Grade: B-
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CW's "Plain Jane" Inane, Mundane, But Still Entertains
Television Review: Plain Jane, "Friend Zone Jane"
by R.J. Carter
Published: July 28, 2010
Is the public really hungry enough for another reality series about personal makeovers? That's what CW is betting on as they bring us the Louise Roe hosted series, Plain Jane, in which moderately attractive girls email videos to Roe with the plea to help them get the men who don't even know they're alive.
The "Jane" for the series premiere is Cristen. She's got big eyes, a big smile, and seemingly is in little need of improvement. Or maybe it's just me -- I grok geek. But I find myself questioning if she's made up to look geekier than she is. Roe obviously feels there's a solid enough base to work her stylist magic on, because she takes the case.
(l-r): Cristen and Louise Roe on PLAIN JANE on The CW.
Photo: Matt Kennedy/The CW
©2010 The CW Network. All Rights Reserved. |
Cristen's secret crush is on her best bud, Ty. When she first met Ty, he had a girlfriend, so Cristen contented herself by staying in his "friend zone" -- and she's not been able to break out of that role since. Louise Roe comes to the rescue by forcing Cristen to face down her worst fear in a rather comical way. This is a building block for conquering other fears -- like telling Ty the truth. Along the way, there's some shopping therapy, makeover therapy, and electro-shock therapy (you only think I'm kidding!) before moving on to what the show is all about: the big reveal and what Ty's reaction will be.
If we're being honest, the formula for this one is as old as the hills. It's got all the classic elements of your regular "make me over" bit, right down to the interviews with family and friends. What sets Plain Jane apart is the presentation, as the producers seem to be having just a bit more fun with this. Cristen herself makes this show moreso than does Roe, so it could be that CW was gifted with a pilot presentation. Time will tell, and I don't foresee it being kind. But Plain Jane certainly seems to have put its best foot -- and a rather shapely leg -- forward.
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CD Giveaway - Paper Bird, "Rooms"
Ends May 28, 2013
Drifting ever so slightly away from traditional folk music, this Colorado band delivers harmony and energy aplenty. |
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