Greg Michaels’ Review of ‘Rising Star’

Did you watch ‘Rising Star’ last night on ABC? What did you think?

First of all, the promos I’ve seen leading up to the premiere I thought were confusing to a degree. Now that I’ve watched it, I understand the premise at least in the audition round/s assuming the show continues on and eliminates one contestant week after week later in the process. Now for what I saw and my thoughts, let’s call it a review.

I thought the show dragged a bit. Josh Groban, the host, said the west coast results would come up on the left side of the screen but if the show is putting people through who the east coast voted for then how is the west coast’s votes even really relevant?

As I understand it, the west coast viewer’s votes will be added in additionally to the other three time zones whose viewers watch it live. The west coast “enhanced broadcast” is problem number one I have with this show.

The second issue I take up with this show is that it alienates those who can’t download the app. What about laptop users? Why can’t people vote on-line, like on American Idol?

Wait, I actually have two more questions, will the whole season play out like this? America has a heart. I’m just guessing, but I do think digital votes will be easier to get than those of the judges or as they’re called on ‘Rising Star’ experts.

And lastly, the show is too slow. If the hook is we’re all voting in real time, make it performance driven, the four on stage have very little chemistry. Individually they’re all great, talented and have something to bring but I don’t see any magic. An Audition after audition and vote after vote concept would keep my interest more.

Maybe I’m getting jaded by all of these talent shows. Maybe ‘Rising Star’ is too gimmicky? Maybe I’m being too harsh and didn’t give it enough of a chance? What do you think? Did you like ‘Rising Star’?

If you want a visual concept of the show check out the video below.