The reality of Reality TV

[HejiraNYC]

The problem with scripted shows on television these days is that they are so unoriginal or are based on some tiresome gimmick that wears off very quickly. Sitcoms are the worst- all the characters are built around some variation of the wise-cracking snarky/sarcastic archetype with just enough of a character flaw to elicit derision and mockery from the other wise-cracking/sarcastic characters on the show. And I vomit in my mouth when I see all of these flawless, uber-attractive people on these shows bemoaning their inability to get dates or to get people to notice them. Puhlease! That being said, I am breathlessly awaiting the return of The Big C and Weeds on Showtime. Yes, Weeds is chock full of those wise-cracking/snarky characters, but the humor is sooo dark that it works.

I loves me some reality! And for whatever reason, Andy Cohen and Bravo know how it's done; I am not a big fan of the other networks. Every once in a while they crank out total unwatchable duds (e.g., Pregnant in Heels, It's a Brad Brad World, Million Dollar Design, Miami Social, Most Eligible: Dallas, Seven by Design, etc.). But the Housewives shows are totally infectious and I'm even loving the new Shahs of Sunset. Sometimes the "storylines" are mundane, but that's the nature of reality. I mean, do you think a scripted show would feature a scene of somone receiving a high colonic? I love the fact that sometimes it's just about two "friends" getting together and yentering it up and talking smack about other people. That's how it works in real life!