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Wednesday, October 5, 2005
3:23 am
133 Comments
Buckle up everyone. We’re taking another ride down the interstate as The Amazing Race: Family Edition, or as I like to call it, The Amazing Race: 50 Nifty United States Edition, heads all the way from… Pennsylvania to Egypt? No. France? No. East Timor? No. BETTER. Columbia! (District of, that is.) Yes, this ever so national race kept things local yet again as the teams headed south to the DC and then off to Virginia. But, for what it’s worth, if you accept that this season will be more on the quaint, non-adventurous side, it still managed to be pretty exciting, especially in the final moments as teams scrambled for the finish line. I guess I can never be too upset with The Amazing Race. It’s like a dog that tracked mud into the house. Sure I’m annoyed, but I love it anyway. Unless it’s a really, really small yapping dog. Then I hate it (I’m looking at you, Breaking Bonaduce).This leg of the race started off in the heart of Amish country, home of Rumpspringa, Witness, and the new sport taking the country by storm: DangerBuggy! Last week, Mrs. Weaver fell victim to the runaway cart. Who would be felled tonight??
Anyway, we quickly learned that teams would be heading to York, PA to find Shoehouse road and a giant, uh, shoe-house. Whoa, that has “Buggy Catastrophe” written all over it. Phil then elaborated for us: “Teams must now drive approximately fifteen miles.” STOP THE PRESSES! Fifteen miles? Let’s not go crazy here. You can’t expect any normal human being to drive that distance, let alone children! This season is crazy hardcore.
The Godlewskis were first out of the gate, and props to them for stopping at Kinkos to get matching shirts with pictures of themselves on the front. To think that I insinuated last week that they were annoying…
Leaving not long after were the Gaghans, featuring Dakota Fanning. Oh wait, I mean Carissa. “They see us as a threat now,” said the mom. Well, it’s understandable. Your daughter does seem to be the devil’s spawn. And speaking of religious figures, the Weavers left next, which meant a small pep talk in the car. “We all need to give 100%,” said the widow mother. Uh, and don’t forget to look out for those runaway buggies. You just know Jesus won’t be happy until he smotes you with one again.
The Schroeders left next, I believe, and daughter Stassi (pronounced Stacy) explained, “We’re not as prepared as we thought we were.” Yeah, seriously. Too bad you didn’t bring along a handicapped kid to stop traffic for you.
Anyway, as the first batch of teams headed off, it took about .329 seconds before The Widow Weaver called upon a higher authority: “Lord, please help us. In Jesus’s name, please help us, God.” Look, last time you distracted Jesus from helping out with Katrina, you got attacked by the Amish equivalent of a Mac truck. Don’t push your luck.
My heart instantly warmed when the Paolos ran out of the gate, and unsurprisingly, they were already bickering. “My mother’s nagging is constant,” complained DJ, “She just drives me nuts.” Yeah, it’s kind of like how America feels when they hear… you. Wow, I really dissed him there.
Well, first to arrive at the shoe house (it was literally a house designed to look like a shoe) were the Gaghans. Dad hopped out of the SUV and ran around to the cluebox, but you know, maybe they should have sent Carissa. After all, she can out-run most adults, DIDN’T YOU KNOW??
Nevertheless, the dad found the clue and learned that teams would now have to travel to DC, find the reflecting pool at the capitol, and search the surroundings for the next route marker. You know, we’ve hit up the Statue of Liberty, historic Philadelphia, and soon Washington DC. After tonight, what other patriotic things are there to do? Go to a veterans hospital? Hit up Disney World? It would be cool if Bertram Van Munster got all European on us and started making scathing statements about American culture. “Teams must now travel to McDonald’s because that’s all American life is: fast food, fat people.”
Arriving soon after at the shoe house were the Weavers, who still seemed to be on God’s good side this episode. Mom sent her son out to fetch the clue, imploring, “Go to the top of the shoe house. Up the stairs, baby. You’ll be closer to Jesus.” Okay, she didn’t say that about Jesus, but you know she was thinking it. Once they opened their clue, however, I started to think that prayers might be in order. Prayers for education. “What state is it in? Washington?” asked one of the daughters. Dear God, when you’re done helping all the hurricane victims, could you send the Weaver kids to a nearby library? Thanks.
Speaking of the hurricane, Team Louisiana, a.k.a. The Rogers family, headed out to DC, but we knew problems were ahead when dad instructed his son to take 30 East to 83 South. Suddenly, there was a random SLOW-MO OF DEATH which meant that this would lead to certain disaster, or the editors were just bored and toying with us. Sure enough, it was the former as every team found 83 South except the Rogers. This made Dad very upset as he scolded his son, “You’re responsible for finding 83 South.” Or else? Will he be fired from the family? Nevertheless, Brett or Bo or Brick or whatever his name was told his dad “We didn’t pass it though… I did not see it!” Well, then clearly you didn’t pass it. Everyone knows you only pass things you see.
Actually, it turned out the son was correct. It was dad who was in the wrong. They should never have taken 30 East, I think. Luckily, pops owned up to it. “We took our eye off the ball. We said 83 south to the driver, and we passed up the exit.” The driver? You mean your son, right? It’s okay. You don’t have to protect his identity. We saw the whole thing.
Suddenly we cut to a giant road map of America, and the sad realization hit me that this was what would have to pass for the much-loved airport diagram. Honestly, it’s just not as fun. Anyway, the Gaghans arrived at the reflecting pool first and began scouring the area. “We need some good eyes,” Mom told Carissa. C’mon, you know she only responds to “WHEELS!! WHEELS!! WHEELS!!!”
Meanwhile, in the Weaver vehicle, the sad state of American edumacation became even more apparent as one daughter looked out the window at the capitol and asked, “Is that the capitol?” No. It’s just a really ornate Cheesecake Factory. Seriously, how could you not know the capitol building? I really might have to pray for these people after all.
Well, after seeing the Weavers flip out over a parking spot, we then learned that after receiving the clue, teams would have to rendez-vous with a limo on Third Street, receive a suitcase from an unseen contact and then… assassinate someone? No. Just take the briefcase to the Tidal Basin for the next clue. The Weavers were on top of this like Jesus on a cross, but less successful were the Gaghans who couldn’t even find the initial clue box at the reflecting pool. That’s because they were at the Washington Monument Reflecting Pool, not the Capitol Reflecting Pool. Gotta read those clues carefully. Luckily, Billy Gaghan had a hot lead. “Wait a minute! What’s that?” he asked optimistically before retracting with, “Oh, that’s a no smoking sign. Never mind.” See, this is why kids shouldn’t be allowed to go on the race.
The Schroeders quickly figured out that they were at the wrong reflecting pool, but when they passed by the Gaghans, they merely threw up their hands as if to say, “We don’t know either.” It’s one of my favorite Amazing Race techniques. It’s always good for some confusion and usually works wonders on old people too. I think Gretchen and Meredith fell for it about three times an episode last season.
Paolo Update! As expected, the entire family was bickering, mostly because Ma kept harping on the need for gas. This of course led to a near-WWIII situation as everyone yelled and screamed in the car. Even Dad, who had spent last week mostly silent, was making noise tonight. I couldn’t help wondering though: where was Marion’s fancy neck kerchief? That bad boy better come back. Oh, and if this team loses because they didn’t get gas, I will be very unhappy.
At the Tidal Basin, it was time for the first Roadblock of the season, and it was pretty hilarious. Participants had to take their briefcases and search the area for “spies” carrying identical briefcases. Unfortunately, even though there were many people dressed like spies, only ten were “confirmed” spies. Furthermore, Roadblockers had to say, “The sky is blue,” and if the person responded with “The sea is green,” a briefcase exchange would take place, and inside the new case would be the next clue. Okay, I give this challenge five minutes before Homeland Security ambushes it.
Well, teams began filtering in, and we watched the awkward display of racers telling strangers “The sky is blue.” I would have loved it if there were an actual spy walking around, waiting for that exact code phrase to be spoken to him. Hmmm… average guy approaches a spy because he thinks he’s part of a reality show, then gets recruited into an international scandal? Sounds like we got ourselves a sequel to The Man! And you thought Eugene Levy and Samuel L. Jackson would never revisit those roles.
Eventually the Paolos arrived at the Roadblock, and as DJ headed off to find his spy, Marion said, “Take your time, relax.” This prompted her son to yell, “MOM! PLEASE!” Seriously, that gentle, caring encouragement was totally ridiculous on her part. She should really learn.
Anyway, the Godlewski family was the first team to make contact with a spy, and wait, was that Nina from 24? Must have been wishful thinking. Anyway, we learned that teams must now head off to Middleburg, VA and find an old antebellum estate called Welbourne Manor. Wow. This episode went from PA to MD to DC to VA. Three states and a district! This season is en fuego!
Later, DJ Paolo finally got a clue from a black guy, causing the punk to happily say, “I love you, my brother.” It’s a good thing he didn’t add, “And I can say that because I know a Black family.” Sorry, I’m going to milk that joke for as long as I can. It’s not fair we were robbed of it so early in the season.
Undercover Brother
Back at the wrong reflecting pool, the Gaghans may have had WHEELS, but they certainly didn’t have a clue. Literally. They were still poking around. In a similar situation were the Bransens, who were slowed by patriarch Walter, or WalDER, as the kids call him. C’mon WalDER. Don’t disappoint your hottie daughters. Meanwhile, now that the Paolos were back on the open road, their gas situation had become significantly more dire. “I guess they don’t pump gas in freakin’ VA,” yelled DJ. How about you shut up and listen to your mother when she tells you to get gas. But at least they weren’t as screwed as the Rogers, who still hadn’t even arrived at the reflecting pool. Man, a lot of dumbness tonight.
Well, after the commercial break, the Bransens finally realized they were at the wrong place, and as they headed off, the Rogers arrived and talked with the Gaghans. Big mistake. The Louisiana family basically tipped off the Gaghans that they were at the wrong location. Both teams headed to the other reflecting pool, but the Rogers got lost for the umpteenth time, firmly placing them at the back of the pack. Oh, and the Paolos finally got gas. Yay!
Over at the Roadblock, the Gaghans made up huge amounts of time. Momma Tammy headed out to find a spy, which she did very quickly, and I was fairly amused by her quiet whisper, “The sky is blue.” Um, this isn’t a real spy mission. You know that, right? As for the Bransens, even though WalDER could hardly keep up, the girls still let him do the Roadblock, which probably would rank as one of their “blonder” decisions. And speaking of dumb decisions, DJ Paolo had somehow gotten the fam all turned around because before they knew it, they were passing the Pentagon again and heading back into DC. This prompted a minor Marion outburst as she yelled, “None of you ever EVER EVER listen to me!!!” Not as good as last week’s insanity but still worthy of a fond place in my dreams tonight.
Our weekly Marion fix.
Well, we may not have airplane drama this season, but at least we’ve got more traffic to contend with, and sure enough, the highway to Welbourne Manor was clogged with commuters. It was the great equalizer, as one woman called it. Most people just sat in their lanes, but crafty teams like those Cincinatti Superstars, the Linz family, snuck off onto local roads and significantly boosted their position. Meanwhile, the Rogers daughter completed the Roadblock, and if Tammy Gaghan was a bit too quiet, this girl was the exact opposite. She jumped up and down in joy and jubilation, thus proving that she would make a terrible covert spy in real life. Unless, of course, she was a real spy posing as a reality star so she could pass important documents over right under our very noses. BEST SPY EVER!
The Weavers and Godlewskis arrived at Welbourne Manor first and soon encountered this leg’s Detour: “Heat of the battle or heat of the night.” Basically, a giant Civil War reenactment was raging in the house’s backyard, and teams had to decide between two common battlefield tasks. In “battle,” teams had to rush onto the field with stretchers and carry injured bodies over to a surgical tent. In “night,” teams had to roll an oil barrel to a work station, fill up twenty lamps, brings them to a table, and light them all. At the end of either detour, teams would then have to carry a flag down a road, at the bottom of which they’d find the next Pit Stop. Phil elaborated: “And they’ll find me, here in this meadow.” And what a lovely thing to find in a meadow! An errant Phil Koeghan, grazing in the wild!
Phil and his new sidekick, Jed.
Well, the Godlewskis opted for the triage while the Weavers headed to the lanterns. Odds that a random buggy will steamroll the Weavers? 2 to 1.
Anyway, the Linz family arrived third, clearly benefiting from some backroad navigation. Just another example of how unpredictable and wonderful this show is, even in this watered-down season. The Weavers seemed to be doing well with the lamps, although they did face some setbacks: “How do you light ‘em?” asked a daughter. Duh! Through the radiance of Jesus, of course!
Well, Jesus walked with the Weavers this time around as they took first place. Amazingly, Rob and Amber still managed to win a prize. Okay, okay, I’m just kidding. The Weavers snagged themselves a nifty trip to Bermuda, and honestly, that was pretty cool for them. We may joke a lot on this site, but the poor kids lost their dad, and at least now they have something to show for their Amazing Race trip.
Weavers First! Superstars! Do you think they’re what they say they are?
Now, I wish I could sit here and continue to be nice and everything, but I had a pressing question: WHERE ARE MY PAOLOS?? They were still on the road, I guess, but for now we can focus on the old men, who were struggling with the Detour. First, WalDER could barely hold up his end of the stretcher, and then Tony of the Aiello family announced that he was “wicked tired.” What really made this sad, however, was that the Gaghan family pushed their robotic children to do the triage option with them. Has the notion of “too much” ever occurred to these parents? Amazingly though, the Gaghans rocked this challenge. Carissa didn’t really do much (she’s more Cheetara, less Panthro), but the other three picked up her slack and managed to eventually deliver five “patients” to the surgical tent. As for the team standings, the Linz family arrived second place on the heels of the Weavers. In third were the Godlewskis, followed by the Schroeders, and the Aiellos. Despite WalDER’s huffing and puffing, the Bransens placed sixth, followed by the Gaghans at seventh.
Now it was time for things to get really exciting. The Paolos finally arrived at the Detour and were followed (according to the editing) by the Rogers close behind. Here’s the thing. The Rogers have little to no personality. If they beat out the Paolos, ensuring my second of three favorite teams going home in a row, I’d be very upset. A lot hinged on this Detour. The Paolos opted for the Heat of Battle, and so did the Rogers, but they eventually switched after their mom said she couldn’t hack it. Also having problems was Marion Paolo, causing her husband and boys to alternately spur her on with more yelling. Look, if the Gaghans can do this with essentially two adults and one child, I think the Paolo men can somehow compensate for Ma’s shortcomings.
The action then kicked into overdrive as we cut back and forth between the two families. Who would win? The Rogers seemed to have the lead (eighteen, nineteen, twenty lamps lit), but the Paolos got the official “Task Complete” title first. Would this be a foot race? It sure looked like one, although, a keen eye could tell there was a lot of nifty editing going on. Still, you never know, and as the Paolos lightly jogged down the road, I began to share the yelling dad’s sentiments. RUN DAMMIT!
Well, luckily for me, justice reigned, and the Paolos arrived first. And, for once, one of the Paolo kids had something nice to say about his mother. Kind of. “She’s a fighter. She complains about everything, but she comes through in the clutch.” For the record, that wasn’t DJ who said that. Also for the record, it seems like DJ is the prime douchebag of the two.
Sadly, at least for them, the Rogers were eliminated by MeadowPhil, causing tears and disappointment by all. Brock was especially disheartened, mostly because he felt no one in his family listened to him or showed any signs of flexibility. And by “no one,” he clearly meant “my dad.” Oh well. Sorry guys, but you just weren’t very interesting, even despite your potentially controversial gender outlooks. What did you think? Were you sad to see the Rogers go?
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133 Comments
I find myself torn over who will come in last. I want nearly half the teams at this point in the race to be gone. I wish that they had a double, tripple or even quadrupple elimination last night to weed out some of the annoyance.
Though I am sad to see that Rogers dad gone, he was sure to expound more 18th century virtues. And the fat guy who couldn’t keep up with the three daughters was down right pathetic.
They should leave mamma Paola at a rest stop. She is just annoying (just like her sons).
The ‘desperate houswives’ comment was pretty good. And those Gahgins should be lucky that they didn’t come in last. They were the only team to be disappointed when they hit the mat. Those kids are gonna be emotionally traumatized when they do finish last.
Great job B!!
It would be cool if Bertram Van Munster got all European on us and started making scathing statements about American culture. “Teams must now travel to McDonalds because that’s all American life is: fast food, fat people.”
Now that would have been funny as hell to see!!!
B-side, Maybe you should pitch that to CBS instead of this trainwreck.
By the radiance of Jesus, best recap EVER!!!
Don’t forget about DJ’s in-depth scrutiny of the briefcases before he said the code phrase. CLASSIC!
TAR has jumped the shark or more likely the whole Altantic Ocean.
I felt as if I was watching the civil war historical segment of Sesame Street.
Between the dumbed down race sequences, challenges that are all but challenging and the annoying families I can’t take it. TAR had been DEL from my TIVO.
I don’t care if they’re not getting on planes and flying off to exotic places, this show is still extremely entertaining!! Look at all the reshots they gave us of Mama Paolo in her glasses! They know what we crave!
The ending was very exciting. I kept thinking of how heartbroken B-Side would be if the Paolos were eliminated. Jesus must like you, B-Side! But he likes the Weavers better.
At the roadblocks if all you do is tell someone “the sky is blue” and they give you the clue. That’s not a Roadblock. It’s a cakewalk.
A true roadblock would be to have the youngest member of each team actually get into the reflecting pool to retrieve the clue which is weighed down by 10 – 100 pound rocks. That is a roadblock. Can you imagine these people having to search that large pool looking for the clue under the right sized rock they could carry.
Of course that would never happen because of Homeland Security but come on producers, have some creativity here besides “the sky is blue�, filling up lanterns and carrying dead soldiers.
Thank God the booooring Rogerses and their Jerk Dad are gone. I felt bad for the teenage son. Now if the other snoozefest family: WalDer & Daughters are eliminated, we can enjoy the rest of the teams racing onwards to such exciting tourist traps as Wall Drug, South Dakota, and South of The Border, South Carolina.
HARK! Did I hear the Gagging family father say – We’ve been here for 2 hours walking all around the reflecting pool and can’t find the clue???
As usual, terriffic recap of another quasi boring episode B-side! Next week I’ll switch between TAR & “My Name is Earl”….
Taking away the whole element of dealing with the unknown – be it trying to figure out directions and obscure locations in foreign languages, dealing with tricky trans-continental flights, rickety old cars prone to breaking down, difficult cab drivers, cramped public transportation, nastay food etc etc – takes away so much from this race. Like how hard is it to drive to DC on an interstate in a brand spankin new SUV, “Woooo, high fives, we found the clearly marked turn-off, to the bigass city,” uhhh, Rogers family excepted.
And too many squealing girls.
It just plain SUCKS!
This season is like having a really good friend for years and then your friend gets really sick for a long time and strains your relationship and you love them, but they are now SOOOOOOOO annoying and maybe they’re coughing and hacking all over you and whining and asking you to get stuff for them and you don’t have time and you don’t know if you can hang around til they’re well, but you just keep telling yourself hang in there and everything will be OK….SO HANG IN THERE AND EVERYTHING WILL BE OK!!! Your friend will recover and maybe we’ll get All-Stars
Very encouraging, Chris! (which I must say is particularly close to – hmmmm, who could it be? – CHRIST! Ah, he moves in mysterious ways, ala Weavers!)
The Jesus Christ Superstar reference on the Weaver photo was LOL funny! Thanks B-side!
“Lord, please help us. In Jesus’s name, please help us, God.” Look, last time you distracted Jesus from helping out with Katrina, you got attacked by the Amish equivalent of a Mac truck. Don’t push your luck.
HILARIOUS! Great recap!
Personally, I think this season of TAR is great! I love watching the families as they try to work together, and seeing the young children who are so motivated. So what if we don’t have travel to foreign countries? There’s no place better than good ole USA!! Best of luck to the Gaghan family. They are all pulling together with the same goal in mind.
Belinda: Bless You My Child…no errant buggies shall smote you
“Fifty Nifty United States Edition” – LOL
I sang “Fifty Nifty United States” in all-county chorus and I can STILL recite all fifty states in alphabetical order…alabama, alaska, arizona, arkansas, california…hahahaha
I love a good Paolo Pile-On as much the next guy…but I thought “I love you, my brother” was cute in a clueless-how-it-would-come-off/Larry David way. I didn’t discern any ill intent.
Great recap! Did you catch one of the Aiello SIL’s talking about how thrilling it was to witness the Civil War battle because he’s a marine? Is he going to tell us he’s a Marine in every episode? And here’s my big question – how did all nine teams find a place to park right in front of the Capitol? There is NO public parking in front of the Capitol. Very suspicious! Perhaps the spies should investigate!
TAR Family Edition is mildly amusing, but nothing like the regular TAR. I really miss the airport scenes and the foreign adventure. I mean what do we have to look forward to next? Perhaps a roadblock at Crackerbarrel, or maybe a pitstop in Pahrump.
Rated ‘G’ for family, but still providing some good TV watching..I thought that DJ was going to pop a blood vessel when Momma Paolo kept harping on the gas situation, and had to rewind when Phil stated that they would be travelling a whole 15 miles to the next location. Let’s not get crazy here. I was a little sad to see Pa Rogers go as I was loving to hate his uber sexist ways.
“The Weavers were on top of this like Jesus on a cross” killed me.
Plus, “What state is it in? Washington?” and “Is that the capitol?” – I’m thinking there’s definitely some home schooling going on with that family.
All in all. Great recap . . .boring, annoying season. I too am going to switch to “My Name Is Earl” & “The Office”. Haven’t decided whether or not this season is even worth a videotape.
I miss Black family. We could have carried whole recaps on that joke alone.
John B., what home schoolers have you met? All the ones I knew growing up were total nerds who knew way more about geography than the rest of us!
I agree that this season isn’t as interesting as usual. Last night, one Phil voiceover summed it up–”The teams will now drive themselves 35 miles…” instead of “The teams will now travel over 1000 miles” or “The teams must now use the Indian public transportation system.”
Chris(T) – It’s a miracle! TODAY, of all days, it was my turn to watch for errant buggies! A good smote is never put to waste! Thankyou.
When Father Rogers referred to his son as “the driver”, I couldn’t believe it. What a Promise Keeper jerkoff. And mom’s comment when they got eliminated – “it’s my role to pull the family together now” Guess she really did drink the kool-aid.
I was sad to see them go though, because the Rogers girl is smokin’.
I think from here on out I’m a Linz family backer – they seem to be the only people on the show with brains in their skulls.
I’ll miss brock. He’s one of the only hot guys on this season.
This is the first season I have watched TAR and I am loving it. If I had watched previous seasons I am sure I would be dissappointed…but it’s a good introduction to the show…
Ok two things I gotta point out about this episode..1) when the Gaghan boy was complaining that Carissa wasn’t helping in the Detour he said “I want her job” those kids need to be gagged for the rest of the race….and 2) those Weaver girls are sure DUMB and their shorts are sure SHORT…this episode it looked like they were just wearing their UNDERWEAR!! Jesus loves girls who dress like hookers too!
Great Recap B-SIDE
hollyin dc (#18) Did you also notice that there was no cars around the parked limo. I suppose that the street is always devoid of any traffic.
Just another unwanted look at the influence/interference of the producers on this show. It also lends more credence to all the suspicious events of past episodes (i.e. the airplane letting Joyce and Uchenna on).
Please Jebus. Give me the strength to watch this awful ugly step cousin of the bitch I love so much. And please bring back that original hottie in 10 weeks!! All-stars or not (I’d rather not), so long as its not another family edition.
Oh, and Jebus, please provide the Weaver children with an education. The home schooling doesn’t seem to have worked.
~Phil K.
Callygirl – Valid point. I’ve known some very smart home schooled kids, but I think there’s a large number that are getting a bit more Jesus than earthly science (such as Geography). I think many home schooling parents would rather have their child’s face turned up toward the lord than learning about history or god forbid . . . the “theory” of evolution.
Can anyone explain to me how the pit stop on the Family Edition works? I don’t remember Phil explaining the “mandatory Pit stop” speech like previous shows. And did they actually all arrive at the farm between 8pm and 8:45ish PM 12 hours earlier? Or are they dumbing down the legs into ‘day trips’ for the kids. It just seems like the most unlikeliest of time that all the teams are leaving at 8am. I wonder if we’ll see the ‘hours of operation’ signs in this race.
Thanks in advance for any insight into this observation.
There’s too many damn contestants to keep track of to make the Family Edition compelling until it is down to five or six teams. Bring back the old two person teams. Maybe next time have two total strangers be teammates, but NO MORE families.
I knew the Rogers had to go when, right at the end, Mom Rogers said: “I feel like I’m in the middle of a Civil War battle.” As opposed to…?
Oh B-Side “The Weavers were on top of this like Jesus on a cross”, classic.great recap.
Perhaps TAR should rename this Dysfunctional Family Edition.. Ugh, some of these people are so dumb it actually makes my head hurt.
Chris(T) – spoken like a true GODDDDD.
This was hands down one of your best recaps. I am pretty sure the people in my office think I have turret syndrome.
“Is that the capitol?” No. It’s just a really ornate Cheesecake Factory.”
(#31) Chris, I like your idea of having two total strangers run the race with each other. That would make for compelling TV. I think the TAR producers should hire you!
I as well like the idea of having two total strangers run the race. That would make for some brilliant TV.
That guy standing behind Phil at the finish line (whom you named Jed) made me have to complete my own “detour”, nudge nudge wink wink…woof!
Phil K. – I think you’re absolutely right about the day trip factor to this season. So far, in adding the kids they’ve turned this show into a series of middle school field trips. Let’s go to the capitol . . . let’s go see the cute shoe house . . . etc.
I know it’s only the second episode, but I’m really hoping they pull this thing back on track and do some serious travelling. My girlfriend said from Episode 1 that they weren’t going to leave the US and I’m starting to think she may be right.
Come on TAR, prove her wrong (and leave the states) and prove me wrong (don’t let this season suck as much as the first two episodes).
I think it’s pretty sad.. you Americans, when you’re in any other country, you’re sooo patriotic.. but you have a whole season of the amazing race dedicated to your beautiful country and you can’t enjoy it?! there is so much history in america (North America really) and yet you find it boring?.. you should be ashamed.. i wish they did a whole season on Canada..
Mariana – Yes, America is very pretty and filled with history, but at the beginning of the show in every other season they state that it is “a race around the world” not around our neighborhood. The aspect of the show that many of us enjoy is dealing with diverse cultures and the inherent difficulty of not knowing foreign languages. I personally love to travel because it is broadening. There’s no way to learn more about other people (and yourself for that matter) than leaving the land that you’re used to and call home.
You missed the best part when, after being eliminated, Mr. Rogers said something like “I made a mistake and lead our team the wrong way” and “I’m proud of my son” which is why he screamed at his son the entire time he was driving that HE made the mistake….apparantly he forgot that part.
I kept waiting for the ex-Marine Aiello to either hit the ground or whip out his own gun with all the shooting goin on around him…that would have been awesome!
And seriously, I hope they don’t make them all day trips….I would love to see Dakota sleeping on the streets of Detroit waiting for a park to open. Though it still wouldn’t be as good as seeing her crammed into a train in India!
Rob and Amber still won a prize….LOL
and a Thunder Cats reference….Hot!
Wow, I’m glad that I am not the only TAR fan despairing that I will die of boredom this season. The recaps are 1,000 times better than the actual show – I too, may also just switch off the actual show. I hope CBS gets the message not to EVER try this experiment again. At the very least, they could have picked some interesting families (multi-ethnic? personalities?). You know we’re in trouble when the most interesting family is the sterotypical (read annoying) New York/Jersey Italian family…and they are just rude!
Keep up the good work B-side – we’re going to need it to survive the season!
LIONO…HOOOOOOOOOO!
PS – I will also be switching to “My name is Earl” and “The Office” if the next episode is a snoozefest like this one.
Sorry all but I like this season so far. Must say though, I can’t stand the Paolos..too much annoying whining and nagging. Saw the losers on TV this morning and your comments on editing were right on. They said they were way, way behind the 2nd to last team. Oh well, it was exiting anyhow.
Mariana – I am one American who is very happy to see this version of TAR. It gives me an opportunity to see parts of America I have never visited.
Now that we all know that the show is not going outside of North America – we should all just sit back and enjoy the show for what it is. Stop picking it apart every week for failing to do what we know their not going to do.
With that said – B-side, I have to say that I don’t see the appeal that you do for the Paolos – I want them gone, real soon. Next week would be great.
whoever mentioned that the roger’s girl was “smokin’” needs to get their eyes checked. she’s a total monet.
my observations from the show:
1. the young billy gaggin was the one who insisted that they do the triage with the soldiers. i have a feeling he’s the one who wears the pants in that family. i think he may be a bit scarier and more robot-like than his sister dakota.
2. the weaver daughter’s shorts are practically obscene. i hope they win the next leg and the prize is money cause they need to buy her a pair of pants.
3. this season is putting me to sleep!!! they need to leave the US, NOW!!!!
As a longtime fan, I’m willing to give this version another week or so before pronouncing it DOA. I don’t think posters are correct, though, in assuming they’re staying in the US. I expect them to be flying to exotic locales pretty soon. The problem with the approach so far isn’t that it’s all in the USA, it’s that it’s all within a tiny PART of the US. Hell, we’re huge! If they had to make it from rural PA to, say, a desert motel in Arizona, that could work. BTW, I hated the Rogers clan. That poor kid! To have a “Christian” dad who thinks that means he’s to be the boss of everything and to make every minute decision, is driving that bright aware young man nuts!
I am so disheartened by all the negative remarks concerning this edition of TAR taking place in the States. I would have loved to have been one of the families doing this season. So much of our country is made fun of. Please, if you really hate seeing this wonderful country of ours and the historical places that are being showcased, don’t watch. Let those of us who are truely enjoying ourselves vicariously through the racers have some fun without having to listen to such snarky comments.
Tell me, what better place to live than the United States of America?
(I will now climb down from my soapbox)
How is this difficult to understand?
Once you take away all the difficulties that come along with travelling in countries with cultures, customs, languages, and comfort levels very different from our own, and replace, it’s just a completely different show is all. Notwithstanding the fact that the “challenges”, legs, and cushy rest stops are completely lame.
Has anyone else noticed that Daddy Aiello has NO NECK!!!!!!!!????
You know that the Weavers are praying with all their might to go to Atlanta, where they can stand in the shadow of James’ (BB6) mom’s load-bearing Jesus.
James’ mom lives in Ohio
I love the USA. I love TAR. I love me but I wouldn’t make a great reality TV show. I just wish things were a little less elemenentary. I fell in love with TAR because it is three things:
Fast – the action is extreme and challenges are difficult
Flights – The players jockeying and backstabbing each other for positions on the fastest airline and best seats
Foreigners – Love how teams try to navigate a city by communicating with the locals. Always hi-larry-us
But above all, and what makes TAR stand apart from the rest of reality TV junk is that it WAS a show about and for adults. There simply is no room in TAR world for lame preschool type shenanigans.
You know, I’m all for an American race type show, but for The Amazing Race, there’s already a preset level of expectations in terms of scope, obstacles, adventure. This watered down version feels like a step backwards. Now, a show like The Cannonball Run 2001 was awesome because it had fun with the whole notion of going cross country. Plus, teams had to drive jalopies and were oddly mismatched (two frat boys with an old woman, two playboy bunnies with a seminary student). The USA as a backdrop can work, just not as well for The Amazing Race.
First off, those of you without Tivo are missing a great show! The Office was hilarious last night!
I fast forwarded through TAR last night. It is not that they are staying stateside. It is all of the families cheering and talking over one another, as well as the lame tasks that are getting on my last nerve.
It took over 12 hours to find a brief case, go for a short drive then fill lanterns? Amazing, I could go see the Holocaust Museum, two Smithsonian Museums, three memorials, then return to the Mariott in Georgetown for a quick nap and a nice dinner during that time. (Yes, have done just that)
Did, I mention that the Holocaust also had a 1 1/2 hour line that day and it was snowing? Just saying. Step it up on the tasks TAR or lose me forever.
Let me think about this…..travel around the world, live within different cultures, get lost, beg for money OR drive to Yonkers or Salt Lake City – hey maybe even see the LaBrea TAR Pits…gee what would Jesus do?????
Well said, Chronic & America’s Next Top Fan. Isn’t TV supposed to be diverting. I liked this show from the beginning because it offered a look at places and challenges that were out of the realm of every day life. For god’s sake, watching a bunch of bickering families driving around in SUVs getting stuck in traffic…….What in the hell was CBS thinking? Most of us live this awful season on a daily basis (except for the lame challenges). I hope they read the posts in here and realize that this is a failed experiment. I love this country and have travelled to 49 out of 50 states (Alaska – I’ll get to you soon) but stepping out of our comfort zone was what made this show truly unique.
Hey “Family Edition” – You suck.
Agree, B-Side.
The Family Edition is nothing more than an edited/extended version of every middle class American family vacation. When Phil says, “Team then must drive themselves 15 miles to York, Pennsylvania,” I just cringe. The real TAR would make them ride a yak that distance.
I could go on and on about what’s wrong with this whole concept, but I wouldn’t be saying anything new. It looks like they’re on to Florida or maybe Texas next week, so we’ll enjoy a flight from Dulles to, most likely, Orlando. Hey, maybe a Gaghan kid is allergic to the Southwest Peanuts and goes into shock or something.
I’ll still watch. I think.
“The real TAR would make them ride a yak that distance.”
Hahahahahahahahahahahhahaha
The picture of the Weavers winning makes it look like the daughter is bouncing Ma Weaver’s breasts. WWJD? What would Jesus do in this situation?
Overall this season is rather boring. There is such a huge difference between drive 15 miles versus find a glacier in Iceland.
I can understand them spending more time in the US because of the increased logistical concerns of getting so many people around the world, but I would like to see them do more challenging things. In most episodes in prior years, they had to do things that were scary to at least some of the contestants — bungee jump, zip line, ice or rock climb. Heck, even the rolling hamster balls were scarier than what they’ve done so far.
I can’t wait for the real TAR to return!
Staying within the US doesn’t have to be boring. I’ve driven across the US, and I agree with the people who say that there’s plenty of beauty, history, and interest in our country.
But this isn’t a family trip or a Discovery special on the natural beauty of the US. We have too many racers, too few miles covered per episode, tasks that are too boring, and a total lack of cultural, linguistic, and travel-related challenges– no packed trains, no filled-up flights, no customs to clear, no non-English speakers nearby to get help from, no sleeping on the street in a foreign land, no money crunch, no scrambling for a cab, etc.
I actually like Dakota–she seems unusually suited for this, unlike the older Daddies in the bunch(save the end run by 52 Yr old Paolo Dad). I admit The Gagging’s are a peaches and cream family, but it’s hard to hate them when they’re so good-natured, and between the buggy and the soldier-toting, there was nary a complaint (even a good butt workout!)
What made me nuts was the Roger’s Dad setting his son up to fail–aren’t they supposed to be teams!? That is the worst parenting–competing with your children, employing double standards, criticizing them for mistakes which, in fact, turn out to be your own. Couldn’t help but root for poor Brock!
I’ve got to see the recap for last week and see if anyone caught the stroke comment!
Great re-capping, may the radiance of Jesus shine on you all!!!!
Got to agree with graceintherace (#44) – If we’re gonna have these families racing around the US, why do they have to be so homogenous. Not that everything in life has to look like a Coke or Benetton ad, but America is an incredibly diverse country ethnicity-wise. Are we really to believe that no Asian or Latino families applied? If the race isn’t going to be interesting, at least the participants could’ve been.
So…I really REALLY dislike the Gaghan boy. At least his sister is feisty and cocky. I think cocky kids are funny. I really REALLY dislike the Paolo boys. However, Marion Paolo overcompensates for them! (I don’t know why, but I find her bickerings hilarious. Her son’s bickerings are annoying!)I LOVE Marion Paolo! Diss the Weavers all you want…but they’re the team I’m rooting for. I just wish those girls would put on some pants. Finally, as much as I like the traditional TAR, I don’t mind this change…as long as it’s not permanent! P.S. I’m 99.9% sure that they will soon go to a Latin American country (i.e. Panama, Costa Rica, or Belize.) Hurray! We will get to see the families in third world, airport bunching, language barrier situations! So, those who are disappointed in this season….hang in there for a few more episodes!
I’m feeling pretty torn about this season. There are just enough humorous moments to keep me hanging in there, but it’s not the same as the regular version.
For me, it’s not that so far it’s just in the States — I have no issue with that — but it does seem to me to be “Amazing Race Lite” and that’s not what you expect of a successful franchise seven seasons in.
The recaps are rockin’ though and as the less-interesting teams (like the Rogers — that dad was annoying the hell out of me) are eliminated and there are fewer people to keep track of, I’m hoping there’ll be a payoff for sticking with it.
God I am just so depressed. I have been going through BBW (Big Brother Withdrawal) for about a month, now. The only show I was really looking forward to is TAR. I enjoy Survivor- but TAR (when good) is, in my opinion, the best show on television. The Soprano’s will be cool (but come on, were talking March). What the hell??? It is gonna be a cold, long-ass winter here in Minnesota. I know I am rambling… My point is that what the f*** am I going to do all winter without any good TV to watch. I don’t understand why TAR Producers had to go and mess with a perfectly perfect show?! Please someone let’s campaign for an all-stars. I miss the really good, interesting teams. Let’s reminise…Kelly and Jon- Tara and Will- Meredith and Gretchen. Oh yeah, and who was that one scarey Nazi-guy who looked like Chris Cooper and screamed at his wife all the time? Oh hell, I don’t know. I am so depressed I even miss Jonathon and Victoria. Someone with some CBS pull- HELP ME, PLEASE! (Yeah, B-Side, I’m lookin’ at you). We must rise up as a people and protest this Family Edition nonsense.
just to clarify- I didn’t mean REAL Nazi like Hitler Nazi. I meant fake Nazi like The Soup Nazi.
No one commented on the stroke comment–to my dismay. Not only did the Aiello son needlessly say he was going to “keep stroking, is that allright?”
then Papa Aiello chimed, “you can stroke it all you want”
Or something close to that. Guess the producers found this interesting enough to have it written across the screen! Am I the only one to see perverse implications in this exchange!? It was an unusual comment in a family show–No!?
amygirl . . . I’m with you on the all-star, but can’t we have nice cool teams like the “Clowns” Al and Jon! (AR4) or for that matter, Kevin and Drew (AR1)
I did feel a bit sad for them that they weren’t recognized, and they were truly one of my favorites!
Pls, pls, pls, no Jonathan and Victoria–anyone but them!!!!!!!!!
Also, no winners, can’t we give the almosts a second chance! I’d even be happy with a mix-up all-star, teaming up odd pairs from other pairs–you know, kind of like the two strangers idea mentioned here!
I’ve written CBS already, there’s a link on the AR website.
Juddfan (#72)- YES YES YES- EXACTLY!! In my depressed state I forgot about the clowns (I loved them) and of course Kevin and Drew. And actually, Rob and Amber as well- they made it very interesting. And I agree- No previous winners. What else can we do? I don’t work, I’ve got plenty of time. Should I make a sign and go stand outside of Jerry Bruckheimer and Bertram van Munster’s homes? Please Jebus- Guide me in the right direction…
Juddfan – Where did you find a link on the AR website to write to CBS? After last night’s episode I felt like sharing a few thoughts with the idiots that came up with this dud.
Well, I’m jumping the TAR ship… this season is lame, canned, unchallenging and uninteresting. Should be a separate show on the Kidz Network. I’ve watched every season until now… but I’ll trade this season for Geena Davis. Glad some of you are enjoying it… that’s cool.. but (Carrie and others)… you miss our point completely…about traveling the States… I love traveling the good ol’ USA… but that is a totally different experience and encounter of the world than traveling overseas, facing foreign cultures, languages, customs, etc… and most of us think that’s a great thrill.. that does not mean we don’t ‘like’ our country.
This show would be interesting if the Gaghans and Weavers, etc… had to face traffic in Calcutta or Japan, subways in Rome, and rural South Africa. Have them face arranging a few flights on puddle-jumpers. What’s next for our adventurers? A day finding clues in Dollywood? A culturally challenging stint in Colonial Williamsburg repairing bonnets? No thanks… I’ll wait for the Real…thinking, independent, grown-ups, foreign travel loving TAR.
See you all next season.
HEy John B and amygirl!
On the bottom of the site, all the way to the left there’s a feedback link. There you can select your show and make your comment. I should write again and repeat my plea with Kevin and Drew added. (they must like them if they were on the show)
ps. Jon and Al have a site, which I put a link to in the URL (is that the place?)
Oh, here it is too:
http://jonandalracers.com/main.htm
Hasn’t been many posts lately, but I was on there not long ago, and maybe there’ll be more stirring after the re-broadcast on GSN. (I just wish GSN would actually indicate which show they are showing!?)
Okay, I wrote CBS and I’m making my cardboard sign- what else should I do??
Oh Yeah, and I remembered the Crazy Nazi Guy and his wife- Teri and Ian- BRING BACK TERI AND IAN!!!
Most. Boring. TAR. Ever.
Sigh … why? Why take a perfectly good show and lame it down?
Here’s my recap: driving, driving, walking, running, driving, repeating same phrase over and over again annoyingly, screaming, whining, bitching, moaning, driving, carrying, panting, running. Phil.
These recaps are great. I, like many of you, am not really enjoying the show all that much, but the recaps make it all worthwhile. I think I’ll tune in just enough to keep up so that I can appreciate the humor in these recaps.
Right now I’m agreeing with those who think staying in the US is a bit boring, especially having just yesterday driven from my house (near the GWB) to my dad’s cousins’ (about 5 min from Washington Crossing)……nothing fun and exciting about that! Though my dad did almost smack me when about 30 min down 95 I asked if we could stop for something to eat.
Also, interestingly enough, all the teams last week kept talking about how all they had to do was go south on 95 to get there….except it’s a lot easier to cut across 1 South though New Brunswick and pick 95 back up there.
Hopefully when they start makin their way away from places I know it’ll get better!
2. the weaver daughter’s shorts are practically obscene. i hope they win the next leg and the prize is money cause they need to buy her a pair of pants.
I agree. I think Mama Weaver should be beeseeching Jesus that her daughter’s giggy doesn’t get seen or that she put on a pair of pants in Jesus’s name.
Oh yeah, and WalDER is the biggest PUSSY alive!! He can’t even help his girls lift a soldier whose last role was the concerned husband in the “i’ve fallen and can’t act commercials?
WIMP!!
Post after post is filled with insults of the Weavers and anyone else who has ever made a reference to actually following Christ. Does it pain you guys so much to know that there are people who really would rather their kids know more about the Lord than anything else? And trust me, the kids who are being homeschooled are learning circles around the crap they spit out in the public schools…including evolution and all the other false theories out there.
the kids who are being homeschooled are learning circles around the crap they spit out in the public schools…
Ok, like how?
including evolution and all the other false theories out there.
Oh. Like that. Right. Just the term “false theory” makes absolutely no sense in science. Stick to reatlity TV and Jesus, and stay away from science. Thanks.
I love the Weavers! Call me a softy but I’ll be pulling for them while Jesus sleeps. I hope they win the big bucks so those cute kids can get a better education.
The only thing I can’t figure out is who are the ROGERS????? Have they been on the show all along?
Ok, my question is that if this edition of TAR is supposed to be the Family Edition, why doesn’t it come on earlier so my kids can watch it? I realize they are referring to the families involved instead of just two to a team, but I guess I’m not sure which viewers they are trying to entice with this new twist on TAR.
And can we please have a new Travelocity commercial? The one they’ve been showing we’ve seen too many times…
SO, then would you be insulted if I said the Weaver’s nailed first place like Christ on a cross?
Hmm, Mellybelly, I smell the start of a flamewar.
This is the first time I’ve gotten on this site. Although the recap was lots of fun I have to agree with the few posters who are upset by all the America bashing by what I perceive is Americans. WTF-what happened to American Pride? This show is seen all over the world so it’s good to know that people in other countries might learn a little about the America that is NEVER seen by most of the world. What the hell is wrong with that? And do you honestly want parents taking small children on some of the tasks and into some of the cities we’ve seen on past episodes? Can you just imagine that beautiful little blonde headed girl-child on a packed bus in–say–India. Being grabbed and groped like what happened to whats-her-name a few seasons back? What IS wrong with you people?
I for one am anxious to see just where all in OUR country this season is going to go.
Since they’re already in VA it would be a kick to see the next task being bungee jumping off the New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia. Or how about when they get out west doing the donkey riding bit down the Grand Canyon.
Lighten up, people, we can’t ALL be world travelers like most of you seem to want to be.
Ned:
You voted for Bush, didn’t you?
JUST WHAT DO YOU MEAN BYE BLACK FAMILY, HELLO RACE WAR? YOU DON’T THINK IT WOULD HAVE BEEN A RACE IF THEY HAD STAYED? SHAME ON YOU.
Um Carol,
It’s like a play on words. Ya know ‘Black Family’ – ‘Amazing Race’ – ‘Civil War’ – stuff like that.
And there’s no need to shout – somebody get me some new speakers please – these have been blown out.
Ok, Everybody sing:
Amazin-g Race, how sweet the sound…
As for me – I’m Bouncing Breasts for Jebus!
ha!
P.S. Yeah, I remember the whole stroking discussion also – was surprised to see it wasn’t mentioned until very recently.
Amazing Racer (#67) I belive that they speak English in Belize, since it was an English colony at one time. Not a very stress inducing situation.
Hey Ned, lighten up. I’m sure every American here (posting and reading) has tremendous pride in their country. But as far as this race goes, its just not exciting. The whole appeal of this show was expertly defined in earlier posts (so I won’t rehash them). This edition does not have that same appeal. Yes, its funny. Yes, its very white. But it’s a different show. It’s not The Amazing Race. They went and put corn flakes in a frosted flakes box. Yes, its that bad!! It’s more like the amazing discovery channel tour.
“Does it pain you guys so much to know that there are people who really would rather their kids know more about the Lord than anything else?”
That’s terrific, you can teach your kids whatever beliefs you want. But, how are posters expressing there beliefs to you any different than Widow Weaver expressing her beliefs all the time on TV. Stop being so intolerant of others.
Hey Carol R, why don’t you take a minute and try and comprehend what you read before you click on the caps lock button. B-side’s title is defined in the text of the review. And your accusation is false and inflammatory!
RE: all stars, please no Romber!!
I’ve said my peace.
Enough with the God and Katrina stuff!! This show had to have been taped MONTHS before the hurricane hit. God would have to have been, well, GOD to have been distracted by the upcoming hurricane…or whatever I’m trying to say.
“But, how are posters expressing there beliefs to you any different than Widow Weaver expressing her beliefs all the time on TV. Stop being so intolerant of others.”
Hmmm…Ms. Weaver expresses her belief in God on TV. We then get 50+ posts from viewers on how stupid she is for it. I try to point it out yet I am perceived as intolerant? Really now?
See the way it works is we pretty much insult every team on TAR. It’s not like we’re singling out the Weavers or anything. Really, re-read the comments. Usually there’s a recurring theme for each team, just to keep it simple (RIP, Black family). The God thing (and the lewd shorts) are the Weaver’s gimmick.
Now if you think all this makes us just nasty, superficial c***s, then that’s a perfectly valid opinion.
If watching this season’s TAR pains so many of you soooooo much–QUIT WATCHING!! There are plenty of other shows out there on at the SAME TIME!! Stop making it so unpleasant for those of us who are actually enjoying the show. No one is forcing you to watch.
If reading this season’s TAR recap pains so many of you soooooo much–QUIT READING!! There are plenty of other websites out there on at the SAME TIME!! Stop making it so unpleasant for those of us who are actually enjoying the recaps and comments. No one is forcing you to read.
Chronic – I love you.
No really….you make some very valid points. I can’t go one day without reading the ol’ gasm that I have come to love. Thanks for the perspective.
I agree that it is much more difficult to keep the teams straight this time out when there are so many of them. Heck, no one has even merged the names yet. No Romber, Gretchideth, or Joychenna this year.
POST 100 — Woo-Hoo!!!!!!!!
It’s not the recaps I have trouble with–it’s the constant put-downs directed at the history and beauty of our country. You all seem to make it sound as if America isn’t worth anyone’s time and energy to travel. What’s wrong with taking a breather from the usual TAR? Seems to me that every season up to this one has been all the same. Just different locations. Besides, unless you know specifically what future episodes of this season will entail, how do you know there won’t be air travel, bus travel, train travel? All you have to do is watch an episode of “Airline” to know there can be just as much strife in American airports as any around the world. Just sit back and enjoy the show. And stop being so cynical.
Man alive!!! How do I keep missing this show??? When the Hades is it on? I have loved TAR for ages and now find myself completely out of the loop. Praise the Good Lord that these recaps are available. Family edition seems pretty gay. So of all times to flake out I guess this is the one. Survivor’s on tonight, right? Will I ever get it straight?
I’ll give you my two cents about the America edition. These are fairly common places tbat many Americans have visited already. I’m not a world traveler but I have been oretty much all around the U.S. So seeing places like Thailand, Turkey and Tunisia are interesting to me and NYC, DC and Va are less interesting. Foreign travel certainly creates challenges for the contestants outside their usual experiences. We have yet to see these people get on a plane or do anything remotely exciting. Give me a break…going to a camping store, finding a hot dog stand, exchanging a briefcase, lighting lanterns, driving 15 miles…These tasks do not make exciting TV. All these people and we hardly know who they are. Will I keep watching? Maybe not. I certainly won’t rush to my TV on Tuesday nights.
Geez people . . . the last 15 or 20 posts have gotten rather heated. NOBODY is bashing the US here, it is just that the show shouldn’t have been described as a “race around the world” in episode one if it wasn’t. Yes, the US is a beautiful place — but come on, these contestants and to find a Shoe House. A Shoe House. Should I say that again? A Shoe House. It would have been more entertaining taking us to the streets of Philadelphia and having the teams find a certain Starbucks near the Liberty Bell. Some of these tasks do seem a bit toned down but the episodes are still entertaining. I love this beautiful country of ours and there are only a few states I have left to “see” such as North Dakota, South Carolina and the New England states. And to be honest with you, I am not in any hurry to see North Dakota.
Ned, I am sure that you love the US but your first post was rather a hard slap in the face at some of the world. Only an American can so politely put-down the citizens of India with your train comment. Yes, God forbid an American child see the conditions that BILLIONS of less fortunate children live in every day.
Now for a lighter comment, what was with the Paolo kid saying that his mother complains about EVERYTHING. Who else does that, son?
One more thing, I just went to the CBS website and the oldest Paolo kid is 24. What an asshole. I am sorry, but at that age I think he should be showing a little more respect towards his mother.
I have always said that you can tell when you have become an adult: when you view your parents as a friend and you are not embarrased by being seen with them. This “kid” definitely has some growing up to do.
Ned, are you Les Moonves?
Okay, I give up.
Excuse me for NOT finding our country as boring and not worth the time as the majority of the posters on this site. I guess it’s considered passe to feel pride in the country I was born and raised in. I, unfortunately, have not been able to travel and see as much of this beautiful country as I would have liked, and at age 83, and due to poor health, I really doubt that I’ll have many more opportunities to do so.
This used to be a fun site to visit. Had I known that I would be criticized for loving America as much as I do and defending this season of TAR, I never would have bothered. Have fun, God Bless and thank you for making me understand that patriotism is a thing of the past and left to “old fogies” like me.
You win, congratulations.
Oh yes, and by the way, let the snarks begin. I won’t be here to read them anyway.
Well, I wouldn’t have minded seeing Pa[triarch] Rogers giving himself more rope with which to hang himself, and the tension between him and the son was pretty good, but the mom and the daughter were sort of dull, and I can’t say there was another team that I would have prefered to go over them. Certainly not the Paolos, the eighth team to arrive, whose unremitting quarrels annoy and delight us all. I don’t love them as much as B-Side, and DJ in particular needs a good talking to from Pa Paolo (respect your Mama, jackass), but they give great TAR. Ma Paolo going on and on about filling the tank – classic American family vacation.
As for the Gag[me-with-a-spoon]hans, I guess I’m glad they’re still in it, because I like it when the kids snipe at each other: last week Dakota slammed Pugsley with “Get used to it, dork”, and this week Pugsley struck back with “I want her job!” Faboo! There’s a smugness about them that bothers me though; it seems more common, for some reason , amongst the thirty odd percent of teams that interview at the beginning of their series on why they think the other teams will underestimate them (“I may be little, but I’m not shtupid” – gah…). And pushing those little kids to do the triage task was a jaw-dropper, what the heck were they thinking? The Bransens, in sixth place, were the ones I would have been least sorry to take the Rogerses place in ninth. The daddy/daughter byplay can be sweet (sometimes cloyingly so), but they just don’t have much pizazz, and it was pretty dumb to have Pa Bransen to the Roadblock, the poor guy’s just not in as good shape as the girls. I don’t see them getting very far at this rate.
The Aiellos, in fifth, I really like a lot, it’s clear that these guys truly care about each other, and they work together really well. The dynamic with this team is neat, because the sons-in-law are all trying to impress the father-in-law, but they’re not trying to upstage each other, as, say, Jim from ‘The Apprentice: MS’ would, if he were on this show with his in-laws, but rather co-operating, and rather well too. The fourth place team, the Schroeders, have really grown on me too, Pa Schroeder’s inappropriate remarks notwithstanding. I’m not getting much from the boy, but the dad, the mom and the daughter seem pretty cool, and bonus points to the kids for not pushing my annoyance buttons [yet]. The way they shrugged off the Gaghans at the wrong Reflecting Pool was so dang smooth. And despite all the confounded cackling and shrieking, I have to say that I like the third-place team, the Godlewskis, as well. They have a certain corn-fed Midwestern charm (those personalized t-shirts, holy crow), and there’s something irresistable about their goofy, rah-rah attitude. Not to mention that, in the easy-on-the-eyes department, they’re neck and neck with the Bransen ladies.
The Linzes, in second, I’m not sure how I feel about them. They’re clearly a strong team, and they have an oddly ingenuous deviousness, without being jerkassess about it (*cough Boston Rob cough*). Still, aside from the fact that they’re big Bengals fans, I feel like I don’t much about this team. I’m having a hard time getting a reading on them, but I’m pretty sure they’ll be in the running for a while, so I’ll have plenty of time to get to know them. I was really delighted that the Weavers won this leg, since they’re they hard luck team this season, and I’m not sure how much longer they’re going to be in the race, so it was cool to see them win at least one awesome prize. While I have little in common with them, I admit that I’ve been sucked in by their family-unity-after-tragedy story line, I’m charmed by how close they are, and I actually kind of like it that they wear their faith on their sleeves. It is an important part of their lives, and I don’t doubt that it sustained them in their hour of need. And as a hook, I don’t find it particularly offensive; I mean, if Ibrehim from ‘Survivor: Palau’ weren’t an observant Muslim, what else would we have known about him?
I’m sympathetic to folks who don’t find TAR Family Edition as compelling as TAR Classic: the spills, chills and thrills couldn’t possibly measure up, and the locations certainly won’t be as exotic. I guess I just think of the Family Edition as whole different animal. If for no other reason than legal liability, there’s no way the network is going to have kids sleeping outside train stations, nevermind eating a kilo of caviar or jumping out of airplanes. I confess I’m enjoying this edition a lot more than I had anticipated, there’s something so evocative about it. In a way, a North-America-only setting the producers seem to have chosen enhances the Typical American Family Vacation atmosphere which may be the show’s strongest asset. Although it’s certainly true that they could have found excellent family-friendly destinations and tasks on any continent, I’m curious to see how this plays out. Really, if anything, I would have liked to see more teams with smaller kids, as long as they toned down the show anyway; with the Blacks gone the first week, the Gaghans seem to be the only team left with pree-teens. If I’m reading the ages of all the contestants correctly, it seems like there are like four or five 18+ teams; how lame would it be if all the other teams were eliminated, and the TAR Classic age teams end up doing all these kiddied down tasks? Anyhoo, I definitely would be irked to see the show go all Family Edition, all the time, but as long as I know that TAR Classic will be back, I’m prepared to sit back nd enjoy this ride. Oh, can we stop for ice cream? Can we? Can we?
“I, unfortunately, have not been able to travel and see as much of this beautiful country as I would have liked, and at age 83, and due to poor health, I really doubt that I’ll have many more opportunities to do so.”
You’re soooo NOT 83. I’m starting to enjoy whatever it is you’re up there to ned.
Bye, Ned. Have a self righteous day.
OK, on the subject of team naming : I think the name thing isn’t going to work. Mashing four names together is going to be too unwieldy. I’m thinking that naming the teams along character lines will probably work better. One name that I’ve heard floated for the Weavers is “Team Flanders”. They’re extremely vocal about their faith and have lost one parent to a weird accident in a sports arena. Yes, I’m a horrible, horrible person. Go ahead . . . . . . berate me if you must, but we are trying to have a little fun here aren’t we? Besides I’m sure Mrs. Weaver would tell you to forgive me.
Any other ideas folks. A lot of people are floating broad ethnic names like the Sopranos for the Paolos, but it truly is an insult to the Sopranos. The Schroeders could always be “Team Dad Is An Amazingly Crass Jackass” – could be a little long.
Thoughts ? (and yes I know I’m going to burn in hell).
Ned, are you really 83 or 38 and George W. Bush’s inbred relative.
Of course we all here love the USofA.
If you were a real proud american and believed in free speach what everyone is saying on here wouldn’t bother you. AND you would tell your real age. haha 83…riiight.
83 my ass. What 83 year old has EVER typed out “WTF”? Come on, say 56 and I would have bought it, but 83 — for someone who loves the USofA as much as you do you sure are questioning our intelligence with this one.
But you “won’t be here” to read this so I won’t say anymore.
Oh — and the CBS website says that there is tension at the airport in the next episode! So they might actually venture 2 or 3 hundred miles next week!!!
TWilliams – Nice catch on the “83 year old” using the “WTF” abbreviation. Too bad Ned’s not reading anymore I ask how he could type with the flag wrapped so tight around him. By the way, I’m currently being accused of being over-patriotic on the Survivor board. Ah, life’s little ironies.
Wouldn’t be so sure about that one, Jake. My grandfather has one of the dirtiest mouths on any one I’ve ever heard and he’s 77. He uses the “F” bomb everytime he opens his mouth.
Anywhoooo Im glad to hear we may actually have a SouthWest type of meld down next week. Could perk things up a lot.
Rocks – I’m not saying that older people don’t curse……it’s the internet WTF slang that I agreed was out of character for an 83 year old man. It was as much of a giveaway as if he had included a “ROTFL” or maybe a big “Whatever!!!”
Chronic, You are always right on, dude. I think you are my favorite poster here- (or maybe I just subconsciously love your name).
Awwww, fanks amygirl. I’m a dudette though, but I s’pose “dude” is multipurpose.
Ooooh, Apprentice recap is up, must go there stat.
Oh yeah, and I appreciate your appreciation, RealityTV4me.
I find this family edition of TAR quite good, sure there may be no international travelling but the constant bickering in the car by some of the families makes for good TV, don’t you think?
Oh and the family that got eliminated, bummer, stupid dad, poor son.
yay!! the weaver family are in first place. totally made my day n worth watching after all. im backin them the whole way in dis race.
but seriously, i really really hate dat gaghan kid(n by dat i mean billy, not dakota aite?). its his whiny ways(DUH, ur sister cant carry da freakin gurney cause she’s just 2 freakin small!! get dat in ur puny brain kid!!) dat just plain pisses me off. btw, thought the recap was hilarious(really cracked me up, lol).
n i was really surprised wen phil said “bla bla bla da pit stop”. i went like “what?! that fast??”.
FYI: juz thought u guys should know this. 2 of the bransen girls were actually in a shampoo commercial before. not sure which 2.
p/s the sky is oh-so very blue…
oh yeah, i have a brother named JED..surprise, surprise people!
I thinK I’m going to try to write an entire recap in Natalie (2 posts above) speak.
Dat wuld b kewl.
Please don’t.
My spouse, the Pirate King has a suggestion. He likes those programs where they take the cast from one series and have them “visit” the story and cast of another. He’s thinks there should be a visit between TAR Family Edition and Survivor – Guatemala. Just one episode. Wow! What a pit stop that would be. The religious family could climb to the top of the pyramid and ask for forgiveness for all the human sacrifices made by the heathens of the past. The blond daughters would have a legitimate reason to change into the clothes they really prefer, warm weather thongs. Dakota could keep up to speed with her running skills by running all day up and down the step pyramid, even better that the Philly steps. And since they couldn’t really do the Tribal Council as usual, instead they could vote to feed one of the TAR racers to that nifty crocodile that is lurking offshore. PK isn’t always the shiniest dubloon in the treasure chest but this time I think he’s on to something.
Personally, I’m loving the season because:
a) The tasks don’t suck as bad as “find a box”, “make tea” or “chop onions”
b) I don’t live in the US, so it’s more “exotic” than say, TAR7′s London [I don't get what's wrong with having TAR nearby anyway - the Cambridge bit of TAR3 was shot about 2 minutes from where I lived at the time and it rocked]
c) No Meredith and Wretched.
No-one seems have mentioned that the Linzes are now the designated asshole team: Chris & Alex x 2.
Thank you, Matt. I agree with it all.
is dat a good thing or a bad thing?????
Oh, Natalie, please grow up. sg-dub may find you endearing, but most of us just find you annoying.
“Dat” was me making fun of your incredibly annoying way of writing, which I find anything but endearing.
Season One TAR replay!!
For those that are yearning for some TAR classic, GSN will begin airing TAR season 1 this week, most likely starting on Thursday night, 9pm EST.
Sorry sg-dub—didn’t mean to offend. I apologize if I did.
oh, i dont mind. everyone has their own opinion so i accept dat u ppl find my way of writing annoying. no problem..thats my way of writing n i cant change it in a split second juz 2 please everyone so get over it.