Random snippets of cheerleaders from the '50s make no sense in the context of this music video, when juxtaposed with Paula and her posse. Is it reminding us subtly that Paula was born after the '50s and isn't as old as we think she is? She was born in 1962, smack dab in the era the contestants just did a tribute to.
Paula as George Washington Crossing the Delaware, in which the Delaware represents the 12-year-void that is her career.
The mid-air shots of Paula and her dancers represents the shattering of the time-space continuum every time Seacrest and Simon see eye-to-eye on something during the show, obviously. When those two agree, time literally stops and people freeze in their tracks. It could also represent the stalling of Paula's career and the likelihood of her statements making any sense during judging. Or maybe she just really, really loves The Matrix.
Applause, applause. Simon even hugs Paula, as if to reassure her that she's not too lame for trying to make a comeback. Ryan then calls Amanda and Joanne to the stage, announcing that everyone still seated is safe. Thanks, Captain Obvious!
The stylists must really hate you.
Amanda belted "Baby Please Don't Go" in her trademark raspy voice, which is not everyone's cup of tea, while Joanne attempted the impossible "I Say A Little Prayer For You" and fell short. Simon's critique that Joanne's performance of a cabaret version of a cabaret song doomed her, methinks, and Ryan quickly reveals that Amanda is safe. You need to keep a crazypants on board to keep things interesting, even though I doubt she'll be the next Idol. Simon sips his drink and remarks how much he loves Coca-Cola while remarking that Wednesday marked Joanne's worst performance ever. That's all it takes. Joanne tries to depart gracefully, explaining that "Sunday..err, Wednesday" didn't show her true colors. Sunday, huh?
Girl, get Botox injections to plug up those tear ducts 'cause God don't like ugly criers.
Cut to the obligatory shot of girls sobbing and holding each other. Ramiele, stop blubbering! It makes you look super un-cute, and you'll give yourself a headache. I'm sure there's mega-editing, but it looks like the loser's parents/family are ushered pretty quickly onto the balcony for the departed's final song. Do you think they're just waiting in the wings the whole time? I think the bottom two should be given the option of jousting, Gladiators style, for the safe slot. Well, only in cases where they're virtually indistinguishable from each other. Anywho, plus-size Joanne will keep on singing and living the dream, somehow.
I say a little prayer for you, Ugly Hat.
Three down, one to go! Who's leaving The Boyzzz Club tonight? Seacrest summons Chikezie and Colton. It's no question who's going home here. Let's face it - America is not going to kick off the token brother on this show, and Chikezie does have a fantastic, distinct voice, just crappy taste in songs and outfits.
Colton sang "Suspicious Minds" and Randy and Paula felt okay with it, while Simon said the performance wasn't relevant and a complete waste of his time. Randy thought "More Than Yesterday" was decent, while Simon believed it could've been filmed 40 years ago. But I think Chikeze can be molded and trained, while Colton just seems like a little kid playing in the sandbox.
And we'll say goodnight to...Colton. YES. The little theme song that plays after the announcement is super anti-climactic, I must say. It doesn't hold a candle to the DUN DUN sound effect from Law and Order. Time to go try out for High School Musical or be a body double on Hannah Montana. Paula encourages him and says that he needs to take the time to find the right songs and just go for it. Randy also tells Colton to keep pursuing his dreams. Stop being an enabler, Randy.
In the harshest reality check of the night, Simon takes this moment to advise Colton to get a good job, and to just enjoy singing as a hobby on the side. "I don't believe you'll make a successful career out of it," says the Dream Killer, horrifying Paula and Randy. He's kinda right. I wouldn't even download his iTunes tracks for free. I can see Colton performing on a Disney cruise and having the time of his life. Do it!
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Comments (5)
I tuned in half way through when Amanda and Joanna were on the stage and couldn't figure out why Amanda was dressed like Bea Arthur as Maude and Joanna looked like an old fashioned stewardess. And the guys in suits??? It finally dawned on me that they were making them dress in 60s fashion -- hope to God they don't continue that theme. I'm having flashes of 70's bell bottoms and 80s big hair in the coming weeks. Although I can envision Danny Noriega in disco wear (not a pretty sight).
The right people definitely went home. The judges keep saying this is the best group ever so I'm hoping they improve next week.
1 of 5 | Posted by murphena | Posted on February 22, 2008 7:16 PM
Great recap. I was happy to see that those "votefortheworst" people are being ignored because they had Amy Davis listed for the girls' team.
2 of 5 | Posted by geewits | Posted on February 23, 2008 1:53 AM
I did watch "Don't Forget The Lyrics". And I am not ashamed. It was cool seeing the performing all those songs, and then getting to do a song from their own catalog.
3 of 5 | Posted by nerrawllehctim | Posted on February 23, 2008 8:14 AM
nerrawllehctim: I finished up my recap while semi-watching "Don't Forget The Lyrics." I kinda hoped they would've chosen to sing "What's Up Pussycat?" but it was refreshing to see people who could harmonize!
4 of 5 | Posted by T.Vo | Posted on February 23, 2008 2:34 PM
Amy Davis was so wretched even VoteForTheWorst couldn't save her (actually there was some debate as to whether Amanda was the better pick). These semifinals are going to be excruciating.
5 of 5 | Posted by VICI | Posted on February 23, 2008 4:57 PM