Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip - Page 3

Swaggs · 10-02-2006, 12:37 PM

I like the potential here, also.

If it can get its setting in place and make it enjoyable, they can add/subtract/replace the stars, much like a real sketch comedy does with its writers and players, and add some different dynamics to the show.

KWhit · 10-02-2006, 09:37 PM

I am a huge fan of Sorkin and I really like the show so far. Perry has done a great job and I really like his and Whitford's chemistry.

Two big thumbs up, so far.

LoneStarGirl · 10-02-2006, 10:05 PM

I missed tonight's episode but i really enjoyed the last two. Its hard for me to see Perry and not think Chandler.

Swaggs · 10-02-2006, 10:35 PM

I liked this week's episode better than last week's.

Spoiler:

Is D.L. Hughley's character gay? The scene w/ the "groupie" at the wrap party seemed awkward and I was not sure what to make of it.

ISiddiqui · 10-02-2006, 11:26 PM

Good episode this week. I like the interaction between Perry and Whitford more and more as this show goes on. The 'cast' is even pretty good so far. I'm sure it'll take the first season just to get us introduced to all of them in some detail.

Joe · 10-03-2006, 05:45 AM

They need to show less of the show.. if that makes sense.

cschex · 10-03-2006, 07:01 AM

Enjoyable episode, I thought, better than last week's. Did anyone else catch Lucy Davis (Dawn!) from the UK version of the Office as Danny's assistant in the opening scene. It might have been just the one cameo, but I hope she shows up again.

ThunderingHERD · 10-03-2006, 09:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Swaggs

I liked this week's episode better than last week's.

Spoiler:

Is D.L. Hughley's character gay? The scene w/ the "groupie" at the wrap party seemed awkward and I was not sure what to make of it.

Great point. That hadn't occurred to me, but you're probably right.

jonesz · 10-03-2006, 09:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ThunderingHERD

Great point. That hadn't occurred to me, but you're probably right.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Swaggs

I liked this week's episode better than last week's.

Spoiler:

Is D.L. Hughley's character gay? The scene w/ the "groupie" at the wrap party seemed awkward and I was not sure what to make of it.

It did seem awkward, but I saw it more as Hughley's character being a mentor. The guy, if it's the same scene I am thinking of, is actually one of the non "Big Three" actors at Studio 60. I took it more as Hughley putting him in line as a senior member.

Everytime I see that guy I always picture the Capital One ads with David Spade... I half expect him to run through the scene with his shirt on fire. I watch way too much TV..

ausonny · 10-03-2006, 12:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jonesz

It did seem awkward, but I saw it more as Hughley's character being a mentor. The guy, if it's the same scene I am thinking of, is actually one of the non "Big Three" actors at Studio 60. I took it more as Hughley putting him in line as a senior member.

Everytime I see that guy I always picture the Capital One ads with David Spade... I half expect him to run through the scene with his shirt on fire. I watch way too much TV..

That's a different scene, actually a different episode. The scene in question is when a blonde comes on to Hughley and it's sort of awkward.

JonInMiddleGA · 10-03-2006, 12:47 PM

http://www.medialifemagazine.com/art...ticle_7687.asp

NBC's 'Studio 60' in a ratings stumble
Much-praised drama loses 20 percent of 18-49s
By Toni Fitzgerald
Oct 3, 2006

“Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip” has been universally praised for its smart writing, great acting and biting satire. But it’s possible that the show is a bit too inside Hollywood for most viewers.

After strong initial sampling, the show has dipped a good deal over the last two outings. Last night’s third episode averaged a 3.5 adults 18-49 rating, according to Nielsen overnights, down 20 percent from last week’s 4.4 and 30 percent from a 5.0 for the Sept. 18 debut.

Despite strong retention for “Heroes” after last week’s debut, NBC fell behind CBS on Monday night for the first time this season, averaging a 4.2 rating and 11 share to the latter’s 4.6/11.

At 10 p.m., “Studio 60” lost 34 percent of lead-in “Heroes’” 5.3 average. It finished third in the timeslot behind CBS’s “CSI: Miami” and ABC’s “The Bachelor” premiere.

That’s hardly encouraging for the Aaron Sorkin-penned drama, which some media people praised as the best pilot they’d ever seen over the summer. Indeed, the quality of the show doesn’t seem to be the problem; nearly everyone agrees that all the parts are there.

It may simply be the subject matter. People outside of Hollywood don’t care about the entertainment business nearly as much as those inside it do, and shows about the industry don’t have a great track record. HBO’s “The Comeback” lasted just one season, and even “Entourage,” its much-buzzed-about show about a young actor, isn’t a top viewer draw.

The good news for NBC is that the show may now have found its core audience and could stop dipping. It fell just 6 percent from its first half hour to its second after double-digit declines in its first weeks. “Studio 60” has also performed quite well among the affluent demos who helped make Sorkin’s “West Wing” a hit.

The better news was that “Heroes” continued to look strong. Though it dipped 10 percent from last week’s 5.9, it continued to build audience in its second half hour and again won its timeslot.

larrymcg421 · 10-03-2006, 02:01 PM

I didn't see that scene as making Simon seem gay. I thought it meant he just wasn't interested in a one night stand. It's possible that he has a crush on Harriet.

Easy Mac · 10-03-2006, 06:50 PM

I haven't really been wowed by this show. Its ok, but I dunno, I still like Sports Night the best, then West Wing. This isn't in the same league for me.

ISiddiqui · 10-03-2006, 06:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by larrymcg421

I didn't see that scene as making Simon seem gay. I thought it meant he just wasn't interested in a one night stand. It's possible that he has a crush on Harriet.

Or he could have a wife/girlfriend at home. It isn't like we know about these peoples' personal lives very much. It'd be silly IMO for everyone to be single.

Draft Dodger · 10-03-2006, 07:01 PM

btw, I like Amanda Peet's character less and less every episode. just a complete wimp

Easy Mac · 10-03-2006, 07:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ISiddiqui

Or he could have a wife/girlfriend at home. It isn't like we know about these peoples' personal lives very much. It'd be silly IMO for everyone to be single.

come on, if a black guy doesn't sleep with a white woman, he has to be gay... hasn't tv taught you anything

ThunderingHERD · 10-03-2006, 07:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ISiddiqui

Or he could have a wife/girlfriend at home. It isn't like we know about these peoples' personal lives very much. It'd be silly IMO for everyone to be single.

My thinking is that for one of the leads, especially a black man, to be gay would create a lot of material for writers. I just figure Sorkin would love to tackle the gay black male vs. the network vs. middle america angle.

As for the idea that he turned it down because he is faithful to his wife/girlfriend: dramatically that's just not very interesting, and it's certainly not interesting enough to foreshadow in such a manner.

Brillig · 10-03-2006, 08:17 PM

Thoughts on episode 3... I do see this one as a step up from episode 2. Not a huge fan of the comedy-montage, but as long as they don't use it ever again, it works once. Some new dramatic tension in the developing relationship between Bradley Whitford and Amanda Peet, although who knows what'll happen there - it took the writers seven years to get him and Janel Maloney together

. The Tom Cruise impression was a LOL moment for me, I must admit. One problem with the ensemble show is that there are too many characters for every show to be about everyone, but on the other hand, you want to introduce all the characters as quickly as you can. Hopefully, the following episodes will be a little more focused and less scattershot.

An aside on Amanda Peet's character - I agree with Draft Dodger, the character is not being written as someone who credibly could be hired as a network president. Not strong enough, not confrontational enough, not confident enough. I think it was better in episode 2 "No one tells me what to put on my air," but it's been getting weaker. Now admittedly, she was having a pretty bad day in episode 3, but I guess we'll have to see.

Finally - it was a brilliant choice of music at the end of the episode - "Will you still love me tomorrow," captures the essential neurosis of network television, as well as reflecting the almost trite insecurity among performers. (Note Matt leaving the party in full swing, completely alone, decidedly *not* happy after a huge night.)

Swaggs · 10-03-2006, 08:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ThunderingHERD

As for the idea that he turned it down because he is faithful to his wife/girlfriend: dramatically that's just not very interesting, and it's certainly not interesting enough to foreshadow in such a manner.

Agreed.

The scene had to have been designed to set up a future plot point. I don't think it is to establish Simon's principles or maturity, but I guess that is possible. I think he passed on the groupie because he is either in the closet or has feelings for another main character. I dunno, I just thought it was an odd scene in the first place and then they kind of went back to it in the music montage, so I figure it must have some significance.

Celeval · 10-03-2006, 09:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Swaggs

Agreed.

The scene had to have been designed to set up a future plot point. I don't think it is to establish Simon's principles or maturity, but I guess that is possible. I think he passed on the groupie because he is either in the closet or has feelings for another main character. I dunno, I just thought it was an odd scene in the first place and then they kind of went back to it in the music montage, so I figure it must have some significance.

They did come back to it, briefly, when he set up the other of the three with the girl.

jbmagic · 10-03-2006, 10:37 PM

If you guys miss the 2nd episode you can watch it here.

http://www.nbc.com/Video/rewind/full...?show=studio60

sterlingice · 10-04-2006, 07:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Joe

They need to show less of the show.. if that makes sense.

Funny, as people were clamoring for that prior to this episode.

SI

Raiders Army · 10-04-2006, 07:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sterlingice

Funny, as people were clamoring for that prior to this episode.

SI

IMHO, the jokes aren't funny. The bear says "RAWR!" Not only that but the musical intro for the show (the fake show, not the real show) was painful and boring on the 2nd episode.

sterlingice · 10-04-2006, 07:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Raiders Army

IMHO, the jokes aren't funny. The bear says "RAWR!" Not only that but the musical intro for the show (the fake show, not the real show) was painful and boring on the 2nd episode.

I tend to agree. Sorkin's not really a "ha-ha" funny type of writer, tho he does have his moments. Anyone who's seen Sports Night knows that his stuff when put to a laugh track doesn't really work and that's just what SNL-esque jokes are supposed to kill with.

SI

Fidatelo · 10-04-2006, 07:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Raiders Army

IMHO, the jokes aren't funny. The bear says "RAWR!" Not only that but the musical intro for the show (the fake show, not the real show) was painful and boring on the 2nd episode.

This is the inherent problem with the entire concept. They are playing Matt up to be the funniest writer in hollywood, and then at times they have to actually show off his work. When they do, our expectations are gigantic, because this guy is hilarious right? Well, unless they have a real-life Matt on their writing staff, its going to be pretty tough to meet those audience expectations.

That said, I've watched all 3 episodes so far and feel pretty steeped about the show in general.

ISiddiqui · 10-04-2006, 07:49 AM

The bear joke wasn't supposed to be funny, that's why right after that someone said "She'll make it work". Though it sounds like it would be the kind of throw away joke you'd see on SNL's Weekend Update.

ThunderingHERD · 10-04-2006, 07:55 AM

I thought the Science Schmience bit was kind of funny. Other than the completely underwhelming Gilbert-&-Sullivan-parody grand opening sketch there hasn't been anything to undermine the internal reality that the show within the show is funny. I think they did a fairly good job at cutting the montage to suggest sketches that could be funny without actually having to write them funny

As for the bear says: "RARRR!", it sounds exactly like one of the terrible jokes you get on the Tina-Fey-era weekend update, so in that sense I think it was successful.

Draft Dodger · 10-04-2006, 08:26 AM

the guy doing the impressions was quite good

Swaggs · 10-04-2006, 09:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ISiddiqui

The bear joke wasn't supposed to be funny, that's why right after that someone said "She'll make it work". Though it sounds like it would be the kind of throw away joke you'd see on SNL's Weekend Update.

Agreed. I just thought that was thrown in to show how talented they think her character is.

BrianD · 10-04-2006, 09:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Raiders Army

IMHO, the jokes aren't funny. The bear says "RAWR!" Not only that but the musical intro for the show (the fake show, not the real show) was painful and boring on the 2nd episode.

*This is not directed at RA, but it seemed like a good place to start my mini-rant*

Judging by the falling ratings, I think many people agree with you. I think this is why only reality shows and formulaic CSI-type shows do well in this country. The musical intro may not have been fall-on-the-floor funny, but it really was quite clever. Sadly, much of America is probably not familiar with The Pirates of Penzance so they didn't get the appropriateness of using that song. Oh well, another smart show on its way out so we can have more room for CSI: Ottumwa and Dancing With People You May Have Seen On TV Once Or Twice Before.

vex · 10-08-2006, 10:15 AM

Finally caught up with this show. Absolutely love it. Can't wait for tomorrow's episode.

larrymcg421 · 10-08-2006, 03:54 PM

I liked the Gilbert and Sullivan bit. Especially the fake mixup with the "hundred dollar hooker's reacharound". I also thought Science Schmience was pretty funny. Then the little tiny bits were funny enough to suggest that the whole sketches might be funny. I'd like to see more of "Commedia del' Arte".

My dream is that they get really gutsy and do one episode that is just the show within the show. They'd have to get extended time and it would take alot of nerve to write full length sketches, but it would be very interesting.

As for the rest of the show, I'm digging it so far eventhough it's not yet quite as sharp as the best of Sports Night or West Wing.

Barkeep49 · 10-08-2006, 04:05 PM

I think they should do less showing us the actual show. It's easier to believe that things are funny when you're not actually seeing the funny.

Coop · 10-09-2006, 12:48 AM

I agree, they should stop showing the show. it's not funny at all

larrymcg421 · 10-10-2006, 01:12 AM

Tonight's episode was my favorite so far. It was the first one I thought really felt like the quality of Sports Night and West Wing. It especially reminded me of the Sports Night episodes where they were dealing with an on-air crisis.

"Bowels, Jeremy!!??"

Peregrine · 10-10-2006, 01:38 AM

I am liking this show more and more, but at the same time I'm getting more and more worried that it will be cancelled.

Barkeep49 · 10-10-2006, 07:32 AM

In my mind there is little doubt it'll be canceled. I also agree that of the three non-pilot episodes this was the best. Part of what made it the best, was that I believed, really for the first time, that these characters are funny people and that they are doing a funny television show. Not sure what exactly caused me to feel that way, but I definitely felt it.

KWhit · 10-10-2006, 07:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BrianD

*This is not directed at RA, but it seemed like a good place to start my mini-rant*

Judging by the falling ratings, I think many people agree with you. I think this is why only reality shows and formulaic CSI-type shows do well in this country. The musical intro may not have been fall-on-the-floor funny, but it really was quite clever. Sadly, much of America is probably not familiar with The Pirates of Penzance so they didn't get the appropriateness of using that song. Oh well, another smart show on its way out so we can have more room for CSI: Ottumwa and Dancing With People You May Have Seen On TV Once Or Twice Before.

I agree 100%. I'm not surprised that this isn't a top rated show. I think the show is kind of similar to the Commedia sketch from last week's episode (haven't seen last night's episode yet) - a lot of people won't get it, but those that do are going to freaking love it.

And Sorkin is actually a very funny writer, IMO. I once directed a play that he wrote that was hillarious - Hidden in this Picture. His other works have had funny moments as well. It will be interesting to see how the comedy progresses as the show goes on.

sterlingice · 10-10-2006, 08:01 AM

Easily the funniest of the episodes so far. Tho the contrast between the show and the show within the show is getting larger, not smaller. But the actual show feels like it's starting to hit its stride.

A minor quibble as I did get some Sorkin flashbacks while watching last night. The "punishment" thing- I knew what he was going to say a minute before he said it because Sorkin's done the same exact stupid (tired, whiny, east coast) bit in both Sports Night and West Wing. Thankfully he didn't drag it out like in the previous two. Also, we got more love for international cricket which he referenced in Sports Night for almost an entire episode.

SI

Crapshoot · 10-10-2006, 09:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sterlingice

Easily the funniest of the episodes so far. Tho the contrast between the show and the show within the show is getting larger, not smaller. But the actual show feels like it's starting to hit its stride.

A minor quibble as I did get some Sorkin flashbacks while watching last night. The "punishment" thing- I knew what he was going to say a minute before he said it because Sorkin's done the same exact stupid (tired, whiny, east coast) bit in both Sports Night and West Wing. Thankfully he didn't drag it out like in the previous two. Also, we got more love for international cricket which he referenced in Sports Night for almost an entire episode.

SI

Hey, I'm all for international cricket. Locks in the lucrative sub-continental audience (aka me, Nequa, Isiddiqui)

Ksyrup · 10-10-2006, 12:53 PM

FYI...

Fast National ratings for Monday, Oct. 9, 2006.

CBS' Monday sitcom swap may have benefited both 8 p.m. shows, as "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Class" helped to open a Monday night win.

Overall, CBS averaged a 9.4 rating/15 share, comfortably ahead of the 7.8/12 for second place NBC. ABC's 5.3/8 was good for third, nearly doubling up the 2.7/4 for FOX. Fifth place went to The CW, as the new network's comedy block did no better on Mondays than on Sundays with a 1.6/2.

CBS also won among adults 18-49, though the network's margin of victory was slimmer, doing a 4.8 rating to nip the 4.7 rating for NBC. ABC's 3.1 rating was third, leaving FOX's 1.3 rating and the 1.0 rating for The CW at the back of the pack.

NBC started in front with the 9.4/15 for "Deal or No Deal." CBS' "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Class" switched places this week and averaged a 6.4/10, as "The Class" actually improved slightly on its lead-in. ABC's "Wife Swap" was third with a 5.3/8, followed by FOX's repeat of "Prison Break." The CW's "Everybody Hates Chris" (1.9/3) and "All of Us" (1.6/2) had their Monday premieres.

CBS moved into the lead in the 9 p.m. hour with "Two and a Half Men" (10.9/16) and "The New Adventures of Old Christine" (9.0/13). NBC's "Heroes" was second with an 8.1/12, actually winning the hour among adults 18-49. ABC's "The Bachelor" was third, followed by "Justice," which had a 2.6/4 in its time period premiere. The CW was down slightly with "Girlfriends" and "The Game."

"CSI: Miami" delivered an 11.8/19 to help CBS close in first. NBC's "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip" continued to underperform with a 5.7/9, still better than the 5.0/8 for the season premiere of "What About Brian."

Ratings information is taken from fast national data, which includes live and same-day DVR viewing. All numbers are preliminary and subject to change.

rkmsuf · 10-10-2006, 12:55 PM

that show is toast

Vince · 10-10-2006, 01:46 PM

Bummer about the ratings. I finally caught this show last night, and really enjoyed it.

Raiders Army · 10-10-2006, 08:22 PM

FWIW, after a few beers this show is worse than I thought it was. There is no one that talks the way they do. I couldn't follow the dialogue (must be my puny brain on alcohol). The whole Matthew Perry/lackey banter leading up to him going to the Roxy was too fast and both actors barely let the other finish speaking before they jumped in.

I really want to like this show. I really do. Call me a mark, but there is nothing that grabs me about this show and pulls me in. I don't think they have enough time to set up the show...which is what I think they're doing now. They need to grab some cheap hooks and draw the audience in as opposed to a lot of throwaway, snappy, am-I-smart dialogue.

JonInMiddleGA · 10-10-2006, 08:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Raiders Army

... as opposed to a lot of throwaway, snappy, am-I-smart dialogue.

So basically you want them to get rid of Sorkin?
I mean, that's as much his trademark as anything IMO.

Sportsnight, which I enjoyed throughout its run, was often summed up by that description itself.

wade moore · 10-10-2006, 08:40 PM

Yeah, RA basically summed up why I like the show...

Man.. NBC really set it up for failure IMO by putting it against CSI: Miami which for some unknown reason gets great ratings... seems like there was something weaker they could put it up against..

I hope it stays on.. it seems that every year there is at least one show that I REALLY like (inJustice last year) that doesn't make it past one season...

primelord · 10-10-2006, 08:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Raiders Army

There is no one that talks the way they do.

Did you like Sports Night or The West Wing? That's how everyone talks in all Sorkin shows.

Edit: JIMGA beat me to it.

Raiders Army · 10-10-2006, 09:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by primelord

Did you like Sports Night or The West Wing? That's how everyone talks in all Sorkin shows.

Edit: JIMGA beat me to it.

Never watched either. I wanted to watch Sports Night but never knew when it was on...I guess I didn't want to watch it that bad. I didn't like the idea of a drama about the White House...real life provides the drama there.

sterlingice · 10-10-2006, 10:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JonInMiddleGA

So basically you want them to get rid of Sorkin?
I mean, that's as much his trademark as anything IMO.

Sportsnight, which I enjoyed throughout its run, was often summed up by that description itself.

There was a great quote back when Sorkin and Schlamme were more or less forced off of The West Wing that really showed what tv was all about (and unfortunately, I just can't find it right now). It was some NBC executive talking about how the show needed to essentially dumb down and get a bigger audience because "The Bachelor" was peeling viewers off of it.

SI

Swaggs · 10-10-2006, 10:26 PM

I still like it, but I don't really think the romance story line (between Perry and the blonde actress). They just don't seem to have that much chemistry, and really, I have more trouble buying into Perry than the actress.

I still like the show and hope it gets a fair shake, but I'm guessing if they get back together soon, we will be in for a short series.

10-02-2006, 12:37 PM	#101
Swaggs Coordinator Join Date: Oct 2000	I like the potential here, also. If it can get its setting in place and make it enjoyable, they can add/subtract/replace the stars, much like a real sketch comedy does with its writers and players, and add some different dynamics to the show. __________________ DOWN WITH HATTRICK!!! The RWBL Are you reading In The Bleachers?

10-02-2006, 10:35 PM	#104
Swaggs Coordinator Join Date: Oct 2000	I liked this week's episode better than last week's. Spoiler: Is D.L. Hughley's character gay? The scene w/ the "groupie" at the wrap party seemed awkward and I was not sure what to make of it. __________________ DOWN WITH HATTRICK!!! The RWBL Are you reading In The Bleachers?

10-02-2006, 11:26 PM	#105
ISiddiqui Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Decatur, GA	Good episode this week. I like the interaction between Perry and Whitford more and more as this show goes on. The 'cast' is even pretty good so far. I'm sure it'll take the first season just to get us introduced to all of them in some detail. __________________ "A prayer for the wild at heart, kept in cages" -Tennessee Williams

10-03-2006, 12:47 PM	#111
JonInMiddleGA Hall Of Famer Join Date: Nov 2000 Location: Behind Enemy Lines in Athens, GA	http://www.medialifemagazine.com/art...ticle_7687.asp NBC's 'Studio 60' in a ratings stumble Much-praised drama loses 20 percent of 18-49s By Toni Fitzgerald Oct 3, 2006 “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip” has been universally praised for its smart writing, great acting and biting satire. But it’s possible that the show is a bit too inside Hollywood for most viewers. After strong initial sampling, the show has dipped a good deal over the last two outings. Last night’s third episode averaged a 3.5 adults 18-49 rating, according to Nielsen overnights, down 20 percent from last week’s 4.4 and 30 percent from a 5.0 for the Sept. 18 debut. Despite strong retention for “Heroes” after last week’s debut, NBC fell behind CBS on Monday night for the first time this season, averaging a 4.2 rating and 11 share to the latter’s 4.6/11. At 10 p.m., “Studio 60” lost 34 percent of lead-in “Heroes’” 5.3 average. It finished third in the timeslot behind CBS’s “CSI: Miami” and ABC’s “The Bachelor” premiere. That’s hardly encouraging for the Aaron Sorkin-penned drama, which some media people praised as the best pilot they’d ever seen over the summer. Indeed, the quality of the show doesn’t seem to be the problem; nearly everyone agrees that all the parts are there. It may simply be the subject matter. People outside of Hollywood don’t care about the entertainment business nearly as much as those inside it do, and shows about the industry don’t have a great track record. HBO’s “The Comeback” lasted just one season, and even “Entourage,” its much-buzzed-about show about a young actor, isn’t a top viewer draw. The good news for NBC is that the show may now have found its core audience and could stop dipping. It fell just 6 percent from its first half hour to its second after double-digit declines in its first weeks. “Studio 60” has also performed quite well among the affluent demos who helped make Sorkin’s “West Wing” a hit. The better news was that “Heroes” continued to look strong. Though it dipped 10 percent from last week’s 5.9, it continued to build audience in its second half hour and again won its timeslot. __________________ "I lit another cigarette. Unless I specifically inform you to the contrary, I am always lighting another cigarette." - from a novel by Martin Amis

10-03-2006, 02:01 PM	#112
larrymcg421 Head Coach Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Georgia	I didn't see that scene as making Simon seem gay. I thought it meant he just wasn't interested in a one night stand. It's possible that he has a crush on Harriet. __________________ Top 10 Songs of the Year 1955-Present (1976 Added) Franchise Portfolio Draft Winner Fictional Character Draft Winner Television Family Draft Winner Build Your Own Hollywood Studio Draft Winner

10-02-2006, 09:37 PM	#102
KWhit Coordinator Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Conyers GA	I am a huge fan of Sorkin and I really like the show so far. Perry has done a great job and I really like his and Whitford's chemistry. Two big thumbs up, so far.

10-02-2006, 10:05 PM	#103
LoneStarGirl College Starter Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Little Rock, AR	I missed tonight's episode but i really enjoyed the last two. Its hard for me to see Perry and not think Chandler.

10-03-2006, 05:45 AM	#106
Joe Pro Starter Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: Minneapolis	They need to show less of the show.. if that makes sense.

10-03-2006, 07:01 AM	#107
cschex High School Varsity Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Austin, TX	Enjoyable episode, I thought, better than last week's. Did anyone else catch Lucy Davis (Dawn!) from the UK version of the Office as Danny's assistant in the opening scene. It might have been just the one cameo, but I hope she shows up again.

10-03-2006, 06:50 PM	#113
Easy Mac Registered User Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Here	I haven't really been wowed by this show. Its ok, but I dunno, I still like Sports Night the best, then West Wing. This isn't in the same league for me.

10-03-2006, 07:01 PM	#115
Draft Dodger Coordinator Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Keene, NH	btw, I like Amanda Peet's character less and less every episode. just a complete wimp __________________ Mile High Hockey

10-03-2006, 08:17 PM	#118
Brillig College Prospect Join Date: Oct 2000 Location: Mountain View, California	Thoughts on episode 3... I do see this one as a step up from episode 2. Not a huge fan of the comedy-montage, but as long as they don't use it ever again, it works once. Some new dramatic tension in the developing relationship between Bradley Whitford and Amanda Peet, although who knows what'll happen there - it took the writers seven years to get him and Janel Maloney together . The Tom Cruise impression was a LOL moment for me, I must admit. One problem with the ensemble show is that there are too many characters for every show to be about everyone, but on the other hand, you want to introduce all the characters as quickly as you can. Hopefully, the following episodes will be a little more focused and less scattershot. An aside on Amanda Peet's character - I agree with Draft Dodger, the character is not being written as someone who credibly could be hired as a network president. Not strong enough, not confrontational enough, not confident enough. I think it was better in episode 2 "No one tells me what to put on my air," but it's been getting weaker. Now admittedly, she was having a pretty bad day in episode 3, but I guess we'll have to see. Finally - it was a brilliant choice of music at the end of the episode - "Will you still love me tomorrow," captures the essential neurosis of network television, as well as reflecting the almost trite insecurity among performers. (Note Matt leaving the party in full swing, completely alone, decidedly not happy after a huge night.)

10-03-2006, 10:37 PM	#121
jbmagic Pro Starter Join Date: Apr 2004	If you guys miss the 2nd episode you can watch it here. http://www.nbc.com/Video/rewind/full...?show=studio60

10-04-2006, 07:49 AM	#126
ISiddiqui Hall Of Famer Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Decatur, GA	The bear joke wasn't supposed to be funny, that's why right after that someone said "She'll make it work". Though it sounds like it would be the kind of throw away joke you'd see on SNL's Weekend Update. __________________ "A prayer for the wild at heart, kept in cages" -Tennessee Williams

10-04-2006, 07:55 AM	#127
ThunderingHERD College Benchwarmer Join Date: Oct 2000 Location: North Carolina	I thought the Science Schmience bit was kind of funny. Other than the completely underwhelming Gilbert-&-Sullivan-parody grand opening sketch there hasn't been anything to undermine the internal reality that the show within the show is funny. I think they did a fairly good job at cutting the montage to suggest sketches that could be funny without actually having to write them funny As for the bear says: "RARRR!", it sounds exactly like one of the terrible jokes you get on the Tina-Fey-era weekend update, so in that sense I think it was successful. __________________ "I'm losing my edge--to better looking people... with better ideas... and more talent. And who are actually really, really nice." "Everyone's a voyeurist--they're watching me watch them watch me right now." Last edited by ThunderingHERD : 10-04-2006 at 08:01 AM.

10-04-2006, 08:26 AM	#128
Draft Dodger Coordinator Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Keene, NH	the guy doing the impressions was quite good __________________ Mile High Hockey

10-08-2006, 10:15 AM	#131
vex Grizzled Veteran Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Tulsa	Finally caught up with this show. Absolutely love it. Can't wait for tomorrow's episode.

10-08-2006, 03:54 PM	#132
larrymcg421 Head Coach Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Georgia	I liked the Gilbert and Sullivan bit. Especially the fake mixup with the "hundred dollar hooker's reacharound". I also thought Science Schmience was pretty funny. Then the little tiny bits were funny enough to suggest that the whole sketches might be funny. I'd like to see more of "Commedia del' Arte". My dream is that they get really gutsy and do one episode that is just the show within the show. They'd have to get extended time and it would take alot of nerve to write full length sketches, but it would be very interesting. As for the rest of the show, I'm digging it so far eventhough it's not yet quite as sharp as the best of Sports Night or West Wing. __________________ Top 10 Songs of the Year 1955-Present (1976 Added) Franchise Portfolio Draft Winner Fictional Character Draft Winner Television Family Draft Winner Build Your Own Hollywood Studio Draft Winner

10-08-2006, 04:05 PM	#133
Barkeep49 Coordinator Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Not too far away	I think they should do less showing us the actual show. It's easier to believe that things are funny when you're not actually seeing the funny.

10-09-2006, 12:48 AM	#134
Coop High School JV Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: NJ	I agree, they should stop showing the show. it's not funny at all __________________ eNFL-Carolina Panthers Xbox Live- Coop421

10-10-2006, 01:12 AM	#135
larrymcg421 Head Coach Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Georgia	Tonight's episode was my favorite so far. It was the first one I thought really felt like the quality of Sports Night and West Wing. It especially reminded me of the Sports Night episodes where they were dealing with an on-air crisis. "Bowels, Jeremy!!??" __________________ Top 10 Songs of the Year 1955-Present (1976 Added) Franchise Portfolio Draft Winner Fictional Character Draft Winner Television Family Draft Winner Build Your Own Hollywood Studio Draft Winner

10-10-2006, 01:38 AM	#136
Peregrine Pro Starter Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Cary, NC	I am liking this show more and more, but at the same time I'm getting more and more worried that it will be cancelled.

10-10-2006, 07:32 AM	#137
Barkeep49 Coordinator Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Not too far away	In my mind there is little doubt it'll be canceled. I also agree that of the three non-pilot episodes this was the best. Part of what made it the best, was that I believed, really for the first time, that these characters are funny people and that they are doing a funny television show. Not sure what exactly caused me to feel that way, but I definitely felt it. Last edited by Barkeep49 : 10-10-2006 at 07:32 AM.

10-10-2006, 08:01 AM	#139
sterlingice Hall Of Famer Join Date: Apr 2002 Location: Back in Houston!	Easily the funniest of the episodes so far. Tho the contrast between the show and the show within the show is getting larger, not smaller. But the actual show feels like it's starting to hit its stride. A minor quibble as I did get some Sorkin flashbacks while watching last night. The "punishment" thing- I knew what he was going to say a minute before he said it because Sorkin's done the same exact stupid (tired, whiny, east coast) bit in both Sports Night and West Wing. Thankfully he didn't drag it out like in the previous two. Also, we got more love for international cricket which he referenced in Sports Night for almost an entire episode. SI __________________ Houston Hippopotami, III.3: 20th Anniversary Thread - All former HT players are encouraged to check it out! Janos: "Only America could produce an imbecile of your caliber!" Freakazoid: "That's because we make lots of things better than other people!"

10-10-2006, 12:53 PM	#141
Ksyrup This guy has posted so much, his fingers are about to fall off. Join Date: Nov 2000 Location: In Absentia	FYI... Fast National ratings for Monday, Oct. 9, 2006. CBS' Monday sitcom swap may have benefited both 8 p.m. shows, as "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Class" helped to open a Monday night win. Overall, CBS averaged a 9.4 rating/15 share, comfortably ahead of the 7.8/12 for second place NBC. ABC's 5.3/8 was good for third, nearly doubling up the 2.7/4 for FOX. Fifth place went to The CW, as the new network's comedy block did no better on Mondays than on Sundays with a 1.6/2. CBS also won among adults 18-49, though the network's margin of victory was slimmer, doing a 4.8 rating to nip the 4.7 rating for NBC. ABC's 3.1 rating was third, leaving FOX's 1.3 rating and the 1.0 rating for The CW at the back of the pack. NBC started in front with the 9.4/15 for "Deal or No Deal." CBS' "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Class" switched places this week and averaged a 6.4/10, as "The Class" actually improved slightly on its lead-in. ABC's "Wife Swap" was third with a 5.3/8, followed by FOX's repeat of "Prison Break." The CW's "Everybody Hates Chris" (1.9/3) and "All of Us" (1.6/2) had their Monday premieres. CBS moved into the lead in the 9 p.m. hour with "Two and a Half Men" (10.9/16) and "The New Adventures of Old Christine" (9.0/13). NBC's "Heroes" was second with an 8.1/12, actually winning the hour among adults 18-49. ABC's "The Bachelor" was third, followed by "Justice," which had a 2.6/4 in its time period premiere. The CW was down slightly with "Girlfriends" and "The Game." "CSI: Miami" delivered an 11.8/19 to help CBS close in first. *NBC's "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip" continued to underperform with a 5.7/9, still better than the 5.0/8 for the season premiere of "What About Brian." Ratings information is taken from fast national data, which includes live and same-day DVR viewing. All numbers are preliminary and subject to change.* __________________ M's pitcher Miguel Batista: "Now, I feel like I've had everything. I've talked pitching with Sandy Koufax, had Kenny G play for me. Maybe if I could have an interview with God, then I'd be served. I'd be complete."

10-10-2006, 12:55 PM	#142
rkmsuf Head Coach Join Date: Dec 2001	that show is toast __________________ "Don't you have homes?" -- Judge Smales

10-10-2006, 01:46 PM	#143
Vince Pro Starter Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Willow Glen, CA	Bummer about the ratings. I finally caught this show last night, and really enjoyed it. __________________ Every time a Dodger scores a run, an angel has its wings ripped off by a demon, and is forced to tearfully beg the demon to cauterize the wounds.The demon will refuse, and the sobbing angel will lie in a puddle of angel blood and feathers for eternity, wondering why the Dodgers are allowed to score runs.That’s not me talking: that’s science. McCoveyChronicles.com.

10-10-2006, 08:22 PM	#144
Raiders Army Coordinator Join Date: Oct 2000 Location: The Black Hole	FWIW, after a few beers this show is worse than I thought it was. There is no one that talks the way they do. I couldn't follow the dialogue (must be my puny brain on alcohol). The whole Matthew Perry/lackey banter leading up to him going to the Roxy was too fast and both actors barely let the other finish speaking before they jumped in. I really want to like this show. I really do. Call me a mark, but there is nothing that grabs me about this show and pulls me in. I don't think they have enough time to set up the show...which is what I think they're doing now. They need to grab some cheap hooks and draw the audience in as opposed to a lot of throwaway, snappy, am-I-smart dialogue.

10-10-2006, 10:26 PM	#150
Swaggs Coordinator Join Date: Oct 2000	I still like it, but I don't really think the romance story line (between Perry and the blonde actress). They just don't seem to have that much chemistry, and really, I have more trouble buying into Perry than the actress. I still like the show and hope it gets a fair shake, but I'm guessing if they get back together soon, we will be in for a short series. __________________ DOWN WITH HATTRICK!!! The RWBL Are you reading In The Bleachers?

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