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#46 | |||
Elite Fan
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 46,056
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I hate coming to this board and complaining how once again, The O.C. did nothing for me. But, what I hate the most is these last-minute stories, that are obviously created to please fans/sweeps/bring up viewership due to low ratings/bad fan response.
For one, Marissa/Alex I don't believe was the original intent for the season. I doubt Josh or anyone thought about it. They probably got a call from FOX saying ... We want you to get rid of the gardener and do something that will shock the audience, but not make them hate the character. And then comes the obvious Sexual Exploration storyline. And once again, it's rushed. And the chemistry isn't really even there. It's like were just supposed to believe that Marissa likes girls now, and obviously this won't be for the shows run. This will be for like a few more episodes, because Marissa is a core character, and they don't have it in them, to make her a lesbian. Seth/Summer I think I have stopped caring for once, if these two would get back together. And you want to know why, because the writers are either setting up a reunion or a tease (to please viewers/keep em watching) in the hopes that they'll get together. But ... factor in Zach, the boyfriend, and now you have (say it with me) a LOVE TRIANGLE. Typical, cliched, and over-done. So, why should an OC fan stick around, only to see them screw it up? What's in it for them? Got me. It's an obvious ratings plot, tugging at the fans, and also was definetly a re-write. Ryan/Lindsay are the weakest couple (IMO) because there is too much drama/lack there of, to hold them together. There wasn't mch chemistry developed, as well as Lindsay's character, and so that's why it won't work. TV writers need to learn how to build chemistry, and not just push it together. S/S had 19 episodes, where they weren't together (officially) and in those episodes, they built (say it with me) CHEMISTRY. Nough said. And then there's Sandy ... and his little secret, that can potentially ruin his marraige. How convenient of them to do this, when Kirsten, from the premiere has been cold, angry, and bitter obviously developing that he would potentially leave his wife, for her general attitude. Even S/K chemistry has faded this season, and I think it was done intentionally to give the couple a real story. Too bad the audience could care less, and why did they need to bring Kim Delany on. She's a great actress, but this is such a bit part that could only hurt her career. Overall, I am very unsatisfied with this show. I can't watch it for one reason, when the couple that had to be together, last season, I honestly could care less about. The pacing for this show is terrible, so much happens in one episode, but overall nothing happens. Its all nonsense. And if people are watching because Marissa/Alex have a good relationship, lemme tell you, that one is not going to last that long. It won't. And neither will S/S. I doubt TPTB are bringing them back together, I think there just screwing with our heads. This show needs to find new life, writers, whatever it takes, because so far this show is as much of a dive, as that crappy Bait Shop bar they all hang out at. __________________
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#47 | |||
Loyal Fan
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 1,022
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Okay, let me try to respond to this in the best possible way without giving away any spoilers to the unspoiled. Okay the S/S storyline, I know for a fact was planned way in advance. Trust me, it is not just a tease or a ploy for ratings with no payoff. However as for the issue of Zach and thus it being a triangle, well to be fair that was ALWAYS clear from the moment we met Zach. It was part of the reason many people were bothered by him (other than his being dull as dull could be and he and Summer having no chemistry) because it was clear as day Zach's character was simply an "obstacle" to the eventual S/S reunion.
We heard it from Josh's mouth when they had those O.C. specials...i.e. they would have triangles, hell even rhombuses, etc. He said it like he was being cute and clever because sadly he DOES think people love those triangles. If that wasn't enough to give people a clue what was to come this season (and run if it wasn't their cup of tea) then the introduction of FOUR new young characters should have been the ultimate sign; since nothing was more contrived than that. As for the Alex/Marissa deal, I'm sorry maybe it's just me; but I can't imagine many people bought Josh's line and thought this wasn't a ratings ploy. If it was just about doing something to surprise his viewers in a good and well-written way; they wouldn't have discussed it weeks in advance in practically every magazine and basically give it away in the big 12wk promo FOX kept running over and over and over. The other storylines were all planned well in advance but the issue here isn't rushed storylines and them not being developed. I mean I think they have done a sufficient job of showing the strains in Sandy and Kirsten's marriage this season; starting way back from Seth and his little summer flight and Sandy's decision to have him stay in Portland if that's what he really wanted. I liked Kirsten bringing it up in the drama about their anniversary because it showed continuity and there are still some issues there because of it. The problem here is Josh & Co.'s lack of creativity in thinking that the only real drama couples can have is the romantic kind. That the only interesting thing on a show is triangles and more triangles. This was clear again from the introduction of the four new characters. D.J. quite frankly was never neccessary and Lindsey and Zach might have worked if either had really good chemistry with the main character they were placed with. Lindsey and Ryan had some spark in the beginning but Zach and Summer, dear god is just torture and has many people who love Summer, dreading her scenes because they have to see him. Meanwhile in the latter stages of the season, when who knows if they'll keep him around once S/S get back together, more people are actually warming up to him as a friend to Seth. Now see had they introduced Zach as just a guy joining the comic book club, befriending Seth and Ryan and maybe from THAT association meeting Summer; the whole Summer/Seth/Zach storyline might have been more interesting. Instead they just bring in four people, in very contrived manner, just place them with our original four; but never gave any of the relationships real heart, passion or interest. I for one am willing to admit that this season, the show lost a bit of spark from last season. However watching my DVD's I don't think it is SO terrible from last season, namely because I never thought the show was as amazing as many made it out to be. Good (especially the first couple episodes and a few others later in the season) and certainly better than some of the crap out there; but not great. The optimistic side of me would like to believe that this was just a sophmore slump. It happens to the best shows and musicians. However, for things to improve in the third season, the writers of this show need to be a little more creative beyond "oh let's just cast some new guy/girl and create a triangle". Be a little creative and have couples stay beyond five episodes instead of thinking that's a long relationship. The most important though, is to stop believing their press and shoving it down the viewers' throats. __________________
"The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time, and still retain the ability to function." F. Scott Fitzgerald
"There is nothing as tragic as being alive and not enjoying life." J. Meyer |
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#48 | |||
Absolute Fan
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 6,178
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I really liked the episode!
It might be a ratings ploy but I do actually like Marissa and Alex. I think Alex is a really good character. In fact I don't really have much against any of the newbies. I even like the friendship (when shown) between Zach, Seth and Ryan. The Sandy/Kirsten/Rebecca storyline is ok, I just don't want to see Kandy ruined. They're a fabulous couple! __________________
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#49 | |||
Elite Fan
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 46,056
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#50 | |||
Dedicated Fan
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 898
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#51 | |||
Passionate Fan
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 3,356
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From TWoP:
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I see the word "lesbian" everywhere on this thread...Who said Marissa is a lesbian? She is confused. She admires Alex. Seeing as how they will kiss next week, for ratings or not, One kiss doesn't make Marissa a lesbian. Alot of girls her age make out with other girls for whatever reason. I don't find it contrived at all. I find Marissa realistic and growing in a way. And OC is handling the girl on girl stuff a hell of alot better than OTH did. As for Alex and Marissa lasting? Of course they won't last over 5 episodes because no couple last over 5 episodes on this show. That's how it's always been. For example, Seth and Anna, Ryan and Marissa on and off again every damn time. Theresa and Ryan. You really don't have time to warm up to any YC couple. 'Cept for S/S because, face it, they belong together. And S/S contrived? Since when? They've always loved each other. And I don't think it's for ratings. I knew there would be a reunion this season from the start. Zach is Anna of this season. They are there for awhile untill the inevitable happens. And I hope once the S/S reunion takes place TPTB will be smart enough to make them be together for a long time and dwell deeper into Summer's background and such. |
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#52 | |||
Elite Fan
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 46,056
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I think we can all agree that the writing has taken a nose dive, compared to last season. That's what angers me more then the plots or the acting (or lack there of), it's that the wrting is very inconsistent and sloppy.
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#53 | |||
Passionate Fan
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 3,356
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#54 | |||
Elite Fan
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 46,056
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I don't know. So far, the show hasn't given me a reason to say "Wow, this show is still going strong", because it's not. And I don't know why I don't just stop, maybe I feel somehow, theres a light at the end of this dark tunnel. And hopefully, a writer or TPTB will find a flashlight soon.
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#55 | |||
Part-Time Fan
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 174
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Yes I loved this episode finally some Summer/Seth interaction cause I was seriously giving up hope..
and can I get a cheer for ryan finally talking back to Caleb for once,cause seriously how much offending can a man take,I mean we all know ryan has made some mistakes but dude get over it . He is not after your money. and Caleb I know your not used to people talking back to you..but you don't have to go al heart atack-ish on us.. SweetahZ __________________
"He knows I have my power, Damon. He is trying to kill me." "No." ♥ |
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#56 | |||
Elite Fan
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 27,570
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I need help! I downloaded the episode and when I go back to play it, all I get is the sound. Anyone know what to do?
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#57 | |||
New Fan
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 76
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Quote:
I personally like the Alex/Marissa storyline... Its not poorly written to me, and I LOVE the chemistry between them... its definately there. I also agree, Marissa isn't suddenly a lesbian now and maybe not even bi. Right now shes bi-curious at most. I think its been taken extremely slowly in terms of the OC-- like said above, the average OC relationship is 5 episodes and so far its taking 3 or 4 episodes before they even kiss. As well, although we know she probably won't be leaning towards her own gender for the rest of the series, its not like it hasn't been done before. Remember Willow on Buffy? That was handled well. This relationship is obviously helping Marissa grow out of being the train wreck that she is. I've noticed that quite a few people have changed their opinions on her already. In the long run, it will benefit the character and make her more likable. The only inconsistancy I see is how unlikely it is for Alex to only be 17. Her ex for example: she obviously isn't a teen, and also owns her own house. Does her ex always go for 16/17 year olds? Although its not made completely clear, Alex seems to be the one running the Bait Shop. She seems to have a much older air about her than the other characters. Even if she did cut herself off from her parents with the courts-- its just too unlikely. Despite this strange inconsistancy-- I love Alex. The scene where she was alone watching Rachael Yamagata perform from last Thursday really took her off the fence my mind had placed her on. I love her. Anyways, if people think that season 2 hasn't been up to par, then I'm sure the show's writers will only improve and learn from their mistakes. |
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#58 | |||
Dedicated Fan
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 607
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"Like even if you’re dating a totally hot guy that really likes you, you can still get flustered by a bobble-headed geek in size 27 jeans." - Summer on The O.C.
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#59 | |||
Elite Fan
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 27,570
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Thank you thank you thank you soooo much! Thats all I needed to do! Now I have episodes 8 and 9 downloading too! Thank so much! |
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#60 | |||
Fan Forum Hero
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 57,360
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Totally love this idea and I think it would have been better. At least we might have been able to see Seth/Summer talk about things, other than just try to win her back in the beginning and then maybe Summer/Zach work towards something that would have made Seth jealous, like where we are now. The beginining of the season with S/S was just not fun or enjoyable and it made Zach look stupid. Maybe if they had gone in this direction, he would have been more likeable. __________________
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