November 22, 2024
Column

‘Made in the USA’ lacks spark to grab viewers

Imagine being the person who designed Post-It notes or the combination spoon/fork, more commonly known as the spork, at Kentucky Fried Chicken. Who hasn’t dreamed of coming up with the best new invention and making millions?

For one lucky inventor, USA Network is helping to make the great American dream come true with their newest reality show, “Made in the USA.” Although not even in the same reality league as “The Apprentice” or “American Idol,” one of the show’s judges offers a Simon Cowell-like perspective and entrepreneurs are rewarded for their business skills Trump-style.

Some contestants have gone so far as to quit their jobs and sell their homes in hopes that their hard work and ingenuity will pay off. The only problem is that the show is missing something.

Only having seen the premiere episode, it’s hard to put a finger on exactly what the missing element is, but there’s something that’s not quite right. The first episode lacked whatever it is that makes you want to keep watching and tune in next week.

Perhaps it’s hard to visualize the finished products, which will make their way from prototype to marketplace-ready over the six-week series. Or maybe it’s that the contestants don’t seem to have personalities as memorable as Omarosa.

Either way, I’m rooting for the travel stiletto to make it all the way. The suitcase friendly shoe can be transformed to work with every wardrobe and is cute enough to wear even when you’re not on the road.

“Made in the USA” premieres at 10 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, on USA. And don’t forget to check out the first episode of “Survivor: Guatemala” at 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 15, on CBS, and “Wife Swap” at 8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 12, on ABC.

For wives who want to experience what it’s like to live in another woman’s shoes for 10 days, the show is looking for contestants. To enter, visit the Web site at www.abc.com and scroll down to click for more info on casting calls.


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