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Bad News for Big Shots - But Good for Private Practice?

BuzzSugar — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 12:35:16 -0800

Big Shots, one of those new shows that I wished would be better than it was, has been pulled from the ABC schedule, effective immediately. It's a curious decision given the writers' strike - the show had three finished episodes that could have aired, and you'd think any original programming these days would be better than repeats.

Not so at ABC, apparently; instead of Big Shots, the network will air repeats of Private Practice in the post-Grey's Anatomy time slot for the next three weeks. (Grey's will be in repeats the whole time, too.)

There's speculation that the move could be a tryout for Private Practice in the post-Grey's time slot, but I really hope that doesn't happen. For one thing, Private Practice seems to be doing just fine on Wednesdays. For another, I think putting the spinoff after the original would just make Private Practice look weak. I already miss Addison at Seattle Grace; seeing the shows back-to-back would only make that worse.

I've already said I'd like to see Cashmere Mafia air after Grey's to take on NBC's Lipstick Jungle. But if that doesn't happen, what about Dirty Sexy Money? It's a good show that's being mostly forgotten in its current time slot, and it shares the soapy tone of Grey's but is different enough that viewers might stick around to watch it. I know I would - what about you?

TV Tonight: The New Thursday

BuzzSugar — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 10:38:09 -0700

Last season, Thursday was the night I rarely budged from my couch, what with TV serving up a lovely cocktail of "Ugly Betty" plus "The Office" with a splash of "Grey's Anatomy" on top. This season's Thursday is already looking crowded, and several of the shows that make it such a blockbuster night - "30 Rock" and "Scrubs" on NBC, "Supernatural" on The CW - aren't even coming back just yet.

The rest are, though, starting with "Ugly Betty," which had one of the craziest cliffhangers of the spring. Tonight's premiere episode features a telenovela parody in addition to the big reveal of which characters made it through the finale's apparent bloodbath alive. Then, of course, there's a special hour-long episode of "The Office" going head-to-head with "Grey's" for the first time. Over on "CSI," the big mystery is the search for Sara, who was left for dead in the spring finale. And on "Smallville," Supergirl makes her first appearance. Add in "My Name is Earl," "Without a Trace," "Survivor" and the game shows over on Fox, and it's going to be a crazy night.

The evening's sole new network show is "Big Shots," which is heavy on the eye candy with Michael Vartan, Dylan McDermott, Christopher Titus, and Joshua Malina (for those who prefer eye candy of the geeky kind). Unfortunately, I thought the pilot was pretty dismal, though I'm holding out some hope that things could get better. In such a crowded field, what are you planning to watch? To watch previews for several of the shows, just read more

"Ugly Betty":

"The Office" and "My Name is Earl":

"Smallville":

"Big Shots":

"The Office" photo courtesy of NBC
"Ugly Betty" photo copyright 2007 ABC, Inc.
"Smallville" photo courtesy of The CW

Fall TV Preview: Five New Shows to Skip

BuzzSugar — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 07:30:00 -0700

All summer long, I've been giving you my first impressions of the networks' new shows. Now, with fall TV upon us, it's time to tell you which shows are deserving of space on your TiVo and which ... well, aren't. Today, I'm starting off with five shows that - based on their pilots - you'd be best to steer clear of this fall.

5. "Life" - I was into the premise of this show about a detective who gets sentenced to life in prison and rejoins the police force after his wrongful conviction is overturned. But the show itself was such a bundle of cop-show cliches and random quirks that it was already grating on me by 10 minutes into the pilot. Lead actor Damian Lewis gives his best shot, but if the writers want to create a "House"-style misanthrope, they're going to have to do more than make him wax poetic about fruit all the time.

4. "Viva Laughlin" - I once declared this musical drama the pilot I most wanted to see ... but then I actually saw it. What a bummer. I thought it would be a fun, cheesy, over-the-top hit. In reality, the musical numbers that didn't involve Hugh Jackman fell flat, and the dialogue was cringe-worthy. I still hold out hope that it could get better, but I doubt it's going to be on the air long enough to improve.

Three more to be wary of, so read more

3. "The Big Bang Theory" - Look! It's smart guys who are too inept to date a hot chick! How revolutionary! I don't claim that every single TV show on the air has to be groundbreaking; sometimes I just want a quick, mindless laugh. But I would prefer that shows stop relying on the same old, tired, geek-vs-hottie, pretty-girls-are-dumb, smart-boys-are-hopeless brand of "jokes," and this show never really gets beyond that.

2. "Big Shots" - How do you screw up a show with three hot guys, one adorable smart guy, and a plum post-"Grey's Anatomy" time slot? You reach so hard for the "'Sex and the City' for men" premise that your characters must reinforce numerous times that they are not, in fact, women. There's just nothing here to hold onto besides trite story lines about adultery, unfulfilling sex and indulgent spending. This one has the star power to be a hit, but it needs some major retooling first.

1. "Cavemen" - I know. Shocking, right? The premise is just so flimsy here, and the joke so one-note, that I'm not sure there's any way this pilot could have overcome all the negative "you've got to be kidding me" press this show has gotten for months. I'll admit that there are funny things about this show (the costumes; the caveman who reads The Economist), but it still feels exactly like those Geico ads - and there's a reason they only lasted for 30 seconds.

"Big Shots" and "Cavemen" photos copyright 2007 ABC, Inc.
"Big Bang Theory" and "Viva Laughlin" photos courtesy of CBS
"Life" photo Source

Pilot Watch: "Big Shots"

BuzzSugar — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 04:30:00 -0700

The networks have announced their fall schedules, but which of the series will actually be worth watching? Throughout the summer, as I watch the pilots, I'll be posting my first impressions. A lot can change before a show makes it to air, so these aren't comprehensive reviews, just quick thoughts on how the shows look now. Today's installment: ABC's "Big Shots."

What's it about? "Men are the new women" is the mantra of this "Sex and the City" for men, which traces the disastrous personal lives of four high-powered CEOs.

Who's in it? Michael Vartan, Dylan McDermott, Christopher Titus, Joshua Malina

The good: It's a strong cast filled with three TV powerhouses (Vartan, McDermott, Titus) as well as nerdy Malina, an Aaron Sorkin favorite. A show like this can live or die by the guys' chemistry, and they play off each other decently well in the pilot.

The bad: Everything else. The most commonly uttered phrase seemed in the pilot seemed to be "we're men" - in case we could forget. It's trite and dull, with stereotypical jokes about demanding women, sexual fetishes, marriage therapy, etc. Also, much as I love Malina, he seems utterly out of place as a powerful businessman.

Will I watch? I doubt it - and, furthermore, I don't think it's worthy of the post-"Grey's Anatomy" time slot.

To watch a preview and see a gallery of photos, read more

View 25 Photos ›

TV Casting Roundup: "Heroes," "Bionic," "Big Shots"

BuzzSugar — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 12:07:14 -0700

Really, guys, how many "Heroes" are there going to be? Today brings news that Jessica Collins, formerly of "The Nine," has joined the cast in a recurring role. She'll play Sophie, a "mysterious woman with powers" - who isn't, these days? - who works at the organization that's tracking the heroes. She'll join fellow "The Nine" alum Dana Davis on the show.
Paul Blackthorne, most recently of Sci Fi's "Dresden Files," will appear this fall on ABC's guy-fest "Big Shots." His character will be the fifth CEO, a successful tycoon whom the other four CEOs - played by Michael Vartan, Christopher Titus, Dylan McDermott and Joshua Malina - envy.
Linda Park, most recently of "Raines," will be a regular on "Women's Murder Club," playing a deputy district attorney.
Bruce McGill, who's had supporting parts in pretty much everything, now has a recurring role on "Bionic Woman" as a powerful operative within the bionics program.

Source

ABC Dramas have a lot of Big Shots

PopSugar — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 15:31:10 -0700

Along with all the gorgeous women joining ABC's prime time, there will be plenty of eye candy for the ladies as well. The male version of Sex and the City is called Big Shots and stars Michael Vartan, Dylan McDermott, Christopher Titus and Joshua Malina. In the pilot these four CEOs sit around in a steam room bitching about their lives when Dylan's character finally says, "Men, we're like the new women." Talk about a guilty pleasure! Then there is the most hyped show of the season, the Grey's spin off, Private Practice. While everyone else is focusing on Kate Walsh, we'll lust after Taye Diggs who will get another shot at ABC prime time. For lots of upcoming PP and Grey's secrets, click here.

Peter Krause stars in Dirty Sexy Money where he plays a lawyer who takes over his dead father's job as personal counsel for an uber-rich dysfunctional family. The creator of the show, Craig Wright, said it was inspired by the Dallas or Dynasty models but more updated. Ex-OC and Entourage star, Samaire Armstrong also joins the cast as the blonde bratty socialite that many are already comparing to Paris Hilton. Just what we need - another place to watch a tabloid family come to life. To check out a clip and learn more about the show just click here.

For lots more pics including Amy Brenneman, Tim Daly, Joshua Malina and more just read more

View 25 Photos ›

Images include Natalie Zea, Glenn Fitzgerald, Samaire Armstrong, Seth Gabel, Peter Krause, Zoe McLellan, Craig Wright, Greg Berlanti, Josh Reims, Matthew Gross, Michael Vartan, Christopher Titus, Joshua Malina, Dylan McDermott, Jon Harmon Feldman, Mark Gordon, Betsy Beers, Amy Brenneman, Taye Diggs, Shonda Rhimes, Kate Walsh, Tim Daly, KaDee Strickland, Chris Lowell, Marti Noxon, and Mark Tinker.

Source

Is Pickle Juice the New Sport Drink?

FitSugar — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:00:01 -0700

I feel bad throwing out pickle brine, but I never know what to do with it when I eat the last pickle. My friend saves the juice for her Bloody Mary mix but I'm not a big fan of the brunchy cocktail. But apparently pickle brine has another use - as a sports drink!

You lose electrolytes whenever you have an intense workout or sweat intensely. Even though it sounds weird that pickle juice makes a good electrolyte replacement, it totally makes sense when you consider how much salt is in the juice. Sodium is an essential component in helping the body retain fluids, which is extremely important for long workouts, marathons, or any other endurance activity. Not having enough fluids in your muscles can result in some serious cramping and dehydration.

It's definitely an acquired taste, but if you feel like you want a natural alternative to Gatorade, try adding some pickle juice to water, or make some pickle juice popsicles. I might give it a shot the next time I'm out on a major bike ride or an all-day climb in hot weather.

Source: Flickr User nonelvis

Grey's Anatomy Rundown, "Give Peace a Chance"

BuzzSugar — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 08:30:41 -0700

Derek Shepherd has been on the periphery of Seattle Grace for the first few episodes of this season of Grey's Anatomy, but this week he's back - and in a big way. As Derek tries yet again to work his magic on a seemingly inoperable tumor, he also provokes a long-coming showdown with the Chief. As for the other doctors, Cristina's still frustrated about her lack of surgeries, and Alex still can't get through to Izzie.

For even more Grey's fun, the Grey's Anatomy McAddicts Group in the Buzz Community just might be perfect for you. Ready to get into it? Just read more.

Derek is faced with a conundrum when he finds out that a fellow doctor at Seattle Grace not only wants Derek to remove his inoperable tumor, but that he came to the hospital just for Derek. I kind of thought Derek would have a little more trouble finding his confidence (remember when he went on that bender to the woods last year?), but he wastes no time scheduling the surgery behind the Chief's back.
Speaking of confidence, Cristina's true colors are beginning to show through her cocky exterior. She pretty much declares herself the winner of Derek's challenge, only to fail miserably in front of her colleagues. There's still tension between her and Owen (can't wait to see what happens when Kim Raver is added to this mix. By the end of the episode, Owen is making things right again and helping Cristina with her surgical skills.
Lexie's emotional relapse from last week seems to be behind her now, and she quickly steps up to the plate when she's selected for Derek's surgery. At first she's still a shrinking violet when Avery makes fun of her diaper (how hilarious/ridiculous were the shots of her waddling down the hall), but she has the last laugh when Avery's hand cramps up due to dehydration. I also loved that she came into her own, barking orders at Shepherd and helping him through.
Derek and the Chief aren't the only rivals at the hospital: Alex and newbie Reid are giving them a run for their money. The sexual tension between them is becoming abundantly clear (at least to me), as Reid gives Alex lectures when he avoids seeing Izzie. In the end, Izzie skips her cancer treatment and Alex is in tears yet again this season. Reid is the only one there to comfort him - seriously, how long before they end up in the sack?
Derek has one lapse in confidence when operating on Isaac, but after one long night with Meredith he solves the problem (of course). Am I the only one who wasn't on the edge of my seat about his "eeny meeny miney mo" game at the end? It just seems so obvious that Isaac is going to make it.
On the other hand, I was a bit shocked when the Chief fires Derek at the end, even though Derek barely bats an eyelash and passes on Isaac's words of wisdom to "sleep on it" and see what happens tomorrow. I'm also kinda loving Mere and Der's married life - so much nicer without all of their drama.

What'd you think of this week's episode? Is Derek really fired? Do you wish there was a little more Bailey ('cause I do)?

Rashida Jones and Chris Pratt Talk Parks and Recreation

BuzzSugar — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:38:35 -0700

Since the beginning of the Fall season, Parks and Recreation has gone from shaky midseason replacement to a solid half-hour of comedy, thanks in part to a talented and hilarious cast. Two of my favorite actors from the show, Rashida Jones and Chris Pratt, who play Leslie's best friend Ann and Ann's ex-boyfriend Andy, respectively, chatted with some reporters this week about Parks and what's in store for their characters.

Rashida on the possibility of Ann and Andy getting back together: You know, I don't think it's an impossibility. I think there's still love in Ann's heart for Andy. I think so much would have to change for him to be OK with her. But I don't think it's an impossibility.
Chris on whether Andy will get a job or home: Yeah, the writers have found a nice way for Andy to get out of the pit and get a job and start sort of working his way up into independence.

To read more on why Chris and Rashida think the second season has been better, Ann and Andy's ex relationship, and those nude scenes, just read more.

Rashida on whether she likes Ann and Andy better together or apart: I think there's a lot of comedy both ways. I mean, I like this particular paradigm; I think it's really funny, because I just think Chris gets to shine a lot here and do something with something that could potentially seem really kind of cartoony and big which is like him, you know - showing up places and pretending to be casual about seeing me and all that. But he manages to make it kind of realistic and really sweet. So I like this dynamic for now.
Chris on whether Andy will start dating: I think that Andy's undying devotion toward Ann is one of the only things that sort of redeems him, so I hope not. I hope that he just keeps pining after Ann for 10 seasons to come. That would be the best for me.
Rashida on what Chris wears when he's naked on the show: They have those really unappealing little dance belts that were uncomfortable for Chris Pratt.
Chris on the nude scenes: Yeah, let's just say there was a dance belt included and it was uncomfortable. They kind of just are these little things that cover up your junk, but it was almost as if I was wearing nothing at all. Yeah.
Rashida on the show clicking more in the second season: It just takes time. I think for the actors, for the writers, for the audience, you just need some time to settle into what the characters actually are, and what's funny about their dynamics. And I'm super grateful that people gave us a shot to get there but I definitely think it takes about 10 episodes to even know what anything is, you know? I mean, you watch some early Seinfeld, you watch some early Sex and the City, it's nothing like the show turned out to be; the things that people loved about that show did not exist at the beginning of that show, you know.
Chris on the same: I've noticed that, as a fan of the show, I've seen it get better and better, and working on it I've noticed the scripts coming down the pipes have gotten better, but it kind of goes back to what Rashida said: it takes time for everybody. And I think it's just a matter of finding the sensibilities to all the characters and starting with Amy, you know; I think a lot of people compared Steve Carell to Ricky Gervais from The Office when they first started the American version of The Office. But he has a different style of comedy, and maybe they were writing for Steve the way they did for Ricky Gervais. And maybe in the beginning, they were writing for Amy the way that they wrote for Steve Carell, but her comedic sensibility is a little different. Maybe it's not that funny to watch her be uncomfortable the way it is with Steve Carell, but it's so goddamned endearing when she smiles. And you see her and when she's enjoying herself, so is the audience. And you see her doing that a lot more now; kind of just becoming comfortable in who she is, and like the episode with the beauty pageant, she's standing up for women's rights. You're seeing more dimensions of her. And maybe it's always been who they've envisioned her to be, or maybe they're figuring it out, but I sure like Leslie a lot more in the second season. I just enjoy watching her more and I think that's starting to happen with all the characters.

Don't forget to tune in to watch Ann and Andy on tonight's special Halloween episode; something tells me that some of what Rashida and Chris talked about will start developing sooner rather than later!

Could Natalia Vodianova Be the New Face of YSL?

FabSugarUK — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 01:45:43 -0700

Yves Saint Laurent has an impressive portfolio of ad campaigns. They star some of the world's best known models including Kate Moss, Claudia Schiffer, and Naomi Campbell. Next season they have recruited another well known face as rumour has it that Natalia Vodianova is to take the reigns.

The Russian beauty was reportedly shot by Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin for the Spring/Summer 2010 campaign. She did attend the show earlier this month in a high waisted leather skirt.

I am already a big fan of Natalia and think it would be great to see more of her! Would you like to see her as the face of the French fashion house?