Saturday, December 09, 2006

America's Next Top Model vs. Project Runway

America's Next Top Model is a show that does not get the proper respect that it deserves. Tyra Banks hosts a solid and inspiring TV show that really makes you understand exactly what the world of modeling is all about. What I don't like is how people tend to look down on this spectacular show. Why do they dislike it? Why do they write it off before seeing it? The problem is, of course, the way we view models in our society: we think they are dumb. Or course, some are. But, we like to think of models as two dimensional beings, and we don't see the need to watch them do anything but pose. So, by some weird extension we subconsciously believe that America's Next Top Model won't be a good show. But it is.

America's Next Top Model is well-produced and exciting and full of drama. The contestants are diverse and entertaining, which is perfect. if you want to check out a show that you've never ever given a chance, America's Next Top Model might be one to watch. I've certainly loved it every second of it. I cannot explain how good Tyra Banks is at running this show. She is a little crazy, but actually also insightful and fun to watch.

The problem that we encounter with our preconceptions of America's Next Top Model is that it's completely and totally unfair. We assume, just as the BuddyTV article states, that because of the premise and the channel and the host of the show, we know how good or bad it will be. As any rational person can attest, this is quite foolish. More over, the we make this decision subconsciously and therefore, it's hard to find fault in ourselves. America's Next Top Model, while popular in its own right, is losing out on a number of viewers solely because of stereotypes. This isn't fair to the show or to ourselves.