Blogcritics Author: TV with MeeVee

Announcement: Short-content feeds

Phillip Winn — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 12:00:00 EDT

Sunday, August 26, 2007, marks the switch of all Blogcritics.org article feeds from full-content to short-content. This is the result of several converging factors, and is unfortunately a permanent decision (as permanent as any decision can be on the web, that is). We are aware of all of the reasons that this is a Bad Idea, and we are aware that some of you will be quite upset about having to click on something to read the free content, and we're sorry. Unfortunately, despite great effort, full-content feeds are not currently economically viable. Two other factors are involved: full-content feeds have resulted in an unprecedented level of content theft, with BC content appearing on many websites, usually spam sites, without attribution or permission. This duplicate content causes a cascading set of problems, not the least of which is that search engines generally aren't favorable to duplicate content, and don't always guess correctly. Finally, our RSS advertising partner is strongly in favor of short-content feeds. We hope that you'll continue to subscribe to BC via RSS, and when an article grabs your eye, it's only a click away, still free on the BC website. Thank you for your understanding.

Casting Call: Trivia Geeks Needed

TV with MeeVee — Wed, 30 May 2007 12:03:16 EDT

Are you the Weakest Link, or do you shout out the answers every time you watch Jeopardy? Anyone can guess which shiny briefcase is full of more cash, but if you're a hardcore trivia buff, you need a real challenge. Bring it on, trivia geek, NBC has got the show that is a match for you. Are you a lover of trivia? Do you have what it takes to take on the mob of 100? Follow the instructions below to find out how. TO BE CONSIDERED AS A CONTESTANT:Make a 5-minute personal videotape of yourself. You may include friends and family but show your life and what makes you a great contestantFill out an application (include a recent photo of each person)Send it to the 1 vs 100 contestant department. 1. Making Your VideotapeMaking a videotape audition for the program is very easy. Using a video camera, make a five-minute tape that tells a little about yourself and what you would do with $1,000,000. Be creative, show your personality and what makes you unique. Please start with your name and hometown. There is no "right" or "wrong" thing to say on your tape, they just want to get to know you. Make sure you can be seen and heard clearly.Label the tape with your name address and phone number.They can only accept VHS or miniDV tapes. Transferring your camcorder tape to VHS can be accomplished easily. Use the red, white, and yellow cables that come with your camera to connect it to your VCR. Push "play" on your camera, and "record" on your VCR. Please run a test and make sure your transfer worked properly.Be kind, rewind. Rewinding your tape to the beginning greatly increases NBC's fondness for you. 2. Filling out the ApplicationClick here to download the application. Adobe Reader is required to view the application. Click here to download a free copy if you do not have it installed. Please take your time and answer the questions honestly. They will only accept completed and signed applications if they are accompanied by your videotape. Include a recent photo: Please enclose a recent personal photo. Make sure your photo(s) are clearly labeled with your names and phone numbers on the back. It is best, though not mandatory, to send two clear photos of each person - one close up and one full body. If you would like to learn more about the rules of the game, you can download the official rules by clicking here. 3. Sending Your PackagePlease label your package and send it to:1 vs. 100P.O. Box 1995Culver City , CA 90232 To review, here is your "To Do" List:Make one (1) five minute videotapeLabel the tape with your name, address and phone numberComplete and sign an applicationIInclude a few recent photos of you and your supporters. Please note: Limit one application package per person. Any tape submissions received become the property of NBC Studios, Inc. and will not be returned.

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Casting Call: New Yorkers and Californians In Need Of A Makeover

TV with MeeVee — Mon, 21 May 2007 13:08:26 EDT

Are you in need of an Extreme Makeover? Will no one answer the question: How Do I Look? If it's time to trim the years off your face, clothes and style, then it's time to turn to the serious anti-aging experts! Not everyone can be a beauty queen, especially as the years add up. If your age has gotten away from you and you're looking even older than you are, you need a serious consultation to get you looking your level best again. TLC is looking for men and women in Southern California and greater NY tri-state area who are ready to turn back the clock on TLC's state-of-the-art makeover show! No surgery, but all of the latest top-of-the-line techniques to make you look 10 YEARS YOUNGER! For eligibility requirements and how to apply, go to: http://www.evolutionusa.com/casting_10years.html or email: rachel.stevens@evolutionusa.com Participants must reside within commuting distance of LA or NYC, be a U.S. Citizen and at least 18 years of age.

MeeVee Primetime Picks: May 21 - May 24

TV with MeeVee — Mon, 21 May 2007 13:07:06 EDT

24 -- "Day 6 - 4:00AM to 6:AM"The sixth season concludes with a big two-hour episode. Cut off from Josh, Bauer fights to thwart a Russian attack on a U.S. base in central Asia. As long as the bomb doesn't go off in a commercial break, everything should be alright. Heroes -- "How To Stop An Exploding Man"In the first season finale, the heroes all converge in New York for the big bang. Peter and Sylar face off; which of them will explode? Who will survive? Will the cheerleader save the world? The Bachelor: Officer and A Gentleman -- "Finale"The season ends as Andy chooses his bride-to-be. But first he takes Bevin and Tessa to meet his family in Pennsylvania, and then it's off to a Hawaiian paradise for their finale dates. American Idol -- "Finalists Perform"The two remaining finalists perform in the second to last episode of the season. Who will be crowned the next American Idol? Will it be not-Melinda #1 or not-Melinda #2? The suspense is killing me. Veronica Mars -- "The Bitch Is Back"The canceled-too-soon show concludes with the third season finale. Veronica is forced to investigate a sex tape of her with Piz that surfaces on the Internet. While she struggles to keep her dad from finding out about the tape, the investigation begins to point towards someone from her past. Dancing With The Stars -- "Finale"After the week 10 competition, it's time for the big finale! Which of our celeb-utainers will be crowned the most dexterous and delicate dancer of the season? I'm all on pins and needles. American Idol -- "Finale"It's a great big two hour finale for the Idol. All 12 contestants return for a special reunion, which will definitely be civilized and totally friendly. Then, on to the important business of actually selecting a winner. Lost -- "Through The Looking Glass"Two-hour finales aren't just for reality TV. The third season concludes with a two-hour special that promises to answer all... no wait, some... no wait a few... no, maybe none of your big questions. And there's some fighting, and sand, and a jungle. The Real World -- "Reunion Episode"On the original reality show, all the kids from the Denver house get together to dish dirt, sling mud and (presumably) make out, in a special reunion show. So You Think You Can Dance -- "Premiere"A 90-minute episode kicks off the dancing reality show with everybody's favorite; auditions. Check out the popping-and-locking, cabbage-patching, waltzing, tangoing, breakdancing madness. Pimp My Ride -- "Maxima"It's what every kid dreamed of. The guys pimp out a car with a design that includes a cotton candy machine and a robotic arm. Seems like a robotic arm is just asking for a horrible road rage accident. Entourage - "The Prince's Bride"'Medellin' finds a financial backer, but it's not all wine and roses. Turtle finally finds a date, but it's definitely not wine and roses when her father comes along as chaperone. Meanwhile, Drama mulls over a role in Rush Hour 3.

Casting Call: Restaurant Owners In Trouble Needed

TV with MeeVee — Sat, 19 May 2007 12:21:18 EDT

Are you a restaurant owner who's down in the dumps? Did your Top Chef turn out to be a kitchen disaster? Did you aim for haute cuisine and end up in Hell’s Kitchen? You can be saved! Restaurant owners in need of a serious pick-me-up can get tough love from Chef Ramsay. Hell hath no fury like an angry chef, and no chef has a sharper temper than Gordon Ramsay when things go wrong in the kitchen. The star of the highly rated culinary boot camp Hell’s Kitchen returns to FOX with another sizzling unscripted series, Kitchen Nightmares. This time, Chef Ramsay hits the road, in each episode tackling a restaurant in crisis and exposing the stressful realities of trying to run a successful food business. The third season of Hell’s Kitchen will premiere on FOX this spring. For restaurant owners in crisis with lazy chefs in the kitchen, temperamental wait staffs, and few and unhappy diners, it’s time to call in the restaurant industry’s equivalent of 911. Inspired by one of the UK’s biggest hits, Kitchen Nightmares is seen in more than 50 territories around the globe, and the series reveals a whole new side to Ramsay. He’s still prone to the explosive outbursts and spectacular confrontations familiar to fans of Hell’s Kitchen, but he also shows his sensitive and nurturing side -- a unique blend of fury, passion, inspirational leadership, and tough love that can turn a small spark of talent into a roaring flame. Feared and revered in equal measure, Ramsay has to galvanize owners, chefs, and their kitchen brigades as he attempts to turn around the fortunes of each restaurant in just one week and save them from their living nightmares. There’s no time for polite small talk as Ramsay embarks on his mission to turn things around. If the wine waiter’s service isn’t up to par, he’ll be out the door before he can say “merlot.” If the head chef doesn’t match up to Ramsay’s expectations, Ramsay will hammer him into shape, and if he can’t stand the heat, he may quit the kitchen. Ramsay’s reputation is on the line, so there’s bound to be high blood pressure, raised voices and serious clashes as he attempts to do the impossible: turn a deserted dining room into the most sought-after venue in town in just a week. Kitchen Nightmares is a co-production of Granada America and Optomen Television, in association with A. Smith & Co. Executive producers are Arthur Smith, Pat Llewellyn, Kent Weed, Gerry McKean, and Curt Northrup.You can download the application here. Mail your signed application to: The Conlin Company Casting c/o Kitchen Nightmares 11825 Major Street, Suite 106 Culver City, CA 90230 Phone: 310-482-2641 Fax: 310-482-2753 For any questions or for additional information, email KitchenNightmares@gmail.com.

Weekend Picks: May 18 - May 20

TV with MeeVee — Fri, 18 May 2007 15:28:27 EDT

Law & Order -- "The Family Hour"The 18th(!) season concludes with an ex-senator on the chopping block for murder. Thanks to a judge who loves the limelight, the trial quickly becomes a three-ring circus. Why, how outlandish and improbable! The Simpsons -- "24 Minutes/You Kent Always Say What You Want"The 18th(!!) season concludes with a parody of 24. The Springfield Elementary Counter Truancy Unit (SECTU), protects the school bake sale from disruption by a stink bomb. Meanwhile, Kent Brockman gets fired for swearing on the air. The Simpsons (and Law & Order) can now legally vote. That's a lot of little yellow people. Desperate Housewives -- "Getting Married Today"It's merely the third season finale for DH, and Bree's returning to Wisteria Lane to witness Gaby and Victor's big fat not at all Greek wedding. As if one wedding wasn't enough, a surprise wedding takes place in an unexpected location!

Casting Call: Bay Area Potential Pussycats

TV with MeeVee — Thu, 17 May 2007 08:48:12 EDT

You don't have to go through the zoo of the American Idol tryouts to make it big in reality TV. If you're a San Francisco Bay Area babe with a taste for the spotlight, you've got a chance to be on the next season of Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll.CW Bay Area and Aura Nightclub in Pleasanton, California are looking for cast members to appear in the next season of the hit reality TV series Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll. Ultimately, one or more cast members will be invited to be part of a new group inspired by the Pussycat Dolls. Open auditions will be held at Aura Nightclub, located at 4825 Hopyard Road in Pleasanton, on Saturday, May 26, beginning at 6 p.m. and concluding at 9 p.m. The best performers during the audition process will be invited to perform before a live audience at Aura later that evening. To audition, you must be 18 years or older, and arrive at the casting call with a completed application, a photocopy of your driver's license, and two photos. You must be dressed and ready to sing and dance to a two-to-three minute piece of music (upbeat) that you bring with you on CD or tape. Music will not be provided.A downloadable application and complete eligibility requirements are available at www.cwbayarea.com.

Casting Call: Spurned Spouses Needed

TV with MeeVee — Wed, 16 May 2007 13:27:34 EDT

Did you start out as one of the Real Housewives of Orange County, and end up ready to spill your sob story to Dr. Phil? If it's splitsville for you and your spouse, then turn to the loving embrace of reality television to make everything better. Are you having a difficult time coping with your transition? The network that brings you Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and Supernanny has developed the next big uplifting and inspirational show that can help! The Ex-Wives Club will empower all women and men. Our hosts Shar Jackson, Angie Everhart, and Marla Maples will help you surface again and overcome your anxieties and fears. If selected for the show, you will be spoiled, pampered, and showered with gifts worth thousands of dollars! Learn how to let go, rebuild self-esteem, and discover the NEW you! EVERY SUBMISSION WILL BE VIEWED! E-mail ExWivesCasting@gmail.com with the following info: City and State in the subject linePictureContact Phone Numbers (cell, home, work)How long marriedDates of Separation and/or Final Divorce Briefly tell us: Why you fell in love with your spouse.What happened to your marriage?What reason would your spouse give for your separation?Are you still in love?What is your current relationship with your ex or soon-to-be ex? Here is what you can do to increase your chances of making it on the show: Start making a home tape/video diary and tell us your story. Make this tape over a period of two weeks. Put the camera in a private place and turn it on when you feel strong emotions: first thing in the morning; right before bed; or even when you wake up in the middle of the night. A casting producer will call and give you an address to send the tape. Make sure you can be seen and heard clearly. DV or VHS format preferred. Make sure you submit a photo and all contact information to ExWivesCasting@gmail.com. Participants must be at least 21 years of age and willing to share their story.

MeeVee Primetime Picks: May 14 - May 17

TV with MeeVee — Mon, 14 May 2007 14:10:09 EDT

King of Queens -- "China Syndrome"The series concludes after nine seasons with a special one-hour episode. Doug wants a divorce; Carrie wants to stay together and adopt a baby. Will it be curtains for the royal family? Watch them joke their last.How I Met Your Mother -- "Something Blue"It's Lily and Marshall's wedding reception, and Barney finds out that Ted and Robin have a big secret they've been keeping. Are they getting married? Are they breaking up? Is Robin pregnant? Will Barney drive them crazy until they spill the beans? Tune in for the season finale.CSI: Miami -- "Born to Kill"In the season finale, Horatio and the team hunt down a serial killer who marks his victims with a Y. When he's captured, he blames his double-Y chromosomes for his killing. That's even worse than the Twinkie defense.Gilmore Girls -- "Bon Voyage"Say goodbye to the Gilmore Girls! In the series finale, Rory gets a job as a journalist and Luke organizes the whole town to give her a graduation party. Take your last chance to see Rory, Lorelei, Luke, Lane and all the rest of the Stars Hollow gang.American Idol -- "Three Finalists Remain!"It's the showdown before the finale, and three singers are duking it out for the top place in America's heart. The themes are judge's choice, contestant's choice, and Clive Davis' choice. Blake Lewis, Jordin Sparks, and Melinda Doolittle perform.Dancing with the Stars -- "Round Nine"In the semi-finals, things are getting hot, hot, hot! The four remaining couples get a chance to perform their favorite dances again, but with all new music and choreography. CSI: NY -- "Snow Day"The third season concludes with a bang. Mac and the rest of the CSIs are forced to defend the lab against a drug dealer and his crew when they invade, looking for drugs confiscated in a major drug bust. There will be no easy out for New York's finest science and crime geeks. America's Next Top Model -- "The Girl Who Becomes America's Next Top Model"The final three contestants film a cosmetic commercial that sends one girl packing. Then, the final two compete in a full-tilt fashion show in the land down under. Only one girl can be the one who has the right stuff. Who will the judges crown as the next top model? Bones -- "Stargazer In A Puddle"The second season ends with the team investigating the death of a woman with an aging disease. In the meantime, Hodgins and Angel prepare for their wedding bells, and Brennan's father tries to tell her about her past. Medium -- "Everything Comes To A Head"Neve Campbell and Jason Priestley continue their guest starring roles as the third season ends. Meanwhile, it all goes to heck for Allison as her psychic abilities get revealed in a very public way.The Office -- "The Job, Parts 1 and 2"The third season ends with a special one-hour episode. The Dunder-Mifflinites rehash their beach competition antics, and a corporate job opening makes the competition heat up. Michael, Jim, and Karen head to New York to jockey for the new job. Bob Barker: A Celebration Of 50 Years On Television After 50 years on TV and 35 years on The Price Is Right, Bob Barker is ready to retire. Celebrate the history of the longest running game show and its iconic host. Bob Barker, come on down! Scrubs -- "My Rabbit; My Point of No Return"In the sixth season finale, J.D. asks Kim to move in with him, and Elliot gets some help with her wedding, but nothing feels right. Are they settling down with the wrong people? Also, fatherhood changes things for Turk. Supernatural -- "All Hell Breaks Loose, Part 2"With the fight between Jake and Sam concluded, Dean is forced to deal with the ugly consequences. The Yellow-Eyed Demon plagues the Winchester boys, he wants a general for his army and he's not giving in easily.Other Season Finales: Ugly Betty Grey's Anatomy SmallvilleCSI ER

Casting Call: Strangers Wanted for The Real World

TV with MeeVee — Fri, 11 May 2007 09:56:26 EDT

Way back in the Stone Age of reality TV, before there was an American Idol or Survivor, there was a little show about seven strangers put in a house to live together. If you ever wanted to be part of reality TV history, here's your chance. The Real World is casting for its 20th (and possibly final) season. Check out The Real World casting site, whether you want to be part of the action or just want to be judge and jury for Real World hopefuls. The Real World casting site is designed to be a highly immersive experience that engages viewers on multiple levels, from castee to judge. Viewers who join the community can register to be considered for the show, or serve as judges to help determine who makes the cut. In either instance, they are connected to the larger community of The Real World fans who share similar passions and who want to stay connected to -- and help influence -- the story arcs, characters, and themes they see on-air. Viewers who throw their hats into the ring for the cast of Season 20 must submit a 90-second "confessional" video detailing their passions, life experiences, and phobias. Viewers who elect to serve as judges can climb a virtual casting hierarchy to serve in any number of roles, from Head of Casting to VP of Casting, Casting Director, Casting Associate, Casting Intern, or just plain Voter. The hierarchy is determined by the number of votes a registered user casts; the more one votes, the higher on the ladder they climb. But it's not just castees who make it onto MTV. Even judges may appear throughout the season to discuss whom they voted for and why.The current season of The Real World: Denver ranks #1 in its time period (10-10:30 p.m. Wednesdays) among P12-34 versus cable competition, and has reached 91.4 million total viewers season-to-date. The season finale of The Real World: Denver is May 16. The next season -- Season 19 -- will take place in Sydney, Australia and is currently in production. The viewers chosen through the RealWorldCasting.com site will be members of The Real World Season 20. The Real World: Denver is a massive hit on mtv.com as well. In the month of April, viewers streamed four million full episodes, sneak peeks, and after-shows, making The Real World: Denver the most-watched show at mtv.com. Since the show's on-air premiere in November, The Real World: Denver has delivered nearly 24 million streams, consistently making it one of the most- viewed TV shows on mtv.com. The Real World was created for MTV by Jon Murray and Mary-Ellis Bunim of Bunim-Murray Productions, and Jon Murray and Jim Johnston serve as Executive Producers. Drew Tappon and Jacquelyn French are Executives Producers for MTV.

MeeVee Primetime Picks: May 11 - May 13

TV with MeeVee — Fri, 11 May 2007 09:51:43 EDT

Ghost Whisperer -- "The Gathering"In the second season finale, Melinda receives clues from the ghost prophet that she must understand in order to keep the dark from overtaking the light. Maybe Master Yoda can help? Survivor: Fiji -- "Five Contestants Remain!"It's getting hot in here! One of the contestants finds a way to eavesdrop on the others, and overhears the plot to get him ousted. The drama ramps up as another competitor tries to use a reward as a bargaining chip. Who will remain? 7th Heaven -- "And Away We Go"The Colonel gives Eric and Annie an RV, but when they plan a trip around the country, the guest list gets longer and longer. How much of the CamClan can you fit in an RV?