Hey folks,
Wow. I'm kind of surprised we're already at top 14 week. I can't remember past seasons quite moving this fast. That may just be my spotty memory though. I’m hoping for a good night, so lets see if we can’t make that happen, shall we?
Note: As always, this is the abridged recap. For a more complete rundown of the nights events (now in fancy live-blog style!) head to sytycd.ca
Janette and Brandon: They’ve got a Jean-Marc Genereaux (and France! Hi France!) Cha-Cha. I'm just not 100% feeling this. t gets significantly better as it goes on. Brandon gives great face and lots of great winks to the audience. It picks up by the end, but I was expecting something a little bit stronger. Nigel thinks it was the best damn cha-cha the show’s ever had. Mary gives them two first class tickets on the Hot Tamale train. Mia has changed her tune on Brandon because he’s amazing.
Kayla and Kupono: They’ve got a Sonja Tayeh contemporary. I like it, quite a bit. Kupono is actually impressing me quite a bit, and Kayla, despite, being a little bit of a prop, is also great. It's not like crazy "The Garden" banoodles, but it's really really solid. I could have used a touch more grit in it, but quite good overall. Nigel is happy to see them reach their potential. Mary says Sonja played to their strengths and they’re staying on the Hot Tamale train. Mia calls it Sonja’s best and makes the umpteenth incorrect comparison between Kupono and Mark.
Randi and Evan: They’ve got a Broadway routine choreographed by Joey Dowling. It's like 15 seconds into it, and I already think this might be my favorite Broadway routine ever. They're both BANOODLES and fantastic. I love the movement. I get a little bit of a mad scientist feeling from his face occasionally, but it's just like awesome in pretty much every way. Sheer awesome. All the judges are idiots, because they didn’t love it as much as I did and weren’t impressed with Evan. Yet the only thing they can find to nitpick is their wrists. C’mon people.
Caitlin and Jason: They’ve got Brian Friedman pop-jazz about an Alien destroying the world and then impregnating the last man on earth. So it’s gonna be light and happy this week. What in the hell is Caitlin wearing? I can't even focus all that much on the dance because I'm completely distracted by her... ensemble? What I see of the dance, I kind of like. It's not jaw-droppingly good, and they're probably heading to the bottom three again. But the more I watch the routine, I like the movements. There's a lot of cool in there. Nigel likes that they committed 100% to it, but wishes Caitlin were dressed skimpier, calling her a human condom. Cat says "Safety first." Cat is full of win. It didn’t sit right for Mary. Mia says Brian probably doesn’t think this is his best work, but thinks they danced it well.
Jeanine and Philip: They’ve got a NappyTabs hip-hop involving a chain. Well, Phil is crushing this, as is completely expected. Jeanine pales in comaprison to him, as expected. But she's doing her best to hold her own, and thankfully, they've got one of the better NappyTabs routines. I have to say though, the chain is a distraction, because I'm watching it to see whether it's going to mess them up. Didn’t love it in the end. Nigel calls it tremendous, Mary found it to be incredibly creative, but Mia kept on getting caught up in the chain-ography.
Melissa and Ade: They’ve got a Thordal Christensan Pas-De-Deux. Utter. Beauty. Melissa's pointe is fantastic, as expected. Ade is there mainly for her, but when he's given things to do, he does them with aplomb. Pas De Deux needs to be on this show a lot more. These two are still the most connected couple on the show, and nail the emotions of the routine perfectly. Nigel mainly pats himself on the back for having classical dance on the show, but calls it superb. Mary just loved it and didn’t want to wake up. Mia found them to be brilliant.
There’s a video package introducing the Dizzy Feet Foundation, which will award scholarships to talented, underpriveleged dancers. My mean heart can't say anything bad about this, so I’ll keep this brief. You can go to dizzyfeetfoundation.org to find out more.
Karla and Vitolio: They’ve got a Jean Marc (and still France) quickstep, aka the kiss of death. Awww, Karla just looks utterly terrified. She keeps looking down at her feet. They put on a brave face despite knowing their fates, but I mean, it's the quickstep. Better dancers have tried and failed to conquer it. They put as much personality as they can muster into it, but it's just fighting a losing battle. Nigel loved the choreography, Mary liked it overall, and Mia thinks Jean-Marc is a genius and they danced it well.
My Rankings for the Night:
1)Randi and Evan
2) (in a virtual tie) Melissa and Ade
[big jump]
3) Kayla and Kupono
4) Janette and Brandon
5) [very close to 4] Caitlin and Jason
[medium sized jump]
6) Jeanine and Philip
7) Karla and Vitolio
Who’s In Trouble: Karla and Vitolio are guaranteed a bottom 3 spot. Jason and Caitlin are pretty much too. I’m confounded as to who couple number 3 is gonna be. Kayla and Kupono? Melissa and Ade? Will Phil’s fanbase fail to save him this week due to perceived safety?
Who’s Going Home: Obviously, Karla and Vitolio. Not even a question.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Summer Appointment TV: Wipeout and So You Think You Can Dance
So, this is parts two and three of that week-long series. It was a busy day yesterday, so instead you get two posts combined into one here. Huzzah? Anyway, the two shows being chronicled today are my two must-watch reality shows of the summer, that sadly air at the same time as one another. Thank god I don’t live in the age where there was only the chance to watch things on the television when they aired. Or, (shudder), when there were only three channels. God bless those old fogeys for putting up with that.
Wipeout
Pound for pound, I know of no funnier on all of television. And I do mean “pound for pound,” because the whole insane, amazing, always watchable pleasure of this show is people falling down in the funniest ways possible. Seriously, that’s the whole conceit of the show “lets make people attempt and fail to do obstacles that will result only in the funniest spills ever.” And by the gods of slapstick, they’ve done exactly what they set out to do.
Seriously, the obstacles on this show are just insane. There’s always the big balls, because NO ONE can do them. But as if they weren’t entertaining enough, they’ve added a giant motivator that swings at you and knocks you into the big balls if you wait too long. And it’s oh so glorious.
But there’s just so much more too. The giant air bag that they have to race each other across (where if someone jumps on when you’re already on there, you’ll likely go flying), the Hurt-les, which seem to be timed to inflict the most comical pain as possible, the crazy sweeper, which is just insane, and so many more. Sure, the laughs may all be 100% juvenile (I mean, it’s people falling down in funny ways), but don’t all of us have a kid somewhere inside? Oh you don’t? Fine, Scrooge, leave me to my Wipeout while you go watch you Masterpiece Theater. I don’t care. I’ll just keep watching and laughing my hind quarters off at things like this:
Or this:
Seriously, the laughs just don’t stop.
So You Think You Can Dance
So transitioning from the moronic yet amazing to the simply just amazing, So You Think You Can Dance is my third appointment show of the summer. If you’ve read this blog, you know what a big role SYTYCD plays. In fact, you likely found this blog because of it. And it’s not just because people liked my Dance recaps (You like them! You really like them!), it’s because SYTYCD is pretty much the best of the talent competition shows out there, and is steadily and surely closing in on Amazing Race as my pick of the best reality show out there period.
And that’s because these people are all bonkers talented. Which is not to say that the people on Idol aren’t. But, as a batting average type of thing, SYTYCD blows Idol out of the water talent-wise. Every member of the top 20 is wildly talented in at least some way (or at least nearly every member, cough cough Tony). Dance is also just more captivating to watch than singing, it’s about motion, which is critical in any sort of moving visual medium. It’s broad ranging, exposing different styles of dance that would not get seen on the other inferior dancing shows.
Plus, no discussion of SYTYCD’s greatness would be complete without mentioning Ms. Cat Deeley, the hostest with the mostest who was ROBBED of an Emmy last year and hopefully will not suffer the same mistake this year. She is pretty much perfect, caring when she needs to be, fun when she needs to be, cute as a button, often fashionable or at least entertaining in her faux pas. She is everything that the show needs, and much more charismatic and likeable than Ryan Seacrest. She holds the show together.
So, that was yesterday and today’s heaping dose of my opinion on what you may sorely be missing out on this summer. Love these shows? Think I’m an idiot for loving these shows? Dance fans, insulted that I included the show with Wipeout? Even after seeing those clips? Well, then comment!
Wipeout
Pound for pound, I know of no funnier on all of television. And I do mean “pound for pound,” because the whole insane, amazing, always watchable pleasure of this show is people falling down in the funniest ways possible. Seriously, that’s the whole conceit of the show “lets make people attempt and fail to do obstacles that will result only in the funniest spills ever.” And by the gods of slapstick, they’ve done exactly what they set out to do.
Seriously, the obstacles on this show are just insane. There’s always the big balls, because NO ONE can do them. But as if they weren’t entertaining enough, they’ve added a giant motivator that swings at you and knocks you into the big balls if you wait too long. And it’s oh so glorious.
But there’s just so much more too. The giant air bag that they have to race each other across (where if someone jumps on when you’re already on there, you’ll likely go flying), the Hurt-les, which seem to be timed to inflict the most comical pain as possible, the crazy sweeper, which is just insane, and so many more. Sure, the laughs may all be 100% juvenile (I mean, it’s people falling down in funny ways), but don’t all of us have a kid somewhere inside? Oh you don’t? Fine, Scrooge, leave me to my Wipeout while you go watch you Masterpiece Theater. I don’t care. I’ll just keep watching and laughing my hind quarters off at things like this:
Or this:
Seriously, the laughs just don’t stop.
So You Think You Can Dance
So transitioning from the moronic yet amazing to the simply just amazing, So You Think You Can Dance is my third appointment show of the summer. If you’ve read this blog, you know what a big role SYTYCD plays. In fact, you likely found this blog because of it. And it’s not just because people liked my Dance recaps (You like them! You really like them!), it’s because SYTYCD is pretty much the best of the talent competition shows out there, and is steadily and surely closing in on Amazing Race as my pick of the best reality show out there period.
And that’s because these people are all bonkers talented. Which is not to say that the people on Idol aren’t. But, as a batting average type of thing, SYTYCD blows Idol out of the water talent-wise. Every member of the top 20 is wildly talented in at least some way (or at least nearly every member, cough cough Tony). Dance is also just more captivating to watch than singing, it’s about motion, which is critical in any sort of moving visual medium. It’s broad ranging, exposing different styles of dance that would not get seen on the other inferior dancing shows.
Plus, no discussion of SYTYCD’s greatness would be complete without mentioning Ms. Cat Deeley, the hostest with the mostest who was ROBBED of an Emmy last year and hopefully will not suffer the same mistake this year. She is pretty much perfect, caring when she needs to be, fun when she needs to be, cute as a button, often fashionable or at least entertaining in her faux pas. She is everything that the show needs, and much more charismatic and likeable than Ryan Seacrest. She holds the show together.
So, that was yesterday and today’s heaping dose of my opinion on what you may sorely be missing out on this summer. Love these shows? Think I’m an idiot for loving these shows? Dance fans, insulted that I included the show with Wipeout? Even after seeing those clips? Well, then comment!
Monday, June 29, 2009
Summer Appointment TV: True Blood
So, folks, it’s kind of been a while since I wrote anything that wasn’t SYTYCD related. My bad. But this is the first post in a weeklong series that will only partially focus (one day) on Dance. This week is dedicated to highlighting the five summer appointment shows, the shows that I feel an overwhelming desire to watch on a weekly basis. Sadly, there are only about five shows that I feel make this cut, so a weeklong series works out quite well. Before I start, I want to mention two shows that didn’t make this list for logistics reasons, shows, however, that are most definitely appointment TV for me:
Harper’s Island- This has turned into an addictive little show for me. I can’t wait for the next episode, especially the closer we get to the finale. This past week’s episode was the best hour of TV I’ve seen in a few weeks. It may have seemed cheesy, and may have started out the same way, but it’s turned into a must-watch fun little mystery. Sadly, only the two hour finale is left.
Rock of Love Bus/Real Chance at Love Charm School- Let’s be honest, the only reason this particular VH1 show would have made the list is because it’s the show they’re airing right now. VH1 is always appointment TV for me, and it just didn’t feel right listing this one just because it happens to be on right now.
All that being said, and acknowledging Psych, which would have made this list but doesn’t start airing until much later this summer (Boo! Hiss!), let’s get down to business, shall we?
True Blood
Sundays, 9PM, HBO
About a week or two before the second season started airing, I watched the premiere of season 1. I managed to race through all of season 1 with days to spare before season 2 premiered. I shouldn’t say managed, actually, I should say thoroughly enjoyed. This show is dark, hilarious, sultry, and just plain entertaining. I mean, I should remind everyone like I love supernatural stuff, but I still think this show is just downright fun to watch.
What’s really interesting to me about True Blood, though, is how much more I care about the rest of the world of Bon Temps than about Sookie and Bill. They’re a little bit meh for me, I’d much rather focus on Tara, Lafayette, Sam, Hoyt, Jessica, Eric, Maryann, the rest of the Fangtasia crew, even people like Arlene and Terry Bellefleur. It’s just an utterly fascinating and gripping world.
Plus, the mysteries are fantastic. I’ve never read the books (I’m only slightly tempted too now, I’m not a big reader, what with being a ridiculous TV addict and all), which means I don’t know what’s coming (OK, well, slightly. I occasionally peek at spoilers) Each week I’m trying to figure out how things are going to play out, what’s coming next for these characters. It’s a show I want to immerse myself in. And it has become absolutely must-watch viewing for me. Can’t wait to see what happens next. And what in the hell is Maryann?
Harper’s Island- This has turned into an addictive little show for me. I can’t wait for the next episode, especially the closer we get to the finale. This past week’s episode was the best hour of TV I’ve seen in a few weeks. It may have seemed cheesy, and may have started out the same way, but it’s turned into a must-watch fun little mystery. Sadly, only the two hour finale is left.
Rock of Love Bus/Real Chance at Love Charm School- Let’s be honest, the only reason this particular VH1 show would have made the list is because it’s the show they’re airing right now. VH1 is always appointment TV for me, and it just didn’t feel right listing this one just because it happens to be on right now.
All that being said, and acknowledging Psych, which would have made this list but doesn’t start airing until much later this summer (Boo! Hiss!), let’s get down to business, shall we?
True Blood
Sundays, 9PM, HBO
About a week or two before the second season started airing, I watched the premiere of season 1. I managed to race through all of season 1 with days to spare before season 2 premiered. I shouldn’t say managed, actually, I should say thoroughly enjoyed. This show is dark, hilarious, sultry, and just plain entertaining. I mean, I should remind everyone like I love supernatural stuff, but I still think this show is just downright fun to watch.
What’s really interesting to me about True Blood, though, is how much more I care about the rest of the world of Bon Temps than about Sookie and Bill. They’re a little bit meh for me, I’d much rather focus on Tara, Lafayette, Sam, Hoyt, Jessica, Eric, Maryann, the rest of the Fangtasia crew, even people like Arlene and Terry Bellefleur. It’s just an utterly fascinating and gripping world.
Plus, the mysteries are fantastic. I’ve never read the books (I’m only slightly tempted too now, I’m not a big reader, what with being a ridiculous TV addict and all), which means I don’t know what’s coming (OK, well, slightly. I occasionally peek at spoilers) Each week I’m trying to figure out how things are going to play out, what’s coming next for these characters. It’s a show I want to immerse myself in. And it has become absolutely must-watch viewing for me. Can’t wait to see what happens next. And what in the hell is Maryann?
Thursday, June 25, 2009
So You Think You Can Dance 6/25- The 16 Lose 2
Hey Folks,
So, it’s top 16 results night. I gotta say, like most, I wasn’t all too impressed with last night. There were a few great couples (why do I feel like Melissa and Ade aren’t getting the fan love that they deserve?), and, um, one terrible guest judge. Going into tonight, I see the lonely stool of eliminated depression in Jonathan and Karla’s futures, simply because Jonathan stunk more than Asuka and the show’s not gonna get rid of two of its remaining three ballroomers in one fell swoop. That being said, I’m not gonna be surprised if this is the end of Caitlin’s run either. Because this recap is not all about the booty, but rather all about SYTYCD’s top 16 results show, lets get to discussing that, shall we?
Note: This is the slightly abridged version of the recap. For a fuller recap, head to sytycd.ca
Oh hey, remember how yesterday I said Cat was on an outfit hot streak? Yeah, well that ends tonight, with a pantsuit stolen from a Florida retiree circa 1973. Tonight’s opening routine is ballroom-ish, which I can’t remember them ever doing before. And my god is it sultry. Like, the first 30 seconds are all “I wanna be all up on you” looks. And then there’s that wet-outfit contest segment in the beginning. Ade, Karla, Melissa, Brandon, and Janette stand out. And Jeanine certainly stands out in the sultry, because she looks damn good during the wet part. Apparently, it was a collaboration between NappyTabs and Season 2’s Dmitry. I can totally see the mixture in there retroactively. Toni Basil, missing the hat, the only interesting thing about her from last night, is back along with Mary and Nigel. The show addresses Michael Jackson’s death (along with Ed McMahon and Farrah Fawcett). Nigel kind of makes it more about himself a little bit than the dead people (at least during Farrah’s part). Or maybe it’s just me? Nigel cites “Black and White” as the inspiration for the show. We then watch the Thriller video into commercial, which is always welcome for me. Because Thriller is awesome. If you disagree, you’re an idiot.
The first five couples are welcomed to the stage. I don’t know why they broke them 5-3 versus 4-4, but whatever. Asuka and Vitolio are first and they totally deserve to be in the bottom 3 for that. Asuka in particular. Which is where Cat deservedly sends them. Janette and Brandon are next. Oh look, Toni Basil says street during their video package. Whoodathunkit. Anyways, they’re safe. Good. Randi and Evan are next and these two are adorable looking together. I like the piece a lot more watching the parts during the video package. Methinks I’ll have to go back and rewatch it. They’re safe, or as Cat says, “the butt made the cut.” Jeanine and Philip are next. The routine still isn’t fantastic. They’re safe too. Phil’s fanbase must really be voting in droves. Melissa and Ade are last of this group and they best not be in the bottom. I mean, I really doubt they’d get rid of either of these two tonight, but I thought the same about Max last week. But they’re safe! Huzzah! And if you haven’t figured it out, these are the two I’m really rooting for. Go Adessa!
The remaining three couples are now on stage. Karla and Jonathan are first and wow, he’s even worse looking at it again. They best be in the bottom three. And good, they are. He really deserves to go tonight. Jason and Caitlin are next, and I’m totally not gonna be surprised to see them in the bottom. We have to wait and relive Kupono and Kayla before we hear results though. The final couple rounding out the bottom three is Caitlin and Jason, and, continuing a trend this season, Kupono and Kayla are way too in-your-face about celebrating their safety in front of the bottom three couples. Mary reminds the bottom dancers how many dancers they beat to be there. Toni basically says all three deserve to be in the bottom. Nigel makes Toni get mean. And you know, it’s probably the most interesting she’s been all week. Save for her choice of that hat.
Tonight’s stars of dance (which I accidentally just typoed as satyrs of dance, which would be so much more interesting), is a group of kid hip-hop dancers, the “Rage Boys Crew”. There are some stand out kids and some who just kind of do the moves. By the way, I absolutely don’t feel bad about dissing kids in this recap, just so you know. I mean, they’re all better than I would be, but I’m not putting myself out there on a dancing program, you know? There are a bunch that are really good though. So to recap, I don’t hate all kids, just those that can’t dance well. Cat gets down on her knees and kind of bows down to them.
Dance For Your Lives! DANCE!
Asuka- It’s not as good as her jive solo from week one. This one’s all about doing her sex kitten thing. I’m also pretty sure Cat just flat out called her Oscar.
Vitolio- This. Is. Awesome. This solo is all leaps and grace. Like, there should be no way he goes home after this.
Karla- Karla is, actually, really good for me. I like her movements, I think I maybe even understand what she’s trying to get across. It certainly makes me wonder how much I’d like her if she had a better partner.
Jonathan- Shockingly enough, his solo is actually pretty good too. I mean, it’s mostly tricks and some fancy footwork, and I doubt it’s enough to save him tonight, but it’s a high note to go out on.
Caitlin- Caitlin’s solo is pretty to look at, and it seems graceful. There’s some awesome leg stuff and a great back handstand leap thing. I’m not entirely sure if it’ll save her though.
Jason- Ok, well this is most definitely the final nail in Jonathan’s coffin. Jason is an amazing soloist and, to quote Shankers, so SYTYCD.
The judges disappear backstage, and I kind of hope Toni Basil stays there. Tonight’s musical act is The Veronicas, performing “Take Me On The Floor.” There’s something immediately off about the sound mix, because the lead’s being drowned out by backing percussion. She also repeatedly fusses with her earpiece. These girls look like junkies, but they do sing better than them. The performance is still kind of anemic though. And yet is still miles better than the last two trainwrecks of “performers.” Their back-up dancers are also pretty good. Wait, but one of the Veronicas really looks half-asleep. I’m still thoroughly depressed by the musical “stars” this show has been giving us. Honestly, where are those dancing prostitutes when you need them? At least they know how to put on a show.
SIDE NOTE: How much do you want to bet that like halfway through “More to Love” they introduce a bunch of skinny girls to spice it up? Because FOX is cruel like that. Also, I notice I am writing oodles of side notes on this show. Which is surprising, considering I have no interest whatsoever in watching it.
The girls results are up first, and the judges are unanimous. The judges feel Caitlin’s growing confidence and think she gave the best solo tonight. I’d say at least two boys were better than her, but whatever. Karla is called up next and they felt desperation in her and saw lots of technical flubs in her solo. They love Asuka’s beauty and how much she gives in her performances, but they feel she’s not growing, and she’s going home tonight. Which means the show really is getting rid of two more ballroomers since Jonathan has to be going home tonight, right? Right?
Well, it won’t take me long to find out since it’s the boys turn to find out their fates. They are not unanimous tonight, to which, what the what? How is it not unanimous that Jonathan has to go tonight. They feel Vitolio doesn’t deliver on his promises. They think Jonathan shined last week but was disastrous last night and they wanted more than just gymnastics tonight. They thought Jason was desperate this week, to which, again, what the what? But apparently, he was good enough to get through. The person staying tonight is Vitolio, to which I say, why the hell were the judges questioning this? Jonathan’s exit package reminds me of their contemporary, which doesn’t look as good on second watch. Cat plugs a rebroadcast of this past season of Idol’s Michael Jackson week next Monday before wishing us all goodnight. Well, I have to say, I would probably identify these two as the weakest remaining in their respective genders, so I have no problem with tonight’s results. My only question? Who in the hell voted to keep Jonathan? Would you have?
So, it’s top 16 results night. I gotta say, like most, I wasn’t all too impressed with last night. There were a few great couples (why do I feel like Melissa and Ade aren’t getting the fan love that they deserve?), and, um, one terrible guest judge. Going into tonight, I see the lonely stool of eliminated depression in Jonathan and Karla’s futures, simply because Jonathan stunk more than Asuka and the show’s not gonna get rid of two of its remaining three ballroomers in one fell swoop. That being said, I’m not gonna be surprised if this is the end of Caitlin’s run either. Because this recap is not all about the booty, but rather all about SYTYCD’s top 16 results show, lets get to discussing that, shall we?
Note: This is the slightly abridged version of the recap. For a fuller recap, head to sytycd.ca
Oh hey, remember how yesterday I said Cat was on an outfit hot streak? Yeah, well that ends tonight, with a pantsuit stolen from a Florida retiree circa 1973. Tonight’s opening routine is ballroom-ish, which I can’t remember them ever doing before. And my god is it sultry. Like, the first 30 seconds are all “I wanna be all up on you” looks. And then there’s that wet-outfit contest segment in the beginning. Ade, Karla, Melissa, Brandon, and Janette stand out. And Jeanine certainly stands out in the sultry, because she looks damn good during the wet part. Apparently, it was a collaboration between NappyTabs and Season 2’s Dmitry. I can totally see the mixture in there retroactively. Toni Basil, missing the hat, the only interesting thing about her from last night, is back along with Mary and Nigel. The show addresses Michael Jackson’s death (along with Ed McMahon and Farrah Fawcett). Nigel kind of makes it more about himself a little bit than the dead people (at least during Farrah’s part). Or maybe it’s just me? Nigel cites “Black and White” as the inspiration for the show. We then watch the Thriller video into commercial, which is always welcome for me. Because Thriller is awesome. If you disagree, you’re an idiot.
The first five couples are welcomed to the stage. I don’t know why they broke them 5-3 versus 4-4, but whatever. Asuka and Vitolio are first and they totally deserve to be in the bottom 3 for that. Asuka in particular. Which is where Cat deservedly sends them. Janette and Brandon are next. Oh look, Toni Basil says street during their video package. Whoodathunkit. Anyways, they’re safe. Good. Randi and Evan are next and these two are adorable looking together. I like the piece a lot more watching the parts during the video package. Methinks I’ll have to go back and rewatch it. They’re safe, or as Cat says, “the butt made the cut.” Jeanine and Philip are next. The routine still isn’t fantastic. They’re safe too. Phil’s fanbase must really be voting in droves. Melissa and Ade are last of this group and they best not be in the bottom. I mean, I really doubt they’d get rid of either of these two tonight, but I thought the same about Max last week. But they’re safe! Huzzah! And if you haven’t figured it out, these are the two I’m really rooting for. Go Adessa!
The remaining three couples are now on stage. Karla and Jonathan are first and wow, he’s even worse looking at it again. They best be in the bottom three. And good, they are. He really deserves to go tonight. Jason and Caitlin are next, and I’m totally not gonna be surprised to see them in the bottom. We have to wait and relive Kupono and Kayla before we hear results though. The final couple rounding out the bottom three is Caitlin and Jason, and, continuing a trend this season, Kupono and Kayla are way too in-your-face about celebrating their safety in front of the bottom three couples. Mary reminds the bottom dancers how many dancers they beat to be there. Toni basically says all three deserve to be in the bottom. Nigel makes Toni get mean. And you know, it’s probably the most interesting she’s been all week. Save for her choice of that hat.
Tonight’s stars of dance (which I accidentally just typoed as satyrs of dance, which would be so much more interesting), is a group of kid hip-hop dancers, the “Rage Boys Crew”. There are some stand out kids and some who just kind of do the moves. By the way, I absolutely don’t feel bad about dissing kids in this recap, just so you know. I mean, they’re all better than I would be, but I’m not putting myself out there on a dancing program, you know? There are a bunch that are really good though. So to recap, I don’t hate all kids, just those that can’t dance well. Cat gets down on her knees and kind of bows down to them.
Dance For Your Lives! DANCE!
Asuka- It’s not as good as her jive solo from week one. This one’s all about doing her sex kitten thing. I’m also pretty sure Cat just flat out called her Oscar.
Vitolio- This. Is. Awesome. This solo is all leaps and grace. Like, there should be no way he goes home after this.
Karla- Karla is, actually, really good for me. I like her movements, I think I maybe even understand what she’s trying to get across. It certainly makes me wonder how much I’d like her if she had a better partner.
Jonathan- Shockingly enough, his solo is actually pretty good too. I mean, it’s mostly tricks and some fancy footwork, and I doubt it’s enough to save him tonight, but it’s a high note to go out on.
Caitlin- Caitlin’s solo is pretty to look at, and it seems graceful. There’s some awesome leg stuff and a great back handstand leap thing. I’m not entirely sure if it’ll save her though.
Jason- Ok, well this is most definitely the final nail in Jonathan’s coffin. Jason is an amazing soloist and, to quote Shankers, so SYTYCD.
The judges disappear backstage, and I kind of hope Toni Basil stays there. Tonight’s musical act is The Veronicas, performing “Take Me On The Floor.” There’s something immediately off about the sound mix, because the lead’s being drowned out by backing percussion. She also repeatedly fusses with her earpiece. These girls look like junkies, but they do sing better than them. The performance is still kind of anemic though. And yet is still miles better than the last two trainwrecks of “performers.” Their back-up dancers are also pretty good. Wait, but one of the Veronicas really looks half-asleep. I’m still thoroughly depressed by the musical “stars” this show has been giving us. Honestly, where are those dancing prostitutes when you need them? At least they know how to put on a show.
SIDE NOTE: How much do you want to bet that like halfway through “More to Love” they introduce a bunch of skinny girls to spice it up? Because FOX is cruel like that. Also, I notice I am writing oodles of side notes on this show. Which is surprising, considering I have no interest whatsoever in watching it.
The girls results are up first, and the judges are unanimous. The judges feel Caitlin’s growing confidence and think she gave the best solo tonight. I’d say at least two boys were better than her, but whatever. Karla is called up next and they felt desperation in her and saw lots of technical flubs in her solo. They love Asuka’s beauty and how much she gives in her performances, but they feel she’s not growing, and she’s going home tonight. Which means the show really is getting rid of two more ballroomers since Jonathan has to be going home tonight, right? Right?
Well, it won’t take me long to find out since it’s the boys turn to find out their fates. They are not unanimous tonight, to which, what the what? How is it not unanimous that Jonathan has to go tonight. They feel Vitolio doesn’t deliver on his promises. They think Jonathan shined last week but was disastrous last night and they wanted more than just gymnastics tonight. They thought Jason was desperate this week, to which, again, what the what? But apparently, he was good enough to get through. The person staying tonight is Vitolio, to which I say, why the hell were the judges questioning this? Jonathan’s exit package reminds me of their contemporary, which doesn’t look as good on second watch. Cat plugs a rebroadcast of this past season of Idol’s Michael Jackson week next Monday before wishing us all goodnight. Well, I have to say, I would probably identify these two as the weakest remaining in their respective genders, so I have no problem with tonight’s results. My only question? Who in the hell voted to keep Jonathan? Would you have?
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
So You Think You Can Dance 6/24- The Top 16 Perform
Hey Folks,
So, it’s top 16 night! Which gives us another 8 performances on which to pick who our favorites are and who we kinda sorta maybe think shouldn’t be there much longer (cough Philip cough). I know last week some people found my claim of Mia’s “Higher Ground” as being superior to Wade’s “Ramalama Bang Bang” to be dubious to say the least, but the more I watch it, the more I’m tempted to stand by my statement. It’s just soooooo grood. Which is a combination of great and good, for those who are not familiar with the TeenGirl Squad. But what “Higher Ground” has illuminated for me is that this season has been severely lacking in the Mia department. I wonder if she’s gonna have a reduced role this season or something. I know she’s doing one routine tonight (and none of you better complain about spoilers since your reading a recap), but that still seems like an oddly small amount of Mia for being three weeks into the season. Are you guys feeling a Vitamin Mia deficiency? Anyhoo, on to the dancing! Tonight’s Jidges are Nigel, Mary, and Toni “Oh Mickey You So Fine, You So Fine You Blow My Mind Hey Mickey” Basil.
Note: This is the beshortened recap. For the full version, head to sytycd.ca
Karla and Jonathan- They’ve got a Dave Scott hip-hop. And, oooh. He’s just awful. Like, save one trick, it’s Matt Dorame doing hip-hop bad. Karla tries her best to hold it together, but she’s just fighting a losing battle. It’s saying something when they get the biggest screams for nailing a simple move. Nigel felt it lacked a necessary danger. He bets the audience they’ll be in the bottom three. Someone is wearing their cranky pants below the judging table tonight. Mary felt no power and it wasn’t in the right groove. It felt store-bought to Toni. Karla accidentally holds up a two instead of a one. Good job Karla.
Asuka and Vitolio- They’ve got a Mandy Moore jazz. I’m just… not getting much out of this. Asuka seems tentative in most everything she does, and she has some weak leaps in there. Vitolio does better, but I’m not connecting to him at all. Remember all those Showgirls references I was making during the audition weeks? Well, this performance would have perfectly suited to Nomi Malone. And Asuka, well, she’s kind of no Nomi Malone. Uncharacteristically weak for Mandy. Nigel calls it fantastic. Mary thought it was good but not breathtaking. Toni tells them not to let their technique get in the way of their emotions.
Melissa and Ade- They’ve got a Tony Meredith rumba. Well, this is miles better than anything else we’ve seen tonight. I can’t even speak as to whether their technique is great because they’re so frickin’ connected and sultry that the emotion is being nailed and that’s drawing my focus. But it’s like 5 times better than tonight’s other routines. Melissa also looks great. Cat asks if anyone else feels as if they’re interrupting something. Cat also asks the audience to applaud Melissa’s half-an-outfit. She’s called a Goddess. And she looks vaguely Elizabeth Berkeley-ish. OMG, Showgirls is either taking over my brain or it’s a SYTYCD conspiracy. Nigel throws oodles of love their way. apologizes for that pun but throws oodles of love to both. Mary found it both unbelievable and believable, yet I somehow understand what she means. Toni calls it beautifully done. Also, I’m now officially calling it. Ade & Melissa=New Mark and Chelsie. Adessa for season 5!
Janette and Brandon- They’ve got tonight’s other Dave Scott hip-hop routine. FINALLY. GOOD HIP-HOP. Brandon nails it. Janette is a firecracker and deserves kudos forgoing out there in a leather corset, panties, and semi-fishnets with less leg covering. Which, by the way, she pulls off, because she’s a firecracker. But Brandon is buck. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not the best hip-hop the show’s seen, but its certainly the best of the season so far. Nigel though they worked it. Mary thought they hit it. They get a scream. Toni liked Dave’s strategic melding of rock into hip-hop. OK, Toni Basil, we get it, you’re street. Stop using that word.
Kayla and Kupono- Gotta say, I don’t think these two are gonna work, but who knows. They’ve got a Jean-Marc Genereaux (and France!) Viennese Waltz. But I’m pleasantly surprised because it actually works really well. It also helps that they’ve got possibly the least busy lighting and camera work of any number all season. I see moments of weakness, mainly in Kupono, but it’s certainly much better than those first two routines. Nigel thought it was very beautiful but isn’t going to make anyone stand up and heer. Mary found it elegant and flowing and puts them on the Hot Tamale train. Toni really liked it. Toni also maybe sorta revealed she doesn’t watch the show regularly, because she wasn’t sure this week was their first week together.
Randi and Evan- They’ve got a MIA MICHAELS ROUTINE! That’s all about the booty. But it’s Mia, so I’m just excited beyond. Randi is also wearing a “Unitard girl” shirt, which is awesome in so many ways. Unfortuantely, it’s just not that great. I mean, its still good. But it’s missing that zap that other Mia routines have had. Plus they are a bunch of noticeable mistakes including Evan coming really close to falling at one point. It was good, not great. It may have been felled for me by high expectations, but I don’t know. It just didn’t explode off the screen for me. Cat calls them cheeky. Nigel found it beautifully danced and followed through. Mary found them terrific and hypnotizing. Toni thinks they lived up to the choreography.
Caitlin and Jason- They’ve got a Jean Marc Genereaux (And still France!) Paso Doble. It’s all about fight this week. They dance it exceptionally well, it seems, but I don’t feel the connection between them or the anger. But the dancing itself is pretty freaking remarkable. Although I think their timing to the music is off by the end. Nigel thought there was no connection in their eyes but that they danced it fantastically. Mary thought it was strong, but found Jason’s posture and the characters were only good part of the time. Toni liked it. God, she’s an awful judge.
Jeanine and Philip- They’ve got a Tyce broadway. Ugh, I have low expectations. It’s… cute. And I actually like the choreography much more than I usually like Tyce’s choreography. But there’s an energy that I find lacking. Jeanine is cute as button though. And Philip’s pants appear to have split during the number. But there was something that didn’t work about it. It’s almost like the music just didn’t work or something. Mary loooooves that Phil’s pants have split. She finds it ever-so-hysterical. Nigel thinks Phil still needs to grow more. Mary thought Phil nailed the character but his technique needed work. Toni found it adorable.
My Rankings for the Night:
1) Melissa and Ade
2) Janette and Brandon
3) Kayla and Kupono
4) Randi and Evan
5 & 6) TIE- Jeanine and Philip AND Caitlin and Jason
7) Asuka and Vitolio
big jump
8) Karla and Jonathan
Who Should Be Worried: Karla and Jonathan are obvious. Asuka and Vitolio are also probably gonna be there. Either Jeanine and Philip or Caitlin and Jason will probably round out the group.
Who I’d Send Home: Jonathan and Asuka should go home this week.
Who Will Probably Go Home: Save a miracle, Jonathan is dunzo. I fear for Karla as well.
So, it’s top 16 night! Which gives us another 8 performances on which to pick who our favorites are and who we kinda sorta maybe think shouldn’t be there much longer (cough Philip cough). I know last week some people found my claim of Mia’s “Higher Ground” as being superior to Wade’s “Ramalama Bang Bang” to be dubious to say the least, but the more I watch it, the more I’m tempted to stand by my statement. It’s just soooooo grood. Which is a combination of great and good, for those who are not familiar with the TeenGirl Squad. But what “Higher Ground” has illuminated for me is that this season has been severely lacking in the Mia department. I wonder if she’s gonna have a reduced role this season or something. I know she’s doing one routine tonight (and none of you better complain about spoilers since your reading a recap), but that still seems like an oddly small amount of Mia for being three weeks into the season. Are you guys feeling a Vitamin Mia deficiency? Anyhoo, on to the dancing! Tonight’s Jidges are Nigel, Mary, and Toni “Oh Mickey You So Fine, You So Fine You Blow My Mind Hey Mickey” Basil.
Note: This is the beshortened recap. For the full version, head to sytycd.ca
Karla and Jonathan- They’ve got a Dave Scott hip-hop. And, oooh. He’s just awful. Like, save one trick, it’s Matt Dorame doing hip-hop bad. Karla tries her best to hold it together, but she’s just fighting a losing battle. It’s saying something when they get the biggest screams for nailing a simple move. Nigel felt it lacked a necessary danger. He bets the audience they’ll be in the bottom three. Someone is wearing their cranky pants below the judging table tonight. Mary felt no power and it wasn’t in the right groove. It felt store-bought to Toni. Karla accidentally holds up a two instead of a one. Good job Karla.
Asuka and Vitolio- They’ve got a Mandy Moore jazz. I’m just… not getting much out of this. Asuka seems tentative in most everything she does, and she has some weak leaps in there. Vitolio does better, but I’m not connecting to him at all. Remember all those Showgirls references I was making during the audition weeks? Well, this performance would have perfectly suited to Nomi Malone. And Asuka, well, she’s kind of no Nomi Malone. Uncharacteristically weak for Mandy. Nigel calls it fantastic. Mary thought it was good but not breathtaking. Toni tells them not to let their technique get in the way of their emotions.
Melissa and Ade- They’ve got a Tony Meredith rumba. Well, this is miles better than anything else we’ve seen tonight. I can’t even speak as to whether their technique is great because they’re so frickin’ connected and sultry that the emotion is being nailed and that’s drawing my focus. But it’s like 5 times better than tonight’s other routines. Melissa also looks great. Cat asks if anyone else feels as if they’re interrupting something. Cat also asks the audience to applaud Melissa’s half-an-outfit. She’s called a Goddess. And she looks vaguely Elizabeth Berkeley-ish. OMG, Showgirls is either taking over my brain or it’s a SYTYCD conspiracy. Nigel throws oodles of love their way. apologizes for that pun but throws oodles of love to both. Mary found it both unbelievable and believable, yet I somehow understand what she means. Toni calls it beautifully done. Also, I’m now officially calling it. Ade & Melissa=New Mark and Chelsie. Adessa for season 5!
Janette and Brandon- They’ve got tonight’s other Dave Scott hip-hop routine. FINALLY. GOOD HIP-HOP. Brandon nails it. Janette is a firecracker and deserves kudos forgoing out there in a leather corset, panties, and semi-fishnets with less leg covering. Which, by the way, she pulls off, because she’s a firecracker. But Brandon is buck. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not the best hip-hop the show’s seen, but its certainly the best of the season so far. Nigel though they worked it. Mary thought they hit it. They get a scream. Toni liked Dave’s strategic melding of rock into hip-hop. OK, Toni Basil, we get it, you’re street. Stop using that word.
Kayla and Kupono- Gotta say, I don’t think these two are gonna work, but who knows. They’ve got a Jean-Marc Genereaux (and France!) Viennese Waltz. But I’m pleasantly surprised because it actually works really well. It also helps that they’ve got possibly the least busy lighting and camera work of any number all season. I see moments of weakness, mainly in Kupono, but it’s certainly much better than those first two routines. Nigel thought it was very beautiful but isn’t going to make anyone stand up and heer. Mary found it elegant and flowing and puts them on the Hot Tamale train. Toni really liked it. Toni also maybe sorta revealed she doesn’t watch the show regularly, because she wasn’t sure this week was their first week together.
Randi and Evan- They’ve got a MIA MICHAELS ROUTINE! That’s all about the booty. But it’s Mia, so I’m just excited beyond. Randi is also wearing a “Unitard girl” shirt, which is awesome in so many ways. Unfortuantely, it’s just not that great. I mean, its still good. But it’s missing that zap that other Mia routines have had. Plus they are a bunch of noticeable mistakes including Evan coming really close to falling at one point. It was good, not great. It may have been felled for me by high expectations, but I don’t know. It just didn’t explode off the screen for me. Cat calls them cheeky. Nigel found it beautifully danced and followed through. Mary found them terrific and hypnotizing. Toni thinks they lived up to the choreography.
Caitlin and Jason- They’ve got a Jean Marc Genereaux (And still France!) Paso Doble. It’s all about fight this week. They dance it exceptionally well, it seems, but I don’t feel the connection between them or the anger. But the dancing itself is pretty freaking remarkable. Although I think their timing to the music is off by the end. Nigel thought there was no connection in their eyes but that they danced it fantastically. Mary thought it was strong, but found Jason’s posture and the characters were only good part of the time. Toni liked it. God, she’s an awful judge.
Jeanine and Philip- They’ve got a Tyce broadway. Ugh, I have low expectations. It’s… cute. And I actually like the choreography much more than I usually like Tyce’s choreography. But there’s an energy that I find lacking. Jeanine is cute as button though. And Philip’s pants appear to have split during the number. But there was something that didn’t work about it. It’s almost like the music just didn’t work or something. Mary loooooves that Phil’s pants have split. She finds it ever-so-hysterical. Nigel thinks Phil still needs to grow more. Mary thought Phil nailed the character but his technique needed work. Toni found it adorable.
My Rankings for the Night:
1) Melissa and Ade
2) Janette and Brandon
3) Kayla and Kupono
4) Randi and Evan
5 & 6) TIE- Jeanine and Philip AND Caitlin and Jason
7) Asuka and Vitolio
big jump
8) Karla and Jonathan
Who Should Be Worried: Karla and Jonathan are obvious. Asuka and Vitolio are also probably gonna be there. Either Jeanine and Philip or Caitlin and Jason will probably round out the group.
Who I’d Send Home: Jonathan and Asuka should go home this week.
Who Will Probably Go Home: Save a miracle, Jonathan is dunzo. I fear for Karla as well.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
So You Think You Can Dance 6/18- 18 Minus Two
Hey folks,
Well, it’s time to say goodbye to another two dancers. Like I said in my recap last night, I’m kind of clueless as to who’s gonna be packing their bags tonight. If I had to venture a guess, Kupono and Asuka are probably done for, which would make me 0 for 2 in Fantasy SYTYCD. What makes me wonder about this poor cousin theory is that I remember last season, at Top 18 week, there were still enough dancers that could clearly be cut without losing lots of potential (cough cough Susie “Cannon Fodder” Garcia cough cough). This week, it’s gonna be kind of tough to pick out anyone who is noticeably weaker than the rest. I can’t promise oodles of funny or wit tonight, since I’m in a little bit of a heinous mood, but I’m gonna try my darndest for you guys tonight. However, just like Mia Michaels, I like to cut (although what I like to cut is long lines, not dancers), so lets trudge forward, shall we?
Note: This is the abridged recap. For the full version, shake a tail feather over to sytycd.ca
Cat is in a completely white pantsuit. It’s… blah. Usually from Cat, I expect greatness or great-terribleness. This falls in that in between chasm of mediocrity. The top 18 is a Mia routine and everyone has what look like Maori tribal tattoos painted on to their faces. It’s… like jaw-droppingly fantastic. I can say in no uncertain words that this season is gonna have turn something incredible in order to knock this off the list of most memorable numbers. I’d go so far as to say that it’s maybe one of my favorite routines EVER by Mia Michaels. It’s just 150% full of win. I can’t even pick out outstanding individuals, because that routine was so good it made EVERYONE seem awesome. Ade, Jason, Brandon, Janette, and Jeanine may stand out just a smidge above the others, but everyone rocks it.
We immediately (seriously, it’s like 5 minutes into the broadcast right now) get results. Ade and Melissa, Jason and Caitlin, and Phil and Jeanine are brought out. Well, I think it’s pretty clear which couple’s in the bottom here. No surprise, Jason and Caitlin are sent straight to the bottom three, do not pass go, prepare your solo.
When we come back, the next three couples on stage are Brandon and Janette, Jonathan and Karla, and Kupono and Ashley. Again, no surprise when it turns out that Kupono and Ashley are the bottom three couple in this group. Jonathan and Karla maybe celebrate a bit too much right in Ashley and Kupono’s face for my liking. Lil’ C is shocked, yet in the middle about it, because he thought this week showed their vulnerability in a style outside their own.
Side Note: I just rewatched the Mia routine over the commercial. Yeah, I might even go so far as to say it challenges Ramalama Bang Bang from season 2 as my favorite group routine ever. I love it THAT much.
The final three couples are up on stage, but before that, we’re all given a treat of Evan’s brother Ryan auditioning in LA for season 6. And, shocker, he makes it to Vegas. Evan apparently didn’t know, or so he makes hand gestures. The final couple gracing the bottom three is… Kayla and Max? What the What? . Vitolio, just like Jonathan/Karla, over-congratulates himself in Kayla and Max’s face. In fairness, though, the look of Stank emanating from Kayla when she found out her bottom three berth was not pretty. Humbleness, Ms. Rodamski, along with that talent, that’s what we’ll love you for. Look at the all the winners/favorites. They were all pretty humble. Nigel says America must not have gotten Brian Friedman’s choreo.
Tonight’s “World of Dance” dancer is a true Indian/Bollywood dancer (Ok, completely not Bollywood, but more traditional Indian. Or maybe not), whose name goes by too fast for me to catch. It’s good, better than the anemic Argentine tango from last week, but it’s still not as good as I would expect from a “stars of dance” routine.
Also, I just realized, can I get a HALLELUJAH that the creepy, creepy, CREEPY Snuggle the Bear is no longer asking America to dance for him and then let him kill them while they sleep?
Going into the solos, I think Ashley and Max/Kupono are probably in trouble. Kayla, and I kinda think Jason, are guaranteed safety.
It’s Soloin’ Time:
Caitlin: It’s simple, but very pretty and I’m pretty sure I feel exactly what she wants me to feel, so I’d call it a definite success. Better than all three girl solos last week, for sure.
Jason: Jason’s also very good, and, as Shankers said, he is so SYTYCD. Also should be good enough to keep him around for another week. He’s got a bunch of great leaps.
Ashley: It’s… good. Certainly sultry. But I thought Caitlin was better. She spent a few seconds just standing against the banister. That’s not the best way to spend your time. I may actually get one right this week in FSYTYCD.
Kupono: It’s also good, but not fantastic. Jason was certainly better. Cat doesn’t want him to go because she wants to see more of his outfits. That’s not a great endorsement Cat. He also doesn’t know how to manage his time very well because he takes a few seconds to start and clearly ends a second early.
Kayla: I gotta say, it’s not the best solo ever. It looks like a lot of leaps with some dancing in between. But she’s definitely good enough to be kept around.
Max: Max is soloing to Footloose. So I’m already biased to like it. His footwork is also Phe-Nom-En-Ol. He should definitely stay around.
Tonight’s musical guest is Kristinia DeBarge. It’s your typical pop-strumpet pop song. Which is to say its mildly catchy, has a decent beat, but will utterly be forgettable. I do have to giver her credit though, she is actually kind of dancing, and her back-up dancers are by no means bad, unlike last week.
We’re back and it’s results time. The girls are up first. It was not unanimous on either gender tonight. They all agree that if it were up to them, they wouldn’t lose any of this 6. But they’re not gonna change the rules of the competition. They thought Caitlin had great quality of movement and control, she’s safe. They thought Ashley had Hollywood glamour but thought her solo had no substance. They know what a great dancer Kayla is, but they didn’t think she proved that with a crowded solo and she needs to pull it back. Ashley is going home tonight. We get her recap package. In all honesty, I’m probably not going to miss her, but she wasn’t the weakest girl in this pack. It does suck that she tried for four seasons only to get cut second though. Jeanine looks flabbergasted in the pit.
The boys are next. Jason is first, and they found his solo to be exceptionally strong and thinks it’s the best solo of the season. He’s immediately sent to the pit. They felt Kupono also lacked substance, but they liked that he is different and an intelligent dancer who can take on characters. They think Max is incredibly hard-working and know that he is restricted by his ballroom-ness in solos. And yet, Max is the one going home tonight. Sorry, but especially after the solos, that was the wrong decision judges. Again, I didn’t love him, but considering he was the best last night and his solo tonight was really good, I’d rank this as higher up on the SYTYCD injustice scale. It also begs the question who in the hell is going to cook for these people now? They need their strength, people!
Well, folks, what did you think? Was Max unfairly shafted? Did Ashley not seem to really care anymore, as my viewing partner thinks? Was that Mia Michaels routine not Banoodles to the Buck power? And do you feel, like I feel, that a Kayla/Kupono coupling sounds mildly disastrous?
Well, it’s time to say goodbye to another two dancers. Like I said in my recap last night, I’m kind of clueless as to who’s gonna be packing their bags tonight. If I had to venture a guess, Kupono and Asuka are probably done for, which would make me 0 for 2 in Fantasy SYTYCD. What makes me wonder about this poor cousin theory is that I remember last season, at Top 18 week, there were still enough dancers that could clearly be cut without losing lots of potential (cough cough Susie “Cannon Fodder” Garcia cough cough). This week, it’s gonna be kind of tough to pick out anyone who is noticeably weaker than the rest. I can’t promise oodles of funny or wit tonight, since I’m in a little bit of a heinous mood, but I’m gonna try my darndest for you guys tonight. However, just like Mia Michaels, I like to cut (although what I like to cut is long lines, not dancers), so lets trudge forward, shall we?
Note: This is the abridged recap. For the full version, shake a tail feather over to sytycd.ca
Cat is in a completely white pantsuit. It’s… blah. Usually from Cat, I expect greatness or great-terribleness. This falls in that in between chasm of mediocrity. The top 18 is a Mia routine and everyone has what look like Maori tribal tattoos painted on to their faces. It’s… like jaw-droppingly fantastic. I can say in no uncertain words that this season is gonna have turn something incredible in order to knock this off the list of most memorable numbers. I’d go so far as to say that it’s maybe one of my favorite routines EVER by Mia Michaels. It’s just 150% full of win. I can’t even pick out outstanding individuals, because that routine was so good it made EVERYONE seem awesome. Ade, Jason, Brandon, Janette, and Jeanine may stand out just a smidge above the others, but everyone rocks it.
We immediately (seriously, it’s like 5 minutes into the broadcast right now) get results. Ade and Melissa, Jason and Caitlin, and Phil and Jeanine are brought out. Well, I think it’s pretty clear which couple’s in the bottom here. No surprise, Jason and Caitlin are sent straight to the bottom three, do not pass go, prepare your solo.
When we come back, the next three couples on stage are Brandon and Janette, Jonathan and Karla, and Kupono and Ashley. Again, no surprise when it turns out that Kupono and Ashley are the bottom three couple in this group. Jonathan and Karla maybe celebrate a bit too much right in Ashley and Kupono’s face for my liking. Lil’ C is shocked, yet in the middle about it, because he thought this week showed their vulnerability in a style outside their own.
Side Note: I just rewatched the Mia routine over the commercial. Yeah, I might even go so far as to say it challenges Ramalama Bang Bang from season 2 as my favorite group routine ever. I love it THAT much.
The final three couples are up on stage, but before that, we’re all given a treat of Evan’s brother Ryan auditioning in LA for season 6. And, shocker, he makes it to Vegas. Evan apparently didn’t know, or so he makes hand gestures. The final couple gracing the bottom three is… Kayla and Max? What the What? . Vitolio, just like Jonathan/Karla, over-congratulates himself in Kayla and Max’s face. In fairness, though, the look of Stank emanating from Kayla when she found out her bottom three berth was not pretty. Humbleness, Ms. Rodamski, along with that talent, that’s what we’ll love you for. Look at the all the winners/favorites. They were all pretty humble. Nigel says America must not have gotten Brian Friedman’s choreo.
Tonight’s “World of Dance” dancer is a true Indian/Bollywood dancer (Ok, completely not Bollywood, but more traditional Indian. Or maybe not), whose name goes by too fast for me to catch. It’s good, better than the anemic Argentine tango from last week, but it’s still not as good as I would expect from a “stars of dance” routine.
Also, I just realized, can I get a HALLELUJAH that the creepy, creepy, CREEPY Snuggle the Bear is no longer asking America to dance for him and then let him kill them while they sleep?
Going into the solos, I think Ashley and Max/Kupono are probably in trouble. Kayla, and I kinda think Jason, are guaranteed safety.
It’s Soloin’ Time:
Caitlin: It’s simple, but very pretty and I’m pretty sure I feel exactly what she wants me to feel, so I’d call it a definite success. Better than all three girl solos last week, for sure.
Jason: Jason’s also very good, and, as Shankers said, he is so SYTYCD. Also should be good enough to keep him around for another week. He’s got a bunch of great leaps.
Ashley: It’s… good. Certainly sultry. But I thought Caitlin was better. She spent a few seconds just standing against the banister. That’s not the best way to spend your time. I may actually get one right this week in FSYTYCD.
Kupono: It’s also good, but not fantastic. Jason was certainly better. Cat doesn’t want him to go because she wants to see more of his outfits. That’s not a great endorsement Cat. He also doesn’t know how to manage his time very well because he takes a few seconds to start and clearly ends a second early.
Kayla: I gotta say, it’s not the best solo ever. It looks like a lot of leaps with some dancing in between. But she’s definitely good enough to be kept around.
Max: Max is soloing to Footloose. So I’m already biased to like it. His footwork is also Phe-Nom-En-Ol. He should definitely stay around.
Tonight’s musical guest is Kristinia DeBarge. It’s your typical pop-strumpet pop song. Which is to say its mildly catchy, has a decent beat, but will utterly be forgettable. I do have to giver her credit though, she is actually kind of dancing, and her back-up dancers are by no means bad, unlike last week.
We’re back and it’s results time. The girls are up first. It was not unanimous on either gender tonight. They all agree that if it were up to them, they wouldn’t lose any of this 6. But they’re not gonna change the rules of the competition. They thought Caitlin had great quality of movement and control, she’s safe. They thought Ashley had Hollywood glamour but thought her solo had no substance. They know what a great dancer Kayla is, but they didn’t think she proved that with a crowded solo and she needs to pull it back. Ashley is going home tonight. We get her recap package. In all honesty, I’m probably not going to miss her, but she wasn’t the weakest girl in this pack. It does suck that she tried for four seasons only to get cut second though. Jeanine looks flabbergasted in the pit.
The boys are next. Jason is first, and they found his solo to be exceptionally strong and thinks it’s the best solo of the season. He’s immediately sent to the pit. They felt Kupono also lacked substance, but they liked that he is different and an intelligent dancer who can take on characters. They think Max is incredibly hard-working and know that he is restricted by his ballroom-ness in solos. And yet, Max is the one going home tonight. Sorry, but especially after the solos, that was the wrong decision judges. Again, I didn’t love him, but considering he was the best last night and his solo tonight was really good, I’d rank this as higher up on the SYTYCD injustice scale. It also begs the question who in the hell is going to cook for these people now? They need their strength, people!
Well, folks, what did you think? Was Max unfairly shafted? Did Ashley not seem to really care anymore, as my viewing partner thinks? Was that Mia Michaels routine not Banoodles to the Buck power? And do you feel, like I feel, that a Kayla/Kupono coupling sounds mildly disastrous?
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
So You Think You Can Dance 6/17- Top 18 Perform
Hey folks,
So, it’s top 18 night! Top 20 night was good, but I fear the “poor cousin” theory may actually prove true. I didn’t find any instant stars on top 20 night, like I did last year with Katee, Josh, and Mark among others. No one just jumped off the screen for me. However, I got high hopes for tonight. After looking at the style/choreographer spoilers for tonight, there’s at least one piece I’m super-mondo-mega excited for. I won’t say which one, but I’ll give you a hint: it’s not NOT Ade and Melissa doing a Sonja jazz. Was that too obvious? Whoops. However, the whole lineup looked like it could have plenty of banoodles moments. What’s that sound I hear? I think it’s the hot tamale train a-rolling down the tracks. Let’s hop on and ride it through top 18 night folks. All Aboard!
Note: This is the abridged recap. For my full ramblings, visit sytycd.ca
Cat looks like she came from some sort of Spanish themed toga party. It’s got weird frills. She still kinda pulls it off though. In our dancer intros, the standouts are Jeanine, Brandon, Evan, Kayla, Vitolio, Randi, Philip, and Janette. Phil’s flexibility scares me a little bit, not gonna lie. Cat lets us welcome the jidges, who consist of Nigel, Mary, and Lil’ C. Lil’ C is usually a pretty good judge, or at least provides us with some great turns of phrase. Then again, he did give off some stank while judging in Vegas. Cat makes a Mary Murphy botox joke, and Mary tries to convince us it was all a dream, and Cat says all her girlfriends love Mary more for it. Nigel tells the dancers not to show them what you can’t do, show them what you can do. I’m guessing that somewhere out there, Tony Bellisimo is saying “Ouch.”
Randi and Evan- They’ve got a Louis van Amstel jive. It’s FUN. Like, oodles and oodles and banoodles of fun. I see a long run on the show for them. Lil’ C sees a divinity in Evan and calls Randi a firecracker. Mary thinks it fell a little short, but was really good, Randi in particular. Nigel thinks Evan should have been better, but that they’re tremendous as a couple.
Melissa and Ade- They’ve got a Sonja Tayeh jazz routine. I have really high expectations going into it, and it meets them… mostly. I like it a lot. Maybe even a lot a lot. But it’s not Sonja’s best ever. It was like an 8.5 and I was hoping for a 9.5. Lil’ C thought it was buck and tells Ade that he is the competition. Cat chest bumps both dancers. Mary thought it was tough to find anything she didn’t like in it. Nigel though it allowed the dancers to show off their strength.
Caitlin and Jason- They’ve got a Shane Sparks hip-hop routine. Jason is much better, constantly drawing my focus, but it’s definitely a weaker effort this week. Lil’ C doesn’t love it, and didn’t see the choreography becoming a reality. Mary thought the chemistry didn’t work. Nigel thought they looked really good doing the routine.
Janette and Brandon- They’ve got a Doriana Sanchez disco routine. It’s fun, and is definitely one of the better disco routines the show has ever had. That being said, it’s still disco, so I’m not head over heels for it. Both dancers do very well though. Lil’ C thinks the primary objective of all obstacles is to induce labor so that progression can be born. Make of that what you will. He found it extremely, extremely amazing. Mary thinks they nailed it and gives them screams and a standing ovation. Nigel loves them and praises them all around.
Asuka and Vitolio- They’ve got a Louis van Amstel waltz. Louis wants Vitolio to dance with his pain on display. There’s one remarkable part where Vitolio swings Asuka in a circle, but I didn’t love the whole thing. I don’t see the pain coming through, but Asuka seems to be doing a pretty good job. Mary tears up and found Vitolio’s dancing to be very honest. Lil’ C thought his vulnerability balanced out the technical faults. Nigel thinks anyone who wasn’t touched by that routine is heartless. I have no problem being called Heartless. I’ll just pretend the Kanye song is about me.
Kayla and Max- They’ve got a Brian Friedman jazz routine. Welcome back Brian! . Um, this feels trashy and amazing. But I mean trashy in the best way possible. I love it. Utterly fantastic. Kayla, you miss, are banoodles. And Max, well, you’re doing a really good job of keeping up. Lil’ C thinks they picked up Brian’s vernacular. Mary keeps Kayla on the Hot Tamale train and deems Max a surprise. Nigel calls Kayla a front runner and thinks the pair of them are special.
Karla and Jonathan- They’ve got a Stacey Tookey contemporary. Stacy was a choreographer on SYTYCD Canada, but I’ve never seen any of her stuff. I like this alout. They’re both quite good, but Karla is probably slightly better. They give Cat her first chills of the season. Mary calls them the underdogs who have moved into the spotlight. Lil’ C thought it had the perfect balance of everything needed. Nigel thinks they recovered beautifully from last week.
Jeanine and Philip- They’ve got a Tony Meredith tango. Phil is stone faced throughout the routine, and as such is not really connecting with her. He feels a bit like he’s masquerading here to me. Jeanine, however, is fantastic. Mary applauds Phil for his attitude but kind of tears him apart on technique. Lil’ C thinks Jeanine was, as Mary called her, a hot mama. Nigel hopes that Phil’s fanbase can carry them through to next week. Way to not play favorites Nigel.
Ashley and Kupono- They’ve got a Shane Sparks hip-hop. I’m not feeling it all that much. It gets better as it goes on, but overall, it’s an eh. Mary thinks it wasn’t memorable. Lil C thinks Kupono dragged Ashley down. Nigel thought it stopped just when he was starting to enjoy it.
My Rankings for the Night:
1)Kayla and Max
2)Randi and Evan
3)Melissa and Ade
4)Karla and Jonathan
5)Janette and Brandon
6)Asuka and Vitolio
7)Jason and Caitlin
8)Jeanine and Philip
9)Ashley and Kupono
Who Should Be Worried: Ashley and Kupono faltered as predicted, and they should definitely be ready to dance for their lives tomorrow. Jason and Caitlin should be prepping too. Philip and Jeanine could well have the fan-base to keep them in, which leaves me stumped as to the final bottom 3 couple. Asuka and Vitolio are at risk if I wasn’t the only one who wasn’t feeling their waltz. Melissa and Ade could also even be at risk, as I could see that being a divisive routine. Or maybe the disco curse will bring down Brandon and Janette.
Who I’d Send Home: It’s a tough call this week. It’d probably be Kupono and Ashley. Or maybe Asuka.
Who Will Probably Go Home: In all honesty, I don’t know. But I think Kupono and Caitlin might be in trouble.
I’d say this was a pretty good top 18 week. I don’t feel as positive towards the poor cousin theory, so that’s something. What did you folks think?
So, it’s top 18 night! Top 20 night was good, but I fear the “poor cousin” theory may actually prove true. I didn’t find any instant stars on top 20 night, like I did last year with Katee, Josh, and Mark among others. No one just jumped off the screen for me. However, I got high hopes for tonight. After looking at the style/choreographer spoilers for tonight, there’s at least one piece I’m super-mondo-mega excited for. I won’t say which one, but I’ll give you a hint: it’s not NOT Ade and Melissa doing a Sonja jazz. Was that too obvious? Whoops. However, the whole lineup looked like it could have plenty of banoodles moments. What’s that sound I hear? I think it’s the hot tamale train a-rolling down the tracks. Let’s hop on and ride it through top 18 night folks. All Aboard!
Note: This is the abridged recap. For my full ramblings, visit sytycd.ca
Cat looks like she came from some sort of Spanish themed toga party. It’s got weird frills. She still kinda pulls it off though. In our dancer intros, the standouts are Jeanine, Brandon, Evan, Kayla, Vitolio, Randi, Philip, and Janette. Phil’s flexibility scares me a little bit, not gonna lie. Cat lets us welcome the jidges, who consist of Nigel, Mary, and Lil’ C. Lil’ C is usually a pretty good judge, or at least provides us with some great turns of phrase. Then again, he did give off some stank while judging in Vegas. Cat makes a Mary Murphy botox joke, and Mary tries to convince us it was all a dream, and Cat says all her girlfriends love Mary more for it. Nigel tells the dancers not to show them what you can’t do, show them what you can do. I’m guessing that somewhere out there, Tony Bellisimo is saying “Ouch.”
Randi and Evan- They’ve got a Louis van Amstel jive. It’s FUN. Like, oodles and oodles and banoodles of fun. I see a long run on the show for them. Lil’ C sees a divinity in Evan and calls Randi a firecracker. Mary thinks it fell a little short, but was really good, Randi in particular. Nigel thinks Evan should have been better, but that they’re tremendous as a couple.
Melissa and Ade- They’ve got a Sonja Tayeh jazz routine. I have really high expectations going into it, and it meets them… mostly. I like it a lot. Maybe even a lot a lot. But it’s not Sonja’s best ever. It was like an 8.5 and I was hoping for a 9.5. Lil’ C thought it was buck and tells Ade that he is the competition. Cat chest bumps both dancers. Mary thought it was tough to find anything she didn’t like in it. Nigel though it allowed the dancers to show off their strength.
Caitlin and Jason- They’ve got a Shane Sparks hip-hop routine. Jason is much better, constantly drawing my focus, but it’s definitely a weaker effort this week. Lil’ C doesn’t love it, and didn’t see the choreography becoming a reality. Mary thought the chemistry didn’t work. Nigel thought they looked really good doing the routine.
Janette and Brandon- They’ve got a Doriana Sanchez disco routine. It’s fun, and is definitely one of the better disco routines the show has ever had. That being said, it’s still disco, so I’m not head over heels for it. Both dancers do very well though. Lil’ C thinks the primary objective of all obstacles is to induce labor so that progression can be born. Make of that what you will. He found it extremely, extremely amazing. Mary thinks they nailed it and gives them screams and a standing ovation. Nigel loves them and praises them all around.
Asuka and Vitolio- They’ve got a Louis van Amstel waltz. Louis wants Vitolio to dance with his pain on display. There’s one remarkable part where Vitolio swings Asuka in a circle, but I didn’t love the whole thing. I don’t see the pain coming through, but Asuka seems to be doing a pretty good job. Mary tears up and found Vitolio’s dancing to be very honest. Lil’ C thought his vulnerability balanced out the technical faults. Nigel thinks anyone who wasn’t touched by that routine is heartless. I have no problem being called Heartless. I’ll just pretend the Kanye song is about me.
Kayla and Max- They’ve got a Brian Friedman jazz routine. Welcome back Brian! . Um, this feels trashy and amazing. But I mean trashy in the best way possible. I love it. Utterly fantastic. Kayla, you miss, are banoodles. And Max, well, you’re doing a really good job of keeping up. Lil’ C thinks they picked up Brian’s vernacular. Mary keeps Kayla on the Hot Tamale train and deems Max a surprise. Nigel calls Kayla a front runner and thinks the pair of them are special.
Karla and Jonathan- They’ve got a Stacey Tookey contemporary. Stacy was a choreographer on SYTYCD Canada, but I’ve never seen any of her stuff. I like this alout. They’re both quite good, but Karla is probably slightly better. They give Cat her first chills of the season. Mary calls them the underdogs who have moved into the spotlight. Lil’ C thought it had the perfect balance of everything needed. Nigel thinks they recovered beautifully from last week.
Jeanine and Philip- They’ve got a Tony Meredith tango. Phil is stone faced throughout the routine, and as such is not really connecting with her. He feels a bit like he’s masquerading here to me. Jeanine, however, is fantastic. Mary applauds Phil for his attitude but kind of tears him apart on technique. Lil’ C thinks Jeanine was, as Mary called her, a hot mama. Nigel hopes that Phil’s fanbase can carry them through to next week. Way to not play favorites Nigel.
Ashley and Kupono- They’ve got a Shane Sparks hip-hop. I’m not feeling it all that much. It gets better as it goes on, but overall, it’s an eh. Mary thinks it wasn’t memorable. Lil C thinks Kupono dragged Ashley down. Nigel thought it stopped just when he was starting to enjoy it.
My Rankings for the Night:
1)Kayla and Max
2)Randi and Evan
3)Melissa and Ade
4)Karla and Jonathan
5)Janette and Brandon
6)Asuka and Vitolio
7)Jason and Caitlin
8)Jeanine and Philip
9)Ashley and Kupono
Who Should Be Worried: Ashley and Kupono faltered as predicted, and they should definitely be ready to dance for their lives tomorrow. Jason and Caitlin should be prepping too. Philip and Jeanine could well have the fan-base to keep them in, which leaves me stumped as to the final bottom 3 couple. Asuka and Vitolio are at risk if I wasn’t the only one who wasn’t feeling their waltz. Melissa and Ade could also even be at risk, as I could see that being a divisive routine. Or maybe the disco curse will bring down Brandon and Janette.
Who I’d Send Home: It’s a tough call this week. It’d probably be Kupono and Ashley. Or maybe Asuka.
Who Will Probably Go Home: In all honesty, I don’t know. But I think Kupono and Caitlin might be in trouble.
I’d say this was a pretty good top 18 week. I don’t feel as positive towards the poor cousin theory, so that’s something. What did you folks think?
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