America's Got Talent: Semifinals - Acts 1-10 [aka: The Producers Made Me Do It]
Topic: America's Got Talent
America's Got Talent: Semifinals - Acts 1-10
Airdate: Tuesday, September 1, 2009 [9-11pm]
We have finally made it past the four weeks of quarterfinals, and now have moved on to the first of two weeks of semifinals. Which acts impressed, which acts should go home, and which contestant called foul on the producers? Let's find out...
1. Acrodunk [Basketball dunkers]: For the most part, I have never been disappointed by this act. While I have a few criticisms (it lagged a little in the middle, and the sparks shooting up during the first half were kinda lame and random), overall, I was again very impressed. Actually, I do have one other critique - many of the acrobatic moves, I believe, were ones we have seen from them before.
2. The Texas Tenors [Singing Group]: This performance was a lot better than last time; in other words, it was not as cheesy. But the 'cheese' factor was still there in some capacity. However, what dulled it this time was the beautiful voice from the blond. It's hard to explain, but something about this whole performance, compared to last time, was bearable.
3. Paradizo Dance [Acrobatic Dance Group]: No. Just...no. There were so many things wrong, cheesy, and just plain unnecessary about this: the 'just married' sign, the donut, the maid/cleaning sketch, the bed, the PJ's, and them. If they make it into the finals, then this will prove that America doesn't know what talent really is.
4. Drew Thomas Magic [Illusionist]: I was extremely disappointed by the illusion. I saw nothing new or exciting about it. The appearing assistants/models were recurring throughout, and it got a little boring after awhile. The story he presented was cheesy. But I did notice where strategy came into play, and that was incorporating his daughter into the story/illusion. And I don't know if her crying was all an act or spontaneous, but I'm sure some voters will choose him based in the sympathy factor. Unfortunately, it won't be enough to make the finals.
5. Tony Hoard & Rory [Canine Flying Disc team]: The barking was annoying, but Rory did not miss a single Frisbee this time, which made this performance a lot better. But I'm still not sure they should advance; nothing original here.
6. The Voices of Glory [Singing group]: I have always despised these kind of unbearably cheesy family singing groups. But this may be the first week where I have to retract that statement, because I heard a vast improvement with all three of their voices. I can't believe I'm going to say this, but based on this performance, they deserve to be in the finals. [Gasp!]
7. Fab 5 [Power tap dancers]: Once again, I really enjoyed their performance. This is what talent is, and they are extremely skilled tap dancers. However, it is hard to say if they will stay on the show; their chances of survival depend on how good or bad the remaining three acts are.
8. Grandma Lee [Comedienne]: Out of all 20 semifinalists, she is the only one I was looking forward to seeing again. And I was not let down. I can see where some may get tired of her, but I haven't. She writes jokes that fit her age, but yet are edgy enough to appeal to other demographics. When she makes it to the finals (and she better), she has a good shot at winning; and if she does, she will have deserved it.
9. Arcadian Broad [Dancer]: There is no doubt that he is talented, but the other dancers distracted from him. And that was very gutsy for him to reveal that the producers made him do the High School Musical theme. You could tell the judges were trying to change the subject. And Nick mentioned that the contestants do have the final say (uh huh). I would have loved to have been a fly on the wall when he went backstage after making that comment. The producers probably thought, well, he's out. Today, I've been reading various episode recaps, and everyone is applauding Arcadian for having the guts to call out the producers like that. I'm sure some may vote for him because of his comments, but I don't know if the performance, when it comes down to it, was enough.
10. Kevin Skinner [Singer/Guitarist]: It was obvious from the standing ovation from Piers and from the pimp spot (aka, the last act of the night) that the producers are still trying to shove him down our throats as the next Susan Boyle, which he is not. His voice was sharp (maybe even flat at times as well) for at least half the song, which was painful to hear. Unfortunately, he will be in the finals. And if he wins (and I know I've said it before), his career will be a dud.
Favorite Acts: Acrodunk / The Texas Tenors / The Voices of Glory / Grandma Lee
My Votes: Grandma Lee [10 votes by phone; 10 votes online]
Top 8 Predictions: Acrodunk / The Voices of Glory / Grandma Lee / Kevin Skinner
After four weeks of seeing a new set of contestants each week, it was nice to finally see familiar faces. This week will be one of the toughest yet when it comes to the results. Kevin Skinner aside, there will most likely be at least one act that will advance that doesn't deserve to, which means that I'm worried about Grandma Lee's chances. Also, I do not know if the Judge's Choice will still be present. If so, then I have a feeling it will come down to Acrodunk and The Texas Tenors, which the judges saying goodbye to the Tenors, due to the fact that we already have a lot of singers.
Tonight, The Hoff himself, David Hasselhoff, will perform, as will Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy. Both performances should be interesting (no comment on if that is a good or bad thing).
Posted by Webmaster Dodgeroo54
at 6:08 PM PDT
Updated: Wednesday, September 2, 2009 6:09 PM PDT