Is anybody else here watching the Next Food Network Star? First off, I
have to say that I love Top Chef alot more, but still enjoy the train-wreck
that is NFNS purely for entertainment value.
Last night's episode was especially fun. Alton Brown was the guest
judge/host. Right off the bat as he walked in he really seemed to NOT want to
be there. He told them all "I'll be your handler today". heh. Later, as they
were discussing their 5-minute tapes, he had his hand over his face and said
"can we send them all home and start over?" I felt bad for him, and it also
highlighted just exactly HOW good he is on Good Eats. It's not easy making a
tv show, but he sure makes it look easy.
It's an interesting contrast between these competitors and those on Top
Chef. Setting aside the fact that the two shows have totally different goals,
so therefore the competitors are from different backgrounds and strengths, you
can tell that this is a FN show. The competitors have weak resumes like
"homemaker" and "uniform delivery person". Most of them seem to be around
Sandra Lee's skill level in the kitchen. Instead of being fiercely competitive
like the guys on Top Chef, these guys are wishy-washy and ambivalent. JAG is
the only one who is really competitive.
And Amy. Sigh. She's cute, so I want to root for her, but she really
needs to get her medication adjusted or something. Bawling: "I'm so homesick.
I want to go home. I hate it here. Please let me go home."

Are you sure?

Yes.

Are you sure?

Well... No, not really. I do want to stick it out. Please let me stay.

Aside from that, I do enjoy the basic format of the show. I think it's
very appropriate that the competitions include lots of little camera tests.
Also the competitors should appreciate all the tips they're being given. I
wonder if they realize that it's also training them for hosting a tv show.

--
- Sharon
"Gravity... is a harsh mistress!"