Sunday, August 26, 2007

08/26 - Cabin Fever

After 50 days of being confined in the house, it’s unsurprising that the houseguest were getting a bit punchy with one another. First Jessica and Eric squabbled for a bit about the mysterious Cheryl, Eric’s maybe-girlfriend back in the real world. I was surprised by Jessica’s reaction—all this time I thought her feelings toward Eric were like that of the benevolent cheerleader for the mousy kid who dresses as the school mascot—but perhaps she does have feelings for him.

The second couple feeling the strain is father-daughter duo Dick and Daniele. In full-on mother hen mode, Dick doted over Daniele about eating her dinner, putting on warm clothes, and taking her vitamins. Daniele’s patience was clearly running thin, which led to this loving exchange:

“How come you’re so impatient with me?” asked Dick.

“I’m NOT!” screeched Daniele.

Frankly I don’t think I could sustain a smiley face in those circumstances, so it’s no wonder they’re so snippy.

Fortunately nothing relieves tension that a luxury competition, especially the first of the season. But before I get into the details, let me say that I’m often forced to defend big Brother against the rolling eyes and upturned noses of friends and coworkers. “How can you watch such garbage?” I’ve been asked on occasion.

And while I always come to the show’s defense, competitions like this one—where contestants frolicked naked in a tub of suds—make it very difficult. Wasn’t that a little too Girls Gone Wild for 8 o’clock? And if they were going to have such a tawdry competition couldn’t they have had it when Mike, Nick, and Jen were still around?

As for nominations, at the start of the episode most everyone thought they’d be safe, illustrating how well Jessica is playing the game (that and the fact she’s the only one who hasn’t been nominated).

Zach wasn’t worried because he skillfully spelled out a rational argument to Jessica as to why he’s worth keeping around. Amber also felt safe, but that’s because her head is too far up her butt to see clearly.

More and more Amber shows herself as the epitome of self-obsession through comments such as “I’m not as small as I look” and “I’m really good at unscrambling words.” Not convinced of all-out arrogance? How about, “I have the hair, the face, and the personality for a top model.” Wow.

Lots of praise goes out to the editors who paired such comments with such unflattering footage. That’s not to say Amber has no future in modeling, I’m just unsure how many anti-Semitic publications are seeking cover girls.

Ultimately the ogre and the airhead were nominated. I’m not convinced they’re Jessica’s true targets, however; and I hope this is step one in a plot to backdoor Dick, also known as the 44-year-old pervert.

Other thoughts:

+ Sure, Big Brother may be lowbrow, but that new show CBS is promoting about the vampire private eye doesn’t look much better. It sounds like a lame Saturday Night Live skit gone way too far.

+ In case you missed it, mid-prayer Amber said, “I love you, God. And God bless you.” Does God really bless himself? That seems excessive.

+ Ideally, who would you like to see having face-to-face time with Julie Chen on Thursday?

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

I consider Dick vile but that said I would keep him. Dick doesn't win competitions (1 POV). If this week is going to be a backdoor week I would go for the bigger threat, Dani. The only way I see a backdoor happening is if Jameka would win POV. Jessica would not put up Eric, leaving only D&D. Besides if Dani left Dick would want to go to ensure she is eating right and taking her vitamins. I loved the editing with Amber. I have never met a less insightful woman. Amber is the gal I believe will depart Thursday. As far as the competiton your description of it is right on target. Alison Grodner was a sub-producer in years past and this is her first year as executive producer. I think we have Alison to thank for the girls gone bad video, the overt household manipulation on who to vote out, and the abuse we have witnessed this season. I am hoping this is her last season as producer but I doubt it since this season's rating are up. I have never advocated that America play Eric dumbly, through rogue votes, ruining his game. However I do think it would be hysterical if Eric had to kiss Dick and I believe my boy Eric could pull it off.

Anonymous said...

I agree, Dani is a way bigger threat than Dick. If the POV is won and someone goes off the block, if Jessica's smart, she'll backdoor Dani.

Anonymous said...

I really do not understand the point of getting Zach out. I mean, he is the best person to keep around because he is not a threat AT ALL. He can't win anything and has not even come close. And it would be stupid to get Jameka out for the same reason. Though I do not want Daniele out, I think she is one of the best BB players in a long time.

I know people talk a lot of shit about Amber, but I think she is a doll. Yes, she is annoying, but I love that she is honest about what she doesn't know. I wish more people were like that. And who cares if she thinks she can be a top model. Sounds like the life she has had deserves a little confidence.