. The original 90210. And Dan looks like Jon Mayer, which makes me hate him.

Manatee: I think this will become a Ross - Rachel thing. Together, not together, supposed to be together, just hooking up, pregnant, not together, together, and so forth.

Marmot: Will Dan wear an armadillo costume?

Manatee: One can only hope. Then he will be a real rival to Chuck's attire

Marmot: I wish Chuck would start wearing more animal costumes.

Manatee: Such as?

Marmot: Giraffe.

Manatee: Hippo.

Marmot: Do you think that Nate's new milf-capade is actually a con artist, conspiring with Blair's new boyfriend? Because I do.

Manatee: I kind of had that notion at first as well. But she did give Nate a large stack of cash.? What would she get out of that?

Marmot: Nate didn't look at it. Maybe it's Monopoly money? Or, it takes money to make money.

Manatee: Interesting. But since the FBI seized Nate' s family's money, not sure where she is headed unless it's for Blair and Nate is a fun side trip. Also, what was up with Chuck's loan to Nate's mom? Can a 16 year old do that?

Marmot: Of course he can. He's Chuck Bass.

90210 (1.1, 1.2, 1.3)

Tuesday, September 2nd & 9th, 2008 @ 8 PM

CW

90210 - Season 1 - Pilot & Episodes #2-3

"We're Not In Kansas Anymore" & "Jet Set"

Harry Wilson (Rob Estes, "Women's Murder Club"), new principal of West Beverly Hills High School, returns from Kansas to his childhood home of Beverly Hills with his wife Debbie (Lori Loughlin, "In Case of Emergency"), their daughter Annie (Shenae Grimes, "Degrassi: The Next Generation") and adopted son Dixon, (Tristan Wilds, "The Wire") to care for Harry's mother, former television star Tabitha Wilson (Jessica Walter, "Arrested Development"). On their first day at West Bev, Annie and Dixon encounter Ethan (Dustin Milligan, "Runaway"), the star lacrosse player she met a few summers ago; Naomi (AnnaLynne McCord, "Nip/Tuck"), the spoiled rich girl whose sole focus is her Sweet Sixteen party; Silver (Jessica Stroup, "Prom Night"), the free-spirited girl who later gossips about Annie on her blog, and Navid (Michael Steger, "Criminal Minds"), editor of Blaze News. When Naomi fails to complete an assignment, English teacher Ryan Matthews (Ryan Eggold, "Dirt") and guidance counselor Kelly Taylor (special guest star Jennie Garth, "Beverly Hills, 90210"), bring the problem to Harry, who quickly realizes that keeping secrets about his past is going to be impossible. Dixon impresses his peers when he tries out for the lacrosse team, but has to deal with jealous teammates who will stop at nothing to sabotage him. Annie misses the deadline to audition for the spring musical but sparks fly when she meets the leading actor Ty (guest star Adam Gregory), one of
the most popular students on campus. Ty impresses Annie by flying her to San Francisco for dinner in his private jet, but Annie fails to mention her plans to her parents. Special guest star Shannen Doherty reprises her role as Brenda Walsh. Mark Piznarski directed the first episode, written by Rob Thomas and Gabe Sachs & Jeff Judah (#101). Wendey Stanzler directed the second episode, written by Gabe Sachs & Jeff Judah (#102). (Cwtv.com)

"Lucky Strike"

Annie (Shenae Grimes) and Dixon's (Tristan Wilds) Friday night plans come to a screeching halt when they learn that Harry (Rob Estes) and Debbie (Lori Loughlin) have planned a family bowling night. When Ethan (Dustin Milligan), Navid (Michael Steger) and Silver (Jessica Stroup) show up at the bowling alley, Harry and Debbie realize they have lost control of their family outing but encourage their kids to spend time with their friends. Ty (guest star Adam Gregory) shows up at the bowling alley, causing Annie to choose between spending time with him or Ethan. Naomi (AnnaLynne McCord) deals with a disappointing evening with her father and destroys a gift from him in a violent rage. Dixon discovers Silver asleep in her car, prompting Kelly (guest star Jennie Garth) to confront their mother Jackie (guest star Ann Gillespie, "Beverly Hills, 90210") about the repercussions of her alcoholic behavior. Jessica Walter also stars. Mark Piznarski directed the episode written by Jill Gordon. (Cwtv.com)

Hi 90210-ers!

Manatee here with some thoughts on the last 3 hours of the new '90210.'

First off, the acting on this new series, SUCKS! Whoever cast this show does not deserve to work in this town again. The girls are all anorexic looking, they make me want to eat 24/7 so I never look that bad. But not only is this a horribly unattractive cast, they cannot act well at all. Annie's excitement about her flight to San Fran was atrocious. I don't buy Rob Estes as the dad. He looks about 5 years older than his adopted son. And his struggle "dad vs. principal' is a lousy one. I also think that between the 3 hours already aired, there are no controversies worth watching. The writers introduce issues in the first 10 minutes that get resolved by minute number 58. Do the writers need a refresher course in drama and character arcs?

For example, in 'Lucky Strike," Silver has this whole dilemma with her 'abusive' mom. By the end, the problem seems to be fixed. Why wouldn't she hide her problem a little more from her friends. And why would that Women's Shelter turn away a minor that has an abusive mother. Sure Silver has a roof over her head to go back to, but I think a social worker should report something like that. Not to mention, as a principal, I think Harry needs to report the problem to a law official not just Silver's sister. Are the writer's writing like every episode is their last? I can't really blame them with TV's cancellation policy and track record, but come on, give us some time to get into the stories.

Additionally, Naomi learns her father is having an affair (duh! Saw that one coming...) and she is torn apart. When she works up the courage to tell her mother (about 3 minutes later, wow what a struggle!) her mom already knows and is okay with her husband's cheating ways! Oh Beverly Hills. I see where this is going. Naomi's mom will realize that not every husband cheats on his wife and will want to rekindle her love with Harry. Watch out lady from Full House, you're in for a cat fight.

The only semi-interesting mystery that arose was Kelly's 4 year old son. As a former 90210 fan, I knew that Kelly married Dylan but that was about circa 1999. She also dated Brandon, but the math doesn't quite work out. Everyone keeps referring to Sammy's father as 'him.' What's the big secret?! It's so obviously Steve. Kelly's clue gave that away (Note, she did date everyone on the show except David but that would have been a difficult sell - incest - in the 90's on Fox prime time). And then the kid has blond curly hair (like Steve's SOS pad)! Cat's out of the bag without you spelling it out, writers.

However, I can't help but feel this story is of little intrigue to anyone who is under the age of 25 right now. I know we discussed alittle bit about this spinoff concept vs. remake. I wish they left this as more of a straight remake and took out the Brenda, Kelly, etc. characters. I was young when the original came out, and perhaps seeing a revamped Peach Pit or Kelly in WBHS brings a little nostalgia ''round, but to a new generation of pre-teens yearning to stay up late to finish this 2 hour premiere, they couldn't care less about Kelly and her son or Brenda and her acting. They probably didn't go to CBS.com to catch up on the original series.

That being said, is this new series as edgy as the original? Is it a product of me being older? It felt a little flat to me. The drama was very false and manufactured. The problems seem pretty unrealistic in a Gossip Girl way, but not as entertaining or enveloped in escapism as the aforementioned. This is a big mansion, huge private jet kind of show - an LA Gossip Girl, but just without all the fun and glamor of last year's hit.