The Game Show Forum
The Game Show Forum => The Big Board => Topic started by: tpirfan28 on October 20, 2007, 07:38:15 PM
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Exactly what the title says.
It's been a week...how Drew doing? Is the show better or worse with him? What are your first impressions? Is he too much a Bob clone or is he so far off the deep end that it's not even close to TPIR anymore?
Don't be afraid to post, remember, we are allowed to challenge opinions (for the good, of course). Might make some really good debate over hosting styles, personality, etc.
I figured we should do this at least a couple more times...sometime around the midway point and at the end of the season.
I'll post later so not to cloud opinions.
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[quote name=\'tpirfan28\' post=\'167464\' date=\'Oct 20 2007, 04:38 PM\']It's been a week...how Drew doing? Is the show better or worse with him? [/quote] There is no question, the show is much better with Drew at the helm. Little things that would irritate me when Bob hosted go by unnoticed. It's nice to have a host who can hear bids, who is clearly enjoying himself, and doesn't cause backstage strife.
Yeah, I think it's an improvement. Drew still has some work to do, learning more games, how to do the Showcase reveal, and so on. But I will absolutely take a nervous Drew over a cantankerous Bob.
What are your first impressions? Is he too much a Bob clone or is he so far off the deep end that it's not even close to TPIR anymore?
It's absurd to say that he's off the deep end, and that it's not TPIR anymore. (Which may not be what you think personally, but you put it up as a spectrum bound, so there it is)
Drew's hosting proves that it's not the man that makes the show, but the contestants, the games and the atmosphere. He's hosting his way, and I like it. No more "That's the first time that happened since 1981!" things, no more Temple of Bob, and much less being silly. (There's still the jumping up and down, the screaming at the car reveal, and so on, but it's not always at volume 11.)
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I think Drew is doing fine, and I think he'll improve over time. We just need to be patient. As pointed out, his performance will vary from show to show, as he'll look less polished on some shows than others.
I think Bob retired at just the right time, and I would dare say that Price would only get WORSE if Bob continued. I think if he was still hosting 5 years from now, he'd only become more forgetful and more fragile. At this point, I say Price is in VERY competent hands. It's not "better", but it's certainly not "worse" either! Drew is going to continue finding his own way to host the show, and at the same time, hold on to traditions and elements that made Price so popular.
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[quote name=\'TLEberle\' post=\'167465\' date=\'Oct 20 2007, 07:43 PM\']
What are your first impressions? Is he too much a Bob clone or is he so far off the deep end that it's not even close to TPIR anymore?
It's absurd to say that he's off the deep end, and that it's not TPIR anymore. (Which may not be what you think personally, but you put it up as a spectrum bound, so there it is)
[/quote]
I put that spectrum end up there so that it would cover everyone's opinion. We've seen plenty of opinions (that blog, some people over there, etc.) that does get very close to that boundary, but I don't think gets there.
And no, "off the deep end" is not my descriptor of Drew.
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My happiness with his enthusiasm, effort, and creation of a happy place to work behind the scenes, all combine to far outweigh my concerns with his handling of some of the show's mechanics. And there's plenty of time for him to fix those. It's going to be a far goofier show under his watch than Bob's, but when you get down to it, it's a pretty goofy format.
As always, this is just my view but it is always quite entertaining.
ERRR... as always, I offer the disclaimer that I've been a huge fan of the guy for almost 15 years now.
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[quote name=\'ChrisLambert!\' post=\'167474\' date=\'Oct 20 2007, 09:02 PM\']
As always, this is just my view but it is always quite entertaining. [/quote]
I LOL'ed. :-)
/One of these days I owe you a drink for that.
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[quote name=\'tpirfan28\' post=\'167468\' date=\'Oct 20 2007, 04:59 PM\']
[quote name=\'TLEberle\' post=\'167465\' date=\'Oct 20 2007, 07:43 PM\']
What are your first impressions? Is he too much a Bob clone or is he so far off the deep end that it's not even close to TPIR anymore?
It's absurd to say that he's off the deep end, and that it's not TPIR anymore. (Which may not be what you think personally, but you put it up as a spectrum bound, so there it is)
[/quote]
I put that spectrum end up there so that it would cover everyone's opinion. We've seen plenty of opinions (that blog, some people over there, etc.) that does get very close to that boundary, but I don't think gets there.
And no, "off the deep end" is not my descriptor of Drew.[/quote]Right. I wanted to make sure that you were just setting up the rules, is all. Frankly, I thought that anyone who opens with "Your thoughts on DREW, please" knows what's what. So, turnabout's fair play; where are you on the spectrum?
(Understand, I'm at a point where I'm actually enjoying the show again. I would watch because it was ten o'clock and that's all there was. I'm actually seeking it out now. That ought to tell you something.)
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I think he's comfortable but he talks way to low and way too fast when describing the games and giving the Actual Retail Price of a prize or Showcase. I missed Tuesday and Wednesday, did he stumble through Check Game yet? I'm sure he will. I'm only watching the show for the same reason I watched Tic Tac Dough with Jim Caldwell, it's the same old game and the revamped set looks really cool. The one thing I hate is they replaced the contestants row seats with dollar signs instead of the usual (The Price Is Right).
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[quote name=\'ChrisLambert!\' post=\'167474\' date=\'Oct 20 2007, 09:02 PM\']
As always, this is just my view but it is always quite entertaining.
[/quote]
I lol'd hard for the first time in a LONG time. Good work. :D
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It's been a rough first week, but from the Monday show to the Friday show, I've seen a vast improvement, or shall I say evolution of Drew's abilty to host this show. It's only going to get better with time folks, you wait and see.
From the start, I knew when I heard the annoucement, Drew was going to be a perfect fit for the show, just by watching how he worked on PoX and by knowing his style from his other TV projects.
Just watching Drew interact/engage with the contestants in a way I never imagined Bob doing is such a very fresh change of pace. I've been a fan of Price for years now, and watching it/DVR-ing it was just routine, but until I feel otherwise I have a new excitement and anticipation for this show.
Finally, while I am here, I also want to send out a big shout out to the CBS exec or execs who decided to put the show online to watch. I didn't even bother watching the show on my DVR the other day when it was announced there would be a pre-emption...I just went to my computer and dialed it up and enjoyed.
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My opine........ he's off to a solid run. He takes the show a LOT less seriously than Bob ever did (oh noes, Drew doesn't act like the show is the end all to be all of television? Blasphemy!), yet has a warmness to him that endures throughout the show. My only real complaints is that he tends to rush to commercial where it seems like he just wants to get it over with, where several times they stay on him and the contestant for 10-15 seconds before the fade to black, and a few times it seemed like he wanted to say "Sucks to be you, we'll be right back!" But those are easily correctable mistakes.
Overall, I'd give him a B, good start, could easily be a great start.
Tyshaun
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I like the way he realizes the silliness inherent in much of the show, but enthusiastically jumps right in himself (jumping up and down along with the contestants, for instance).
He is a bit rusty on moving from point A to B to C, but the person we have to directly compare him to did this for 35 years. I have little doubt that that, along with some of his other quirks (like repeating the essentials of the Showcase Showdown to every contestant to, I'm guessing, avoid any chance of forgetting to mention it at all), will fade away with experience.
And I have to say, I have a great appreciation of everything he's done to not make the models seem like second-tier participants in the events. Mentioning their names repeatedly has come up, but I can think of at least three other great moments: 1) saying in all seriousness that the model was helping him keep track of the order of punches on the Punchboard, 2) complimenting a dance that "accompanied" a trip to Scotland, and 3) the self-conscious poke about a model "going snowboarding in high heels and no pants". Without actually saying it, Drew is clearly indicating that the models are never going to be "his beauties".
(And yes, I realize the irony in my inability to remember which model was being addressed in all of those cases.)
Anyway, I'm very enthusiastic about the show now, and I fully intend to keep watching, online if not on TV.
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I give him a 7.
PROS:
-He GETS IT.
-He takes a step back to let the contestant shine.
-He seems genuinely happy when a contestant wins.
-Has great interaction with contestants.
-Very cordial and sincere.
CONS:
-He rushes, esp. when going to commercial or closing out the show (not his fault as its not even 40 mins. of show)
-Gets kinda repetitive (saying "Welcome back to 'The Price is Right!" after every commercial break, "Rich Fields, who's next?")...he'll get that when he loosens up more.
-Sometimes, the interaction comes across as awkward, but that's not his fault. Getting less "420" fratboys (which the producers seems to be doing) could correct that.
-He could also stand to inject more drama into his voice (i.e. on reveals), and maybe use better transitions to commercial, dependent on when a contestant wins or loses. He'll figure that out, though.
That being said, he makes mistakes that any rookie should make. At least he doesn't look like a blithering ninny who's there just for the paycheck.
And as for the show itself, I love how it seems energetic, yet not over-the-top. Feels like the TPiR of the early-80s, where everyone was there to have fun. I love how the audience "soul-claps" during the theme song now. :-)
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I would like to echo everyone else's comments. He's off to a good if not great start, but he does have one flaw; I don't know if it's his own habit, but he talks a wee bit too fast. What I would like to see in the future is Drew giving each contestant a short interview and establishing an on-camera relationship with the models and especially Rich Fields just to enhance the family-like feel of the show. But so far, TPIR seems to be in good shape as far as the hosting goes; let's just hope we see success in the future.
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I think Drew is doing fine. I don't think you can say the show is better, because it's still early, and Bob was the consummate professional. In a couple of years, yeah.
The one thing he does I really dislike is the always asking each contestant in the wheel spinning to say hello to someone. This was always my least favourite part of the show under Bob, when they'd grab the microphone and start yelling out props to the homies back home. Frankly, nobody cares, and you're sitting with them watching the show by the time it airs anyway. And it always seems to take the focus away from the wheel. So often a guy is still in his spiel when he's just hit a $1.00, or gone over, or whatever.
And now, instead of being occasional, now it's practically required. Grrr.
Oh, and a couple of times he's come close to mocking the sponsors with things like "Yum, those hot dogs will be really tasty on that fine china", etc. I'll be interested to see how that goes in the future.
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I think he's done pretty well myself..he just needs time to get really familiar with the games and get comfortable in the role. He'll have ups and downs (especially since the episodes are going to be shown out of order), but once he gets, say, about half a season under his belt, I think he'll settle in nicely. With rumors that Guiding Light and/or Young and the Restless might be asked to make signifigant cost reductions or even be axed entirely, that sort of helps TPIR in a way, as it gives Drew and the gang time. I wouldn't worry about ratings just yet- I think CBS will give it two or three seasons before making any major announcements about the shows future.
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I don't really mind the mandatory shout-outs while the wheel is spinning, except for something that Drew has no control over--Mr. Director, when the wheel is about to stop, CUT TO IT. I don't care if Thomas hasn't finished naming his golfing partners yet.
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[quote name=\'Robert Hutchinson\' post=\'167505\' date=\'Oct 20 2007, 10:13 PM\']
And I have to say, I have a great appreciation of everything he's done to not make the models seem like second-tier participants in the events. Mentioning their names repeatedly has come up, but I can think of at least three other great moments: 1) saying in all seriousness that the model was helping him keep track of the order of punches on the Punchboard, 2) complimenting a dance that "accompanied" a trip to Scotland, and 3) the self-conscious poke about a model "going snowboarding in high heels and no pants".[/quote]
Excellent point. I've really enjoyed the increased interaction with them, like we used to have with Holly and Dian etc, when we got to hear them speak a lot, etc.
And not just in an eye candy manner. More interaction makes them more interesting, turns them into actual components of the show, instead of just being a pretty face waving a hand in front of a dishwasher. Made them much more attractive too, still lust after Holly after all these years. :)
Definitely a big improvement.
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I like Drew, I like how sincere he is, I like that he obviously cares about doing well, I like the fact that he seems to be trying to turn the models into a part of an on-air "family" like the good old days, and I like that we're hearing rules to pricing games explained again. (Toward the end, it would get on my nerves when Bob would just hand a contestant seven dollars and say "Give us the second number." Yes, Bob, and...?)
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I wouldn't have been able to watch the new episodes had CBS not put them online. So MAJOR POINTS to CBS for the move...
I think Drew is doing a fine job so far. He's doing a great job making sure the contestant is the star... and I truly love that laugh!
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I like that we're hearing rules to pricing games explained again. (Toward the end, it would get on my nerves when Bob would just hand a contestant seven dollars and say "Give us the second number." Yes, Bob, and...?)
One thing I was discussing with my mom (who has not seen Drew's hosting yet; she picks The View over TPIR...shame!) was this exact thing, and she brought up that one of the things that annoyed her the most about Bob was when somebody didn't remember how to play a particularly well-known game like "Check Game" or "Ten Chances," and he'd make some snide comment about how the person must not be a true fan of the show. I agreed with her, and am very glad Drew's not doing it...yet, anyway...:)
I'll say that I, too, am really liking Drew's hosting thus far. He's funny, seems to really care about the contestants, and looks like he's having a great time. Any of my complaints are just things that I'd expect any new host to make, and I'm sure he'll fix them over time, like the super-quick throws to commercial even after a big win and the cliche comments after coming back from a commercial break (though I do laugh when he says, "I hope you enjoyed your trip to the bathroom or the fridge," basically acknowledging that most of us aren't seeing Wilford Brimley telling us to check our blood sugar and check it often!).
As far as him building suspense goes, I LOVE that he's not doing the whole "I'm going to fake like I'll reveal this and stop midway five times" like Bob did, but I do think that, for big-prize reveals, he could stand to drag it out just a tad, time permitting. That being said, though, I thought the way he handled Punch-a-Bunch on yesterday's show was perfect.
I look forward to seeing Drew improve over time and really make the show his own. I've enjoyed watching the show this week probably more than I have in a long time, and I, too, must thank CBS for putting the episodes up online...it's great for a busy grad student like myself...:).
Anthony
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[quote name=\'beatlefreak84\' post=\'167518\' date=\'Oct 21 2007, 12:12 AM\']
That being said, though, I thought the way he handled Punch-a-Bunch on yesterday's show was perfect.
[/quote]
The ONLY knock I had on that was that he showed the audience the card before the player ever got to see it, which could have ended badly if the player thinks "oh, the crowd popped, I must have won the $10,000! Oh, only $5,000? Wow, great." Ended up working out, but it seems to me the audience should feed from the player, not the other way around.
Other'n that, I thought yesterday's was his best show yet. I am really truly enjoying watching him have fun at his new job.
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I wasn't thrilled when I heard Drew was chosen to host because I wasn't sure if he'd fit into this type of format. I was a big fan of his with Who's Line.. but something with a rigid format might be a bit much. I started to soften up when I saw all the previews and interviews because it was showing about how much he was enjoying himself and was taking the show as serious as he could but still keep it fun. I'll always be a huge Barker fan but you could tell he was just not happy being on stage anymore. Body language gave it away. From this first week Drew has shown he's thrilled to be there, lend his own way of interaction, and relates to the contestants like Bob hasn't done in quite a long time. Everyone has just about summed it up best about Drew's hosting style and I won't rehash them but what won me over is when on Friday's show someone did the whole $1 over bid in Contestant's Row and Drew said, "Way to make friends down there." I hadn't had that good of a laugh over a comment in some time. Drew and TPIR are going to be fine.
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I don't know, I still feel that if they'd have hired Todd Newton, they'd have a host who's funny and everything but also more polished, taller, and with better eyesight. I really enjoy him on the DVD home game. I'm sure he'd do the showcase reveals better.
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I was just kidding. Not that he worried about it, but Bob retired at an auspicious time, since ratings were still good and they were able to get a really good guy to take his place.
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It has simply been a pleasure to watch the first week of shows with Drew at the helm. I had no idea how much better the show could be simply with a change of host.
Personally, I hope Drew continues his remarks about Hot Pockets and silverware, and all that. Let Drew be himself-his easygoing nature and sincerity is a refreshing change.
Now the *real* question-how are the ratings?
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[quote name=\'TLEberle\' post=\'167478\' date=\'Oct 20 2007, 09:19 PM\']
Right. I wanted to make sure that you were just setting up the rules, is all. Frankly, I thought that anyone who opens with "Your thoughts on DREW, please" knows what's what. So, turnabout's fair play; where are you on the spectrum?
[/quote]
For an "average viewer's first week" of work, he good. Real good. He know how to let the stars of the show (the contestants, prizes, and Yodelman) be the stars of the show. Drew's almost a gatekeeper in a sense...just there to keep explain everything and get from point A to point B (and not let his ego run the show). And do it with class.
I fall with what will be probably the most common description: Drew Gets It and the show and him gel very well.
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I watched every show this week (except for Wednesday's half-show pre-emption) and thoroughly enjoyed them. I don't think I'd actually watched the show more than once in any week for years. Part of it was probably curiousity over how Drew would handle the job, but I like the new theme music and the fact that everyone does seem to be having much more fun. He's still a little rough around the edges, due some things previous posters have already mentioned, but that will improve in time.
My prediction: this show will keep its strong ratings and the lineups will start at midnight again.
I just hope Drew keeps the same frame of mind that he has now. Bob seemed like a nice guy in the beginning too...
Everyone has just about summed it up best about Drew's hosting style and I won't rehash them but what won me over is when on Friday's show someone did the whole $1 over bid in Contestant's Row and Drew said, "Way to make friends down there." I hadn't had that good of a laugh over a comment in some time. Drew and TPIR are going to be fine.
Personally, I understand why it was said, but that's part of the strategy of the game. You do what you have to do to get up on stage.
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Drew is doing a great job with the show. His joie de vivre makes the show fun to watch. CBS and Fremantle made the right choice.
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[quote name=\'TLEberle\' post=\'167478\' date=\'Oct 20 2007, 09:19 PM\']Frankly, I thought that anyone who opens with "Your thoughts on DREW, please" knows what's what.[/quote]
I thought the thread title was a reference to the fanb0ardz, personally. The joke was used before, was it not?
Anyway, I put him in the B range. He's decent and will find his stride soon enough, but he needs to do something other than speed through the segments in which he has little to do or doesn't deem as "fun."
I think "they" are enjoying the show, too, in spite of themselves. A lot of the "Things Drew Does But Bob Didn't" are still things Bob did, even as recent as last season (eg mocking the one-bids+supplies of__ combinations) and god forbid we have a host who emits energy.
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Here's what Mark Evanier has to say (http://\"http://www.newsfromme.com/archives/2007_10_21.html#014221\")... I think he makes some cogent observations.
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[quote name=\'Joe Mello\' post=\'167542\' date=\'Oct 21 2007, 02:20 PM\']
I thought the thread title was a reference to the fanb0ardz, personally. The joke was used before, was it not?
[/quote]
Specifically, a reference to Joe Capitano, who was stiffly offended that Tyra Banks might violate the Holy Sanctity Of TPiR by having a sense of humor (http://\"http://gameshow.ipbhost.com/index.php?s=&showtopic=9959&view=findpost&p=110536\").
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Drew gets it, and CBS has found a way to make me interetsed in The Price is Right...even more so because it's a fun experience everyday. As I said in another thread, Go Drew Go!
The Inquisitive One
/I just hope he stays calm in the next taping sessions, now that his hometown baseball team noosed themselves this past week. :)
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[quote name=\'TheInquisitiveOne\' post=\'167558\' date=\'Oct 21 2007, 08:36 PM\']
/I just hope he stays calm in the next taping sessions, now that his hometown baseball team noosed themselves this past week. :)
[/quote]
When you get paid nine million dollars a year for hosting a game show, I imagine mundane things like your team losing are easier to take.
/'sides, he's used to it
//Harry Doyle approves
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[quote name=\'Robert Hutchinson\' post=\'167512\' date=\'Oct 21 2007, 12:26 AM\'] I don't really mind the mandatory shout-outs while the wheel is spinning, except for something that Drew has no control over--Mr. Director, when the wheel is about to stop, CUT TO IT. I don't care if Thomas hasn't finished naming his golfing partners yet. [/quote]
Even better, BRING BACK THE SPLIT SCREEN.
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Do the math and give the guy a break. Say he's learned 30 pricing games, enough to get through a week without repeating. If the episode you're watching was taped on the third taping week, he's only played any given game twice before, in addition to the 29 other games he has to know. Contrast this with any other game show (except LMAD and BTC) where you only have one game to learn.
Check back in 26 weeks and see how he's doing.
The show has far bigger issues in directorville and announcerville than Drewville.
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[quote name=\'clemon79\' post=\'167559\' date=\'Oct 22 2007, 12:32 AM\']
[quote name=\'TheInquisitiveOne\' post=\'167558\' date=\'Oct 21 2007, 08:36 PM\']
/I just hope he stays calm in the next taping sessions, now that his hometown baseball team noosed themselves this past week. :)
[/quote]
When you get paid nine million dollars a year for hosting a game show, I imagine mundane things like your team losing are easier to take.
/'sides, he's used to it[/quote]
Guess how many fingers I'm holding up. Now guess which ones I'm holding up. :-)
Knowing how much of a Cleveland sports fan Drew is, I'm sure he's probably a smidge disappointed in the end result. Taking a page from Mr. Lemon, Drew's probably wiping any shedded tears with a crisp new $100 bill.
/Go Rockies!
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[quote name=\'WhammyPower\' post=\'167560\' date=\'Oct 22 2007, 12:49 AM\']
[quote name=\'Robert Hutchinson\' post=\'167512\' date=\'Oct 21 2007, 12:26 AM\'] I don't really mind the mandatory shout-outs while the wheel is spinning, except for something that Drew has no control over--Mr. Director, when the wheel is about to stop, CUT TO IT. I don't care if Thomas hasn't finished naming his golfing partners yet. [/quote]
Even better, BRING BACK THE SPLIT SCREEN.
[/quote]
This would be the perfect opportunity to bring it back since Drew is practically begging for you to give a shout-out.
However, this takes directorial skill, which is not evident.
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Part of my enjoyment of watching Week 1 is totally self-serving -- it's that feeling of validation when your initial hunch when the announcement was made that Drew would Get It plays itself out on national TV.
I can only echo sentiments that have been already stated -- his weakest points so far surround the result -- the build-up to it and then some bit of congratulations or commiseration for the contestant before throwing it to commercial.
I'm also not sure that his "Variations on a Theme" -- the spay-and-neuter closing -- are working. The one that rang most un-true was when he prefaced it with "Be kind to your pets ...."
Also, he hasn't included his name in his goodbyes. Good? Bad? Not sure. Just noticing that is hasn't been in there.
I guess it was too much to ask that increased interactivity with the models would also mean a return to the two-piece.
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[quote name=\'SteveR\' post=\'167572\' date=\'Oct 22 2007, 08:57 AM\']
I guess it was too much to ask that increased interactivity with the models would also mean a return to the two-piece.
[/quote]
Give 'em time--we all know that things move glacially at "TPIR."
I only saw Monday's show--is it true that meat grocery products are actually appearing now? (I assumed that that was one of the things they would be slow on, although they did have the model with the prop sandwich on Monday's show.)
And as far as I'm concerned, despite some nitpicks, I like what I see. The fun is back at 33 and Drew is smart enough that he will improve.
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[quote name=\'uncamark\' post=\'167589\' date=\'Oct 22 2007, 12:59 PM\']
I only saw Monday's show--is it true that meat grocery products are actually appearing now? (I assumed that that was one of the things they would be slow on, although they did have the model with the prop sandwich on Monday's show.)
[/quote]
And to piggyback on that, I wonder if we'll see more foreign cars again?...
And yes, bring back the split screen during the Showcase Showdown. If they can use it on the Marathon, then by golly, they can use it here. :-P
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I'm thinking the answer to the meat questions will be answered once the next round of sponsorships are picked up. I have a feeling that the prize/product pool is moderately limited to allow for quick transition between shows.
I have no problem seeing Ball Park or microwave bacon on the show.
/or in my fridge
//mmmmm, bacon
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By "split screen," are we referring to the 80s throwback where...
(1) we see a shot of the contestant within a triangular border,
(2) the wheel is on the right side of the shot, static, and...
(3) both the triangle and the needle are pointing at where the wheel is landing?
If so, I'm all for it.
With Drew, there should be more room for flexibility: foreign cars, "Breslow designs," and more stylish wipes and camera shots. Roger should do his part: he's been there since day one, so he could make some of this happen. Drew Carey himself is a new, fresh, enjoyable element of the show. Work around it.
The Inquisitive One
/TV class did this to me; I'm sorry.
//Bring back the super fast zoom out when Drew comes through the doors!
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[quote name=\'TheInquisitiveOne\' post=\'167619\' date=\'Oct 22 2007, 05:18 PM\']
By "split screen," are we referring to the 80s throwback where...
(1) we see a shot of the contestant within a triangular border,
(2) the wheel is on the right side of the shot, static, and...
(3) both the triangle and the needle are pointing at where the wheel is landing?
[/quote]
You are correct, sir.
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I, too, think the split shot would be nice. However . . .
Back in those days--i.e. before shout-outs were de rigueur--the contestant in the inset was usually facing the wheel, and the split reinforced that. Present-day spinners tend to face the audience for their shout-outs. Ceteris paribus, the shot of old would have them facing left for most of the spin. Blows the effect.
Maybe reserve it for bonus spins, where shout-outs are rarest.
/And, of course, Bet--er, Drew truly Gets It
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Drew is doing great so far. TPIR has got to be THE hardest show to host and he is taking to it very well. Of course he is nervous--he's got some huge shoes to fill!! As the season goes on, and he has time to become relaxed, you'll see a marked improvement in his hosting style.
/The show is in excellent hands.
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[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'167566\' date=\'Oct 22 2007, 02:24 AM\']Check back in 26 weeks and see how he's doing.[/quote]
*ding*. I donno if it's been 26 weeks or not, but the season finale just wrapped in the East about 1/2 hour ago.
So, same question as before. Your thoughts on Drew, please. We've seen a lot of him.
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[quote name=\'tpirfan28\' post=\'191157\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 12:34 PM\']
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'167566\' date=\'Oct 22 2007, 02:24 AM\']Check back in 26 weeks and see how he's doing.[/quote]
I donno if it's been 26 weeks or not[/quote]
The actual time is nearly 9 months. Sorry, you're over. *mrrp*
I didn't watch much of the second half of the season, so I'm not sure how much he has improved, but from what I've seen, it looks like he knows what he's doing and that's pretty a majority of what he needs to do. He's probably going to keep the rough-around-the-edges parts intentionally or not, but I have no problems with that.
Maybe not worth the obscene salary, but they could've done much worse.
-
[quote name=\'tpirfan28\' post=\'191157\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 11:34 AM\']*ding*. I donno if it's been 26 weeks or not, but the season finale just wrapped in the East about 1/2 hour ago.
So, same question as before. Your thoughts on Drew, please. We've seen a lot of him.
[/quote]
Shoot. I thought the finale was tomorrow. Whoops.
I don't think he's a great host (he's not bad, though), but what he lacks in ability he makes up for in wit and charm (if that makes any sense). I loved the "well, they're not gonna edit THIS out" exchange with Rich.
-
He needs to work some variety into the way he handles business. He also needs to get better at building suspense than "1-2-3 alakazam".
-
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191163\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 12:20 PM\']
He also needs to get better at building suspense than "1-2-3 alakazam".
[/quote]
Jeez, and the way he usually whips through it, too. The polar opposite of Bobby. Of course, that was equally annoying.
[reaches for card] The actual price is... [whips back to contestant] I bet you can't wait to see if you've won! [back to card] Well, let's find out... [back in contestant's face] Did I ever tell you about the time I went to summer camp and saw a turtle? [halfway toward card, then back to antsy contestant] Now remember, you could have taken the $1000 and walked away, but you decided to go for it. [back to card] Is she a winner? [slides card one inch out, lets it fall back into slot, turns to contestant] Because $1000 is a lot of money and you turned it down cold! [puts hand on card, quickly snaps hand back] I can't! I can't do it! What if you didn't get it? Would you hate me forever? [reaches for card, spins back around] Because I couldn't go on with out your undying love and adoration. I want Jean to return to Terre Haute with a brand... [extends arm] new... [grabs card] car! [whips card out to reveal contestant was wrong; losing horns sound] Awww!
-
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191163\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 12:20 PM\']
Jeez, and the way he usually whips through it, too. The polar opposite of Bobby. Of course, that was equally annoying.
[reaches for card] The actual price is... [whips back to contestant] I bet you can't wait to see if you've won! [back to card] Well, let's find out... [back in contestant's face] Did I ever tell you about the time I went to summer camp and saw a turtle? [halfway toward card, then back to antsy contestant] Now remember, you could have taken the $1000 and walked away, but you decided to go for it. [back to card] Is she a winner? [slides card one inch out, lets it fall back into slot, turns to contestant] Because $1000 is a lot of money and you turned it down cold! [puts hand on card, quickly snaps hand back] I can't! I can't do it! What if you didn't get it? Would you hate me forever? [reaches for card, spins back around] Because I couldn't go on with out your undying love and adoration. I want Jean to return to Terre Haute with a brand... [extends arm] new... [grabs card] car! [whips card out to reveal contestant was wrong; losing horns sound] Awww!
[/quote]
EPIC LOL. Well played.
-
I had a good vibe about Drew ever since he made the announcement on Letterman.
It was a rush job to get him going and it showed. By the end, he was very entertaining and engaging with the contestants. Could he have milked the drama of price reveals and contestants on the cusp of winning? Sure. But that's a "feel" thing.
A solid B+ for the season. I like how he made two mentions of thanks for those who made the whole deal possible and the fans who made him feel welcome.
-
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191163\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 01:20 PM\']
He needs to work some variety into the way he handles business. He also needs to get better at building suspense than "1-2-3 alakazam".
[/quote]
Well, it's certainly a happy medium to Bob's way, which was to drag it out for 5 minutes more than he should. Nine times out of ten, I'd have to forward through Bob's boring routine just to see the outcome of the game. So, I think this is a good solution for now.
-
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191163\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 12:20 PM\']
He needs to work some variety into the way he handles business. He also needs to get better at building suspense than "1-2-3 alakazam".[/quote]Exactly how would you make Double Prices more exciting?
-
Drew did great this season. I think he is much better than Bob.
-
[quote name=\'Modor\' post=\'191202\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 06:48 PM\']
Exactly how would you make Double Prices more exciting?
[/quote]
Add fruit. (http://\"http://gscentral.net/mprice2.htm\")
-
[quote name=\'Modor\' post=\'191202\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 03:48 PM\']
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191163\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 12:20 PM\']
He needs to work some variety into the way he handles business. He also needs to get better at building suspense than "1-2-3 alakazam".[/quote]Exactly how would you make Double Prices more exciting?
[/quote]
I didn't say make the games more exciting, I said build suspense, such as when revealing the price of a $20,000 item. You don't have to, and shouldn't, imitate Barker. Some day people will be kvetching about how repetitive and unimaginative "1-2-3 alakazam" has become, starting with me.
Experts: How many times has Drew played Shell Game?
-
[quote name=\'LetsGoMets2003\' post=\'191171\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 01:08 PM\']
[quote name=\'dale_grass\' post=\'191170\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 12:50 PM\']
Jeez, and the way he usually whips through it, too. The polar opposite of Bobby. Of course, that was equally annoying.
[reaches for card] The actual price is... [whips back to contestant] I bet you can't wait to see if you've won! [back to card] Well, let's find out... [back in contestant's face] Did I ever tell you about the time I went to summer camp and saw a turtle? [halfway toward card, then back to antsy contestant] Now remember, you could have taken the $1000 and walked away, but you decided to go for it. [back to card] Is she a winner? [slides card one inch out, lets it fall back into slot, turns to contestant] Because $1000 is a lot of money and you turned it down cold! [puts hand on card, quickly snaps hand back] I can't! I can't do it! What if you didn't get it? Would you hate me forever? [reaches for card, spins back around] Because I couldn't go on with out your undying love and adoration. I want Jean to return to Terre Haute with a brand... [extends arm] new... [grabs card] car! [whips card out to reveal contestant was wrong; losing horns sound] Awww!
[/quote]
EPIC LOL. Well played.
[/quote]
Indeed, but the credit should go where the credit is due (as I've illustrated in the quote above).
-
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191257\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 02:52 PM\']
Experts: How many times has Drew played Shell Game?
[/quote]
Four times. (http://\"http://tpirsummaries.8m.com/Season36/WBW.html\")
-
[quote name=\'tpirfan28\' post=\'191259\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 12:03 PM\']
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191257\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 02:52 PM\']
Experts: How many times has Drew played Shell Game?
[/quote]
Four times. (http://\"http://tpirsummaries.8m.com/Season36/WBW.html\")
[/quote]
I haven't seen Drew play Shell Game. This is a game where the emcee can easily figure out where the ball is. How does he handle the reveals? Does he say "Is it here? Is it here? Is it here?"? Does he say "1-2-3 alakazam" three times?
-
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191263\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 02:34 PM\']
[quote name=\'tpirfan28\' post=\'191259\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 12:03 PM\']
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191257\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 02:52 PM\']
Experts: How many times has Drew played Shell Game?
[/quote]
Four times. (http://\"http://tpirsummaries.8m.com/Season36/WBW.html\")
[/quote]
I haven't seen Drew play Shell Game. This is a game where the emcee can easily figure out where the ball is. How does he handle the reveals? Does he say "Is it here? Is it here? Is it here?"? Does he say "1-2-3 alakazam" three times?
[/quote]
You know, Chris, for a guy that claims to hate Barker as much as you do, you sure make it seem like you miss him.
I'm not saying Drew isn't above criticism, but don't you think you're being just a little unduly harsh on the guy?
-
I think at times Drew's tried too hard to be "Mr Everyman" - but I've liked watching the show this year. You can almost feel that the crew is having a happier time than last year.
I still think they're way over-paying him though...
-
His habit of repeating the last line or two that Rich says in a product description is getting quite old.
I've noticed days where he doesn't do it at all, then there are days where it is almost nonstop.
-
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191257\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 01:52 PM\']
[quote name=\'Modor\' post=\'191202\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 03:48 PM\']
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191163\' date=\'Jul 17 2008, 12:20 PM\']
He needs to work some variety into the way he handles business. He also needs to get better at building suspense than "1-2-3 alakazam".[/quote]Exactly how would you make Double Prices more exciting?
[/quote]
I didn't say make the games more exciting, I said build suspense, such as when revealing the price of a $20,000 item. You don't have to, and shouldn't, imitate Barker. Some day people will be kvetching about how repetitive and unimaginative "1-2-3 alakazam" has become, starting with me.[/quote]Well, its beyond me how you can make pushing a button on a 50/50 game suspenseful.
It must be awful cold down under, because I'm agreeing with Palmer here. I don't think you've liked Drew from the start and you're simply nitpicking.
-
[quote name=\'Modor\' post=\'191280\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 04:11 PM\']
It must be awful cold down under,[/quote]
As it happens, it is indeed winter in Australia (http://\"http://goaustralia.about.com/od/practicalinformation/a/sydneywinter.htm\"). :)
-
I don't think you've liked Drew from the start and you're simply nitpicking.
Mark, I've been doing game shows probably since before you were born, or close to it. This is my professional judgement, not fanb0i fancy. Unlike most fanb0iz I know how to separate my personal biases from legitimate criticism of a performer. Your Double Prices example is clearly a straw man. Let's talk about Five Price Tags or Shell Game where the emcee can build a little suspense other than with "1-2-3 alakazam".
Try putting on a few shows yourself and we'll resume this discussion.
-
[quote name=\'clemon79\' post=\'191281\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 06:46 PM\']
[quote name=\'Modor\' post=\'191280\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 04:11 PM\']
It must be awful cold down under,[/quote]
As it happens, it is indeed winter in Australia (http://\"http://goaustralia.about.com/od/practicalinformation/a/sydneywinter.htm\"). :)
[/quote]
Very well played.
-
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191299\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 08:29 PM\']
Your Double Prices example is clearly a straw man.[/quote]
And not even a good one.
"This could be your $8,730 hot tub...is it?" <pushes button>
"If the prize of the gazebo is $6,730, you'll have a huge tax liability for a one-bedroom apartment. Is he a winnar?" <pushes button>
"For a $20,000 car, is she right?" <pushes button>
There are plenty of creative ways to build up that reveal. I agree that the "Alakazam!" thing is turning into a bit of a crutch.
-
[quote name=\'clemon79\' post=\'191309\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 01:12 AM\']
There are plenty of creative ways to build up that reveal. I agree that the "Alakazam!" thing is turning into a bit of a crutch.
[/quote]
That may be true, but if that's the only reason why Chris doesn't like Carey as host then I think he's grasping at straws.
Drew's not perfect, but give me a break. You pick THAT as the reason?
Gotta be more to it.
/aware Chris worked for G-T
//don't care
///not a fanb0i in the least
-
[quote name=\'PYLdude\' post=\'191310\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 11:46 PM\']
That may be true, but if that's the only reason why Chris doesn't like Carey as host then I think he's grasping at straws.[/quote]
Except that's not what he said. He cited it as an example, but he never claimed that was his only gripe.
-
[quote name=\'clemon79\' post=\'191311\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 02:00 AM\']
[quote name=\'PYLdude\' post=\'191310\' date=\'Jul 18 2008, 11:46 PM\']
That may be true, but if that's the only reason why Chris doesn't like Carey as host then I think he's grasping at straws.[/quote]
Except that's not what he said. He cited it as an example, but he never claimed that was his only gripe.
[/quote]
Then again, he never made it clear that he had others.
...does he, so I don't feel like a total putz?
-
[quote name=\'PYLdude\' post=\'191312\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 12:03 AM\']
Then again, he never made it clear that he had others.
...does he, so I don't feel like a total putz?[/quote]
He said Drew needs to vary the way he handles business. My interpretation was that that includes, but is not limited to, the "Alakazam" thing.
-
[quote name=\'clemon79\' post=\'191313\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 02:13 AM\']
[quote name=\'PYLdude\' post=\'191312\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 12:03 AM\']
Then again, he never made it clear that he had others.
...does he, so I don't feel like a total putz?[/quote]
He said Drew needs to vary the way he handles business. My interpretation was that that includes, but is not limited to, the "Alakazam" thing.
[/quote]
Then your interpretation was a lot broader than mine was, Chris, because all I got out of Chris C.'s post was that he hates Drew because of the whole "Alakazam" deal.
-
[quote name=\'PYLdude\' post=\'191314\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 12:17 AM\']
Then your interpretation was a lot broader than mine was, Chris, because all I got out of Chris C.'s post was that he hates Drew because of the whole "Alakazam" deal.[/quote]
Apparently.
-
Criminy sakes, you have two guys named Chris explaining it to you and it's still not sinking in.
I'm going to try feeding this to you in itty-bitty bite-size pieces:
He also needs to get better at building suspense
OK, hold it! Stop right there! Can you grok that much?
Watch the way he handles the Showcase Showdown. Barker handled it well but with Drew it's perfunctory. It's not just what he says but how he says it, IOW acting.
Punch-A-Bunch is another great game for suspense building.
I'm not saying Drew isn't above criticism, but don't you think you're being just a little unduly harsh on the guy?
For $7 to $9 million per year I think I could withstand the criticism (which he probably doesn't read anyway).
Your witness, Mr. Lemon.
-
My 2¢...
Watch Drew handle One Away. If that's not really good suspense building, then nothing is.
Alakazam is getting repetitive, but I'd take that over Bob's hum-hawing.
-
[quote name=\'tpirfan28\' post=\'191323\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 08:25 AM\']
Watch Drew handle One Away. If that's not really good suspense building, then nothing is.
[/quote]
One good game does not a great host make. Contrast his handling of One Away with his handling of the Showcase reveal....
-
[quote name=\'isucgv\' post=\'191324\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 10:27 AM\']
One good game does not a great host make. Contrast his handling of One Away with his handling of the Showcase reveal....
[/quote]
Agreed...it should be something more than "Jane, you bid $20,000...the ARP is (pulls out card) $21,599 a difference of (ding!) $1,599." Thing is, he doesn't pause long enough to build suspense, he just rushes through it all. There's a Double Showcase win on Youtube where he doesn't really build up to the moment, he just flatly says that the contestant won both showcases.
I understand he was thrown into the fire rather quickly, for which I blame CBS and/or Fremantle, but there's some things I'd tell him to pick up on before others, i.e. building suspense on some games and the Showcase. You don't have to draw it out like Bob, or add pregnant pauses like on "Deal or No Deal", but don't just rush right through it either.
Do I think he's a bad host? No, and I also don't think that's the point Chris C. is driving at.
-
Do I think he's a bad host? No, and I also don't think that's the point Chris C. is driving at.
He has some strengths and some glaring weaknesses. For a high-seven-figure salary he should work on those weaknesses.
-
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191336\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 01:29 PM\']
Do I think he's a bad host? No, and I also don't think that's the point Chris C. is driving at.
He has some strengths and some glaring weaknesses. For a high-seven-figure salary he should work on those weaknesses.
[/quote]
No argument there.
My point is that it was his first year on the job and he's still getting acclimated. Give him a LITTLE slack.
I got your points in the earlier post you made, but you should have made them clearer before instead of having me assume something that wasn't the case. You failed to do that.
-
I also still haven't figured out why they gave an unproven (did he even DO demo shows?) host "high" seven-figures. One seven-figure would have been fine with me.
-
[quote name=\'PYLdude\' post=\'191339\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 12:04 PM\']
My point is that it was his first year on the job and he's still getting acclimated. Give him a LITTLE slack.[/quote]
See, this isn't an entry-level position. That's the thing. Far, FAR from it. Drew is at the minimum making as much as Joe Thornton makes playing for the Sharks. Nobody in San Jose ever looked at Joe and said "aw, he's new to the teal jersey, give him some time." Nor should they have.
The host of Crosswords? Give him a little slack, sure. The host of The Price Is Right? No.
I got your points in the earlier post you made, but you should have made them clearer before instead of having me assume something that wasn't the case. You failed to do that.
You do realize, I hope, that you and Odor are the only ones who didn't get his point from the get-go, right? No, of course you don't.
/this won't end well
-
[quote name=\'clemon79\' post=\'191351\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 02:23 PM\']
[quote name=\'PYLdude\' post=\'191339\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 12:04 PM\']
My point is that it was his first year on the job and he's still getting acclimated. Give him a LITTLE slack.[/quote]
See, this isn't an entry-level position. That's the thing. Far, FAR from it. Drew is at the minimum making as much as Joe Thornton makes playing for the Sharks. Nobody in San Jose ever looked at Joe and said "aw, he's new to the teal jersey, give him some time." Nor should they have.[/quote]
Far be it for me to defend Palmer, but I don't think you could stretch it much farther than this.
I hope, that you and Odor
Name's Mark, k, thx.
-
[quote name=\'Modor\' post=\'191353\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 12:27 PM\']
Far be it for me to defend Palmer, but I don't think you could stretch it much farther than this.[/quote]
Really? Tell me the difference.
Name's Mark, k, thx.
Mine's (http://\"http://gameshow.ipbhost.com/index.php?act=ST&f=2&t=15309&hl=Lemon&view=findpost&p=184016\") Chris (http://\"http://gameshow.ipbhost.com/index.php?act=ST&f=16&t=14964&hl=Lemon&view=findpost&p=179638\"). Pleased (http://\"http://gameshow.ipbhost.com/index.php?act=ST&f=2&t=13253&hl=Lemon&view=findpost&p=157794\") to (http://\"http://gameshow.ipbhost.com/index.php?act=ST&f=2&t=8144&hl=Lemon&view=findpost&p=88378\") meetcha (http://\"http://gameshow.ipbhost.com/index.php?act=ST&f=4&t=6725&hl=Lemon&view=findpost&p=70917\").
-
[quote name=\'clemon79\' post=\'191351\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 02:23 PM\']
[quote name=\'PYLdude\' post=\'191339\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 12:04 PM\']
My point is that it was his first year on the job and he's still getting acclimated. Give him a LITTLE slack.[/quote]
See, this isn't an entry-level position. That's the thing. Far, FAR from it. Drew is at the minimum making as much as Joe Thornton makes playing for the Sharks. Nobody in San Jose ever looked at Joe and said "aw, he's new to the teal jersey, give him some time." Nor should they have..[/quote]
Was Drew Carey one of the better scorers in the National Hockey League? No. He was a stand up comedian whose game show hosting experience was minimal, if not nonexistent (I don't know how many episodes of Power of 10 Drew did before CBS called him for The Price Is Right).
Straw.
You were a guy who was saying that Drew Gets It...might I say you sound more like the Barker bunch now?
You do realize, I hope, that you and Odor are the only ones who didn't get his point from the get-go, right? No, of course you don't.
Well, if he made his point a little more clearly, we wouldn't have HAD that problem, now would've we?
I know, never let facts get in the way of a good snark...
-
[quote name=\'PYLdude\' post=\'191356\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 03:42 PM\']
(I don't know how many episodes of Power of 10 Drew did before CBS called him for The Price Is Right).[/quote]
I'd be willing to wager after the first set taped (was that 6?)
He did host that quazi-show Play for a Billion, and was ringmaster on Whose Line.
-
[quote name=\'tpirfan28\' post=\'191358\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 02:46 PM\']
[quote name=\'PYLdude\' post=\'191356\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 03:42 PM\']
(I don't know how many episodes of Power of 10 Drew did before CBS called him for The Price Is Right).[/quote]
I'd be willing to wager after the first set taped (was that 6?)
He did host that quazi-show Play for a Billion, and was ringmaster on Whose Line.
[/quote]
Yeah, but Whose Line really wasn't a GAME SHOW, per se, more than a panel/variety show...
Maybe you can count Play for a Billion.
-
[quote name=\'PYLdude\' post=\'191356\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 12:42 PM\']
Was Drew Carey one of the better goal scorers in the National Hockey League. No.[/quote]
No. (Though I have heard he has a soft touch with the stick and a great move to the left side of the net.) But he was one of the more successful television personalities of his era, being hired to be a television personality. The two situations are absolutely comparable. Identical? No. Comparable? Yes.
You were a guy who was saying that Drew Gets It...might I say you sound more like the Barker bunch now?
You might (hell, it wouldn't surprise me a bit if you did), but you'd be wrong. I still think he Gets It. I just agree that for the stupid money they're paying him, he ought to be a little more polished by now.
Well, if he made his point a little more clearly, we wouldn't have HAD that problem, now would've we?
Holy God.
-
[quote name=\'clemon79\' post=\'191361\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 02:50 PM\']
[quote name=\'PYLdude\' post=\'191356\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 12:42 PM\']
Was Drew Carey one of the better goal scorers in the National Hockey League. No.[/quote]
No. (Though I have heard he has a soft touch with the stick and a great move to the left side of the net.) But he was one of the more successful television personalities of his era, being hired to be a television personality. The two situations are absolutely comparable. Identical? No. Comparable? Yes.[/quote]
Agree to disagree for me. I don't see the similarities. I really don't.
You were a guy who was saying that Drew Gets It...might I say you sound more like the Barker bunch now?
You might (hell, it wouldn't surprise me a bit if you did), but you'd be wrong. I still think he Gets It. I just agree that for the stupid money they're paying him, he ought to be a little more polished by now.
I do agree with that much (and I wish it had been said and made clearer earlier so I didn't waste a rant thanks to a misinterpretation of somebody's point). Certain things (the pacing, the Showcase) do irk me a bit, but I'm more willing to cut him slack because it was one year. I'm gonna relay something that was said in a recent convo between me and a forum member through IMs...if he KEEPS doing it and doesn't improve on what he's doing, then there's gonna be a problem.
I'm not gonna predict what Drew's gonna do next season- no reason to do so, because no way to know. However, I do think that he knows what he needs to improve on and I'm sure that he'll be working on it. Whether he succeeds, well...
-
My personal take on Drew this year has been this....no matter WHO was picked to go into this job, they'd have the same issues.
Barker looked kind of robotic in 1972, and it took him HOW long to make the show his?
We have to give Drew credit for a couple of things:
1. He's not phoning it in, he's giving it his all.
2. He has brought more energy to the show than Barker was able to give.
Let's face it, Drew ain't perfect, but he's alot better than the alternatives.
-
[quote name=\'Terry K\' post=\'191412\' date=\'Jul 19 2008, 11:34 PM\']
My personal take on Drew this year has been this....no matter WHO was picked to go into this job, they'd have the same issues.[/quote]
I don't think that's necessarily the case. Or if it is it's a sad commentary on the state of Hollywood today.
I always go back to Kevin O'Connell on Go. Here's a guy who ALSO has never hosted a game show before, and he looked like the job fit him like a glove on the very first day.
Take away Drew Carey's fame and face recognition, and are you seriously telling me that there is nobody in Hollywood who could be doing the job more smoothly at this point in the game? Hell, I would suggest that there are people on this FORUM who would have it more down at this point.
Let me state again: I like Drew Carey as the host of TPiR. But I think he's also capable of being more than he currently is.
Let's face it, Drew ain't perfect, but he's alot better than the alternatives.
Two of the names we tossed around before Barker retired: Marc Summers. Todd Newton. Chuck Woolery's name came up at one point during the host search. Michael Burger.
Do you think Drew's doing a better job than you think any of those people would have done?
-
[quote name=\'Terry K\' post=\'191412\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 02:34 AM\']
1. He's not phoning it in, he's giving it his all.
2. He has brought more energy to the show than Barker was able to give.
[/quote]
I'm a big Drew defender, but there are GOBS of moments and episodes over the season where these two statements couldn't appear farther from the truth. Love the guy, but the feeling seems to be not one of "Drew always sucked" but more of "Drew should be further along than he is." A lot of people commended him for what he could do right out of the barrel with the first shows...then he got a little more comfortable...then it seemed for the longest time there was no movement on the graph. He was only putting out so much energy, so much effort, etc. Come the end of the season, I saw some great performances, but they weren't every day still.
-Jason
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Two of the names we tossed around before Barker retired: Marc Summers. Todd Newton. Chuck Woolery's name came up at one point during the host search. Michael Burger.
I have it on very high authority that everyone at Fremantle thought Mark L. Walberg was "the one", but CBS didn't see it that way and wouldn't give him an audition in 33 (instead they were "investing" in Dave Price). So Drew is in large part CBS' doing.
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[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191429\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 02:26 PM\']
I have it on very high authority that everyone at Fremantle thought Mark L. Walberg was "the one"
[/quote]
I certainly wouldn't have dismissed it out of hand. Man's quick on his feet and a good TV personality - an ability to host just about anything. He could have done well.
-Jason
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[quote name=\'JasonA1\' post=\'191430\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 02:34 PM\']
[quote name=\'chris319\' post=\'191429\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 02:26 PM\']
I have it on very high authority that everyone at Fremantle thought Mark L. Walberg was "the one"
[/quote]
I certainly wouldn't have dismissed it out of hand. Man's quick on his feet and a good TV personality - an ability to host just about anything. He could have done well.
-Jason
[/quote]
Mark is a little too smart alecky on the shows I've seen him on, but maybe it was the nature of the shows. It worked out okay, I guess. He's got MOT and TP to keep him busy.
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[quote name=\'Jimmy Owen\' post=\'191433\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 11:40 AM\']
He's got MOT and TP to keep him busy.
[/quote]
Plus, he's still got Antiques Roadshow... ;)
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[quote name=\'Jimmy Owen\' post=\'191433\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 01:40 PM\']
Mark is a little too smart alecky on the shows I've seen him on, but maybe it was the nature of the shows. It worked out okay, I guess. He's got MOT and TP to keep him busy.
[/quote]
I thought he was terrific on "Russian Roulette"--exactly the right amount of smart alecky, but I agree that's too much for TPIR.
The thing Drew gives that the Marks, Burger and Newton and don't is a measure of celebrity. I think the ratings would have fallen even further with any of them. TPIR with Drew has a lot more going for it than TPIR with some guy who isn't Barker, even if he hasn't mastered all the skill of hosting.
And Woolery's charm is that he's not always on top of things, which is only charming as long as it's a simple game, not 75 different games in one.
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[quote name=\'Neumms\' post=\'191435\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 12:26 PM\']
The thing Drew gives that the Marks, Burger and Newton and don't is a measure of celebrity. I think the ratings would have fallen even further with any of them.[/quote]
I don't think I disagree. Which is why the angle I'm approaching this discussion from is to remove that from the equation and focus solely on job performance.
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Do you think Drew's doing a better job than you think any of those people would have done?
Answering this, I think, requires a better definition of "a better job".
Is it just about running the show smoothly? If so, then, yeah, Drew does have moments where he's less than smooth. The way the current format of the show is, he needs to run it like a railroad; if it derails even a little bit, the rest of the show is a rush job to try and stay on schedule.
Is it about making the studio audience happy? If so, he's doing a fine job.
Is it about carrying the proper energy level the show demands, day in and day out? If so, he has his ups and downs: one day, very slow and deliberate, and the next day, cracking jokes like mad and bouncing around.
Is it about keeping the viewers? If so, he's managed to keep about 85% of Bob's audience (and I'd be interested to see the demographics on the dropoff), which doesn't sound too bad to me.
Drew is not a perfect, polished host, but that's OK to me, because he does a good enough job of hosting, and brings a completely different energy to the show that makes it feel fresh all over again. I think if they hire any of those other names, they would be more of a "replacement" host, put there to try and be the next best thing to Bob. Would they be smooth, free of awkward moments and poised on the reveals? Sure. However, the audience would surely respond with "you can try, but you sir are no Bob Barker" and turn off in droves.
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[quote name=\'Speedy G\' post=\'191446\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 01:50 PM\']
Drew is not a perfect, polished host, but that's OK to me, because he does a good enough job of hosting, and brings a completely different energy to the show that makes it feel fresh all over again.[/quote]
I agree. The point everyone else is discussing is whether, at this point, he should be better than he is.
Is your answer to that question "no, because this is what Drew Carey is, and that's good enough for me?" 'Cuz that's a fair answer, if that's what you think, but I'm just trying to get what you think straight.
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I have to say that, overall, I've been very pleased with the way Drew has handled the show. I was so glad to see he didn't try to go and be "the next Bob Barker" and made the show his own with his style and sense of humor, both of which I enjoy (yes; I admit I enjoyed The DC Show...well, before it got so outlandish).
That being said, however, I do cut him some slack for having to learn one of the busiest shows on television, but not all slack. I couldn't agree more with the points about him being overpaid, though, so, that aside, yes; I do think he could be more polished, especially with the reveals for showcase winners (and especially DSW's) and some of the other little things like game rules (but, heck; even Barker wasn't batting 1.000 on those!).
BUT, I will say that I've probably enjoyed watching TPIR more this season than in most any other season. Do I think that Drew was the best choice out of all the names batted around? Probably not (my vote was for Summers), but he's definitely been a good one, and I'm happy to defend that choice to my family and friends who just can't stomach the show without Barker.
However, if I knew they were going to pay him so much, then I should've auditioned...heck; they gave Mario Lopez...and...ugh...Dave Price cracks at it...;)
Anthony
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[quote name=\'clemon79\' post=\'191447\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 04:55 PM\']
[quote name=\'Speedy G\' post=\'191446\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 01:50 PM\']
Drew is not a perfect, polished host, but that's OK to me, because he does a good enough job of hosting, and brings a completely different energy to the show that makes it feel fresh all over again.[/quote]
I agree. The point everyone else is discussing is whether, at this point, he should be better than he is.
Is your answer to that question "no, because this is what Drew Carey is, and that's good enough for me?" 'Cuz that's a fair answer, if that's what you think, but I'm just trying to get what you think straight.
[/quote]
The impression I've got from the thread is that "better than he is" actually means "should be better at Price is Right hosting mechanics than this after a year of experience", but I could be wrong about that.
He could be "better", I guess, but I don't think it would make much positive difference with the way he's hosting the show. I prefer Drew being Drew over Drew trying too hard to be perfect at everything like Bob; and it's such a chasm between Bob and Drew that it would probably be counterproductive to be significantly "better" at this point.
If his time on Whose Line is any indication, where he gradually slid into the role over a couple of seasons, I think his progress to date is fine, and there's plenty more progress to come. A few years from now, we'll see.
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[quote name=\'Speedy G\' post=\'191488\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 07:48 PM\']
He could be "better", I guess, but I don't think it would make much positive difference with the way he's hosting the show. I prefer Drew being Drew over Drew trying too hard to be perfect at everything like Bob; and it's such a chasm between Bob and Drew that it would probably be counterproductive to be significantly "better" at this point.[/quote]
Fair enough. I absolutely respect your right to an opinion. I don't know if I necessarily agree with it, but I respect your right to have it.
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[quote name=\'clemon79\' post=\'191447\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 03:55 PM\']
I agree. The point everyone else is discussing is whether, at this point, he should be better than he is.
Is your answer to that question "no, because this is what Drew Carey is, and that's good enough for me?" 'Cuz that's a fair answer, if that's what you think, but I'm just trying to get what you think straight.
[/quote]
Yeah, he should be smoother. Maybe it's because they haven't had to break in a new host since Dougie Davidson 12 years ago. Maybe because this is one guy that they had to lure to the job, not an eager audition candidate. Maybe Roger Dobkowitz critiqued Drew's performance once too often.
It doesn't help that Drew's most-watched episodes are the prime-time affairs he taped with the flu. (And the poorly thought-out $1M rules.)
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[quote name=\'Terry K\' post=\'191412\' date=\'Jul 20 2008, 02:34 AM\']Barker looked kind of robotic in 1972, and it took him HOW long to make the show his?[/quote]I've heard this from a few people, but having recently scored a copy of the TPIR DVD set at a bargain price that even Alice Conkwright couldn't refuse, I beg to differ. The first episode on the DVD (which, as we all know, is not the first episode aired but is still from the first week) shows a somewhat stiff, mechanical Barker. However, the next one, taped just five days later, has him much looser. Less than a month into the taping schedule he was varying his throws to Johnny for the next contestant call and item up for bids, joking around with the contestants, and even putting a poor nervous woman through his patented false reveal routine in the Showcase. Was he as smooth and as comfortable as he would later become? No. But he was at least as far along in a month as Drew has gotten in a year. Some of this is attributable to all his experience hosting Truth or Consequences and the limited number of games that were in use on TPIR at the time, but it can't all be that.
I say this as an admitted Barkerphile but one who thinks Drew's doing a decent job. I merely agree with those who think he still has much room for improvement and probably should have improved a bit more quickly than he has. I hope he attains the level of competence of Bob at his peak while still retaining the qualities that make him stand out from all the Gus Glitzes who think they are Bob's natural heirs.