
Originally Posted by
jlccaz;4152177; (1) Ashley/Seal Song. I will wager $100 that that story about her dad and that song cropped up in her application, pre-show interviews. That is classic reality TV planning -- they would ask everyone, then try to match girl and artist/label. The cast would not be in on the set-up of course, because the point is to film their raw reactions to something real that is happening (Ashley being flooded with memories, Brad listening to a compelling story on camera, etc.) That's how they "plan" for what they hope is watchable TV. The key reality ingredient being to keep the cast in the dark, because none of them can act, so the reactions they seek to film have to be spontaneous. Casting involves matching Beach Body with Backstory. Production/story creation involves matching Backstory with Life Experience to create joy, sorrow, anger, etc. in guinea pigs who aren't used to being in front of cameras.
(2) Emily / Brad interactions before she told him as aired were very contrived and a re-tread from every one of the last 5 seasons of Bach/ette ("is it too early to tell my "secret"? will s/he still like me?), especially before the commercial break. I couldn't tell whether Brad had an inkling of what was coming or no, but it is such a powerful story (let's face it), it "works" as TV in the telling every single time (that was the third time the story was told in only three episodes. The gift that keeps on giving). She is a bit too sweet (borders on saccharine) for Brad, I think. I think he likes the "fire"/tough -- that seems real.
(3) Chantal interactions seem so intermittent and chopped at this point. They certainly cut away to her all the time. You can tell Brad is into it, so her "intensity" doesn't come across as psycho reaction, but it's odd because none of the character development groundwork has been laid. The supposition (based upon how far along their relationship obviously is at this point in filming, and from his post show public comments) is that a very strong early connection was made, and that if aired early on, it would distract from the other Filler Dates (the Ashley's, Michelle, Madison, etc.).
(4) Michelle's airtime made me wonder whether she was paid to act a role. Probably just manipulated on the spot, but it was ridiculous. She was trying to create a memorable character for TV, that much is for sure. He doesn't care if she stays or goes, because he genuinely does seem psyched at this point that the show is going to "work out" for him.
(5) The therapist scene was stupid addition to the show.