VENICE aired its final episode of Season One on Friday night complete with soapy cliffhanger. Now that the first 12 episodes have been released, it's time to look back on what worked, what didn't work, and what could use some work.
What Worked
Jessica Leccia's Ani. Ani was the most appealing character from VENICE. It's not that Jessica Leccia was underappreciated on GUIDING LIGHT, but anyone working opposite the magnificent Crystal Chappell has a chance of being overshadowed. But on VENICE, Leccia really shined. Ani had a depth that was missing from some of the other characters and the episodes she was on were much more entertaining than those she where she didn't appear.
The scenery. The show was set in Venice Beach and there was never any doubt about that at any time. The setting was gorgeous and it felt like we were there. From the beach to the restaurants and other settings, we got a feel for what Venice was like and it served the show well to capitalize on the locale.
The Music and Theme Song. "Venice Beach" by Jen Foster is a brilliant theme song. All the music used on VENICE worked well and fit in with the mood of the show (thus the Indie Soap Award recognition for Best Use of Music).
Guya. After her first appearance in the second episode, I was sure this character would fall into the "What Didn't Work" bucket but somehow, thanks to Hillary B. Smith, she won me over. I'm interested to know more about her and hope we find out in Season Two.
Sami. We only got two scenes of the brilliant Gina Tognoni as Sami, but she left me wanting more. It would serve the show well to flesh this character out a bit more.
Michelle N. Carter: I wasn't familiar with her work prior to VENICE, but really enjoyed her appearances as Michele throughout the season.
Nadia Bjorlin. Bjorlin does not get a lot of credit from some fans for her acting ability on DAYS OF OUR LIVES, but she was quite appealing on VENICE. And is there a more beautiful, physically perfect human being in the planet? Ani and Lara drew me in thanks to Bjorlin and Leccia.
What Didn't Work
The Colonel. This character felt like a bad cliché from the first moment we saw him. He seemed like either a typical homophobic father, one that you would think a character of Gina's age would have dealt with by now, or a closet case. Based on the finale, it could be the latter. Either way, it was disappointing to have to watch this type of relationship on such a gay positive show taking place in Venich Beach.
Tracy. I have been a huge Lesli Kay fan for over a decade but by the time we got to the finale and the "British" accent was in full force I was totally confused. Maybe I wasn't listening close enough on previous shows but the accent seemed to go in and out.
Gina. This one really pains me to type. Crystal Chappell has earned her "Goddess" stripes and I have always said she could make anything work. But Gina was kind of unappealing. She was too hard, and not that likeable. Chappell did her best but the writing could have made this character more sympathetic. She hated her father, jerked Ani around, didn't like Sami for some unexplained reason and seemed rather controlling and self-involved. Hopefully we'll see some of her softer side in Season Two.
The F-ing Profanity. I am not a prude and can "cuss like a sailor" when I need to. But the profanity on this show felt a bit like a kid who just learned how to swear and is trying to work a cuss word into every sentence. It diminished some of the scenes for me.
The Editing. At times it felt like this show was edited out of order. Ani disappeared for several episodes and returned as if no time had passed. The Tina Sloan scene in episode two seemed thrown in out of place and I'm still not sure I understand it or why it was there.
What Needs Some Work
Gina and Owen. On paper this brother-sister duo should have worked better. But something was off. Perhaps it was because they seemed to act like 20-year-old siblings versus their real ages. I want to enjoy this relationship.
The Writing. Season One felt like a mish-mosh of characters and stories and perhaps the editing impacted my feelings on the writing. The lead character, Gina, needs more appeal that just the talents of Crystal Chappell. I want to like her and root for her even if she's screwed up. This seems like the most crucial element to improve for the next batch of episodes.
Other Thoughts
Subscription Model. Having produced indie projects myself, I am not going to diss anyone's business model. If any of these web soaps are going to sustain they have to be profitable. A subscription model was obviously what the VENICE team felt gave them their best chance. But it would be nice if VENICE could figure out a way to make the episodes available to the general public even if it was a few weeks later that subscribers see them. It was hard to promote the show without being able to embed the episodes each week and it somewhat limited the show to diehard fans who were going to watch no matter what.
Alan. It is always great to see Michael Sabatino in anything, but as with Sloan's Katherine, there wasn't much point to the character in Season One. We don't really need to include every possible type of character if they don't add value.
Premise. The first episode was very promising and set up what seemed like the ongoing Gina and Ani story. Then Ani completely disappeared. On a show of this length perhaps focusing on those two characters and their lives would be better for the show in the long run.
Conclusion
This review was meant to put out my honest thoughts about Season One. I hope the negative doesn't overshadow the positive. Anyone who cares enough to produce an ongoing web soap opera is a winner in my book. Congratulations to Crystal Chappell, Kim Turrisi and Hope Royaltey for getting this show out there and wanting to continue it. We would not likely see a show like VENICE on television and it is fantastic to see gay relationships portrayed just like straight ones, flaws and all. The show meant an awful lot to thousands of fans. When you strike a chord like that, you must be doing something right. There are always going to be elements to work on and improve, but in the grand scheme of things enough worked on VENICE to consider it a success.
Now that I've had my say, what did you think? Please grade Season One in our poll below (A being the best and F being the worst) and share your thoughts in the Comments section.
Spot on review! Jessica Leccia is great and Ani is probably the best written of the characters. The writing needs work, not horrible, but it could be so much better. Love the locale and music. Love Nadia as Lara and HBS as Guya.
ReplyDeleteAnother thing that's been bugging me that you didn't mention was the physical intimacy on-screen. I wasn't expecting a L Word type porn escapade, but I was hoping for more skin shown, something we could've seen on daytime. Gina and Ani should've been topless under those sheets in the first epi and Tracy and Gina should've been taking off clothes in their scene. What are your thoughts about this, We Love Soaps?
Overall, I think it's pretty amazing what they accomplished in such a short time. I hope that Team Venice reads this and other reviews and makes improvements accordingly. :)
Excellent review. I thought that your comments were dead on point. This is a project that so many of us want to succeed but being a supporter does not mean that we should refrain from offering constructive criticism of the product. Some times, soap journalists seem to fawn too much and fail to honestly criticize various parts of the show. I congratulate you for offering an honest review and detailing the positive and negative points. Hopefully, Crystal and Kimmy can learn from some of the constructive criticism and produce an even better product in Season 2.
ReplyDeleteI was under the impression Gina was supposed to be unappealing and unlikeable in the first season. The way she jerks people around (especially Ani) is proof of that. She is a VERY screwed up, negative character who for me is very hard to sympathize with. It didn't help that she's not very open about her feelings. She's built up this wall that the viewer's can't even see passed. So there really hasn't been that much development yet to feel or understand exactly how she is feeling and thinking. The finale was the first time I got a real sense of her inner turmoil and I felt a twinge of sadness for her. Her reaction to her conversation with Ani, followed by Ani leaving was the first time I felt she was beginning to realize how badly she messed up her life. I do believe she will slowly become more like-able and understood as the story unfolds.
ReplyDeleteAs for Gina and Owen. Sorry, I loved them. There was some great chemistry there and it was really fun to watch Crystal and Galen together.
Also loved the Colonel. Scary guy, the colonel. The message is loud and clear he's the reason why Gina is so screwed up. His character worked for me brilliantly.
Thank you so much for your honest review, pointing out what did and didn't work. My feelings are very similar and as Columbus stated, I hope the Venice team can take the information and develop a great second season.
ReplyDeleteGood review. Far more diplomatically presented than I would have managed.
ReplyDeleteI wanted this project to be good and succeed. I suppose it has succeeded if one goes by the deluge of fawning tweet from the fanatics. It just isn't anywhere near good.
I honestly only hoped for adequate writing. I didn't even get that. The writing is horrifyingly bad. No actor on earth could make this dreck watchable. It is _astonishingly_bad! Kind of boggles my mind just how very bad it is, really.
I'm done. I'd wish them the best of luck, but since they've made it very clear Turrisi is going to stay as the sole writer and there is nothing wrong with the writing Thank You Very Much (I mean, really!), I can't even muster up any good will for false platitudes anymore.
It rankles that so many queer viewers are lapping up this garbage and then giving such profuse thanks for the "feast." I dearly wish this kind of manic enthusiasm would be offered for worthwhile LGBT projects.
Others can deify Chappell and Turrisi. I can only feel embarrassed for them.
Thank you for such an honest review. I hope Crystal and Kimmy will read your constructive criticism and take it to heart. I also want to extend a special thank you for mentioning Hope Royaltey; it's appreciated to give credit where credit is due.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your review Roger and I think the Venice team will take your comments positively. I disagree about the relationship between Owen and Gina, I thought it worked and was probably the best relationship on the show. I thought Galen getting the role after the other two actors had to drop out was a great move. I agree with your positives, this was cast very well by Crystal. Jessica was fantastic as Ani and it was probably the most well rounded of the characters. I do agree that we are supposed to not like Gina initially and the next season will be about finding out who she is. I like Lesli Kay too but the character was just a cliche' and the accent was just unnecessary. The other great casting move was the role of Lara going to Nadia instead of The L Word actress. Nadia is talented but unfortunately DOOL does not give her alot to work with. She was very good and her chemistry with Jessica was very good. I do find myself laughing at the Venice fans who when they found out about the casting change to Nadia were all up in arms and now they are fawning all over her. Finally, I agree, I do not need to see nudity but there needs to be more love/sex scenes in Season 2. The freedom of the internet is one of the reasons Crystal brought the product here so let's hope Season 2 ramps it up. Thanks again Roger for your honest critiques. I am sure Crystal and her team will take them positively.
ReplyDeleteGreat review; acknowledges the good and the areas for improvement in a constructive way. Hope that these comments can help Venice to develop and grow.
ReplyDeleteI just have to say something and then I am done!
ReplyDeleteBe it good or bad Venice was in my view just an awesome thing for Crystal Chappell to do. She did not have to put her money out, ask friends to help, and actually do any of this. She did it out of LOVE. That is a rare and beautiful thing. For someone who could of just walked away and continue their work on Days!
For that reason alone, I will support Venice and the V-team! All of those people that did not enjoy it,fine, you have expressed your opinion, So move on! Venice is not perfect, But the intent behind it being made at all is just a beautiful thing.
I do love both CC, and Venice as a whole product; however, I agree that there are areas that could use tweeking. I concur with the areas you mentioned. I think my biggest concern is with the 3-month subcription model. I will continue to subscribe as long as Venice is out there, but I hate that it limits the new viewership. I would love to see Venice become a very successful and lucrative endeavor for Crystal and all involved. Both b/c I want that kind of success for Crystal, and b/c I selfishly want Venice around as long as possible.
ReplyDeleteGreat review, thank you! I agree with almost every word (I actually liked Gina's and Owen's relationship and found the music a bit overbearing). Venice has great potential, some of which has been already realized - gorgeous visuals and great acting - now we only need a story that gives us an idea who these characters are, where they're going and why we should care...hopefully that'll come in Season 2.
ReplyDeletefunky monkey, I can see your point about physical intimacy. I think I was so happy just to get any type of "Otalia" payoff in the first episode I wasn't focused on that angle as much. But I definitely think these web shows have the opportunity to push the envelope and that's probably not a bad idea, especially with such a talented and sexy cast.
ReplyDeleteAs for Gina and Owen, they grew on me as the season went on, but I sort of felt like they were written as younger with all the drinking and their attitudes. But I'm glad people enjoyed them.
Thanks for the comments everyone. This show obviously meant a lot to many of us so happy to hear everyone's thoughts now that the first season is over.
Keep supporting VENICE and other indie soaps! So much great creativity out there working with tiny fractions of the budgets of daytime soaps.
I'm so glad someone else didn't like Owen and Gina - agree that they didn't work for similar reasons. While they had moments of "cute", their kind of dysfunction was a major turn-off; too much teenage self-indulgence between the pair. And them as the central duo, well, who thought that would be a good idea?
ReplyDeleteAll in all, I really enjoyed your review. Nicely done!
very good review! i agree with everything being said!
ReplyDeleteI gave Season One of Venice an A, am still celebrating, and am pleased that Season Two is already underway. Season Two would not have already been assured without two things - success and fans. It has had both.
ReplyDelete.
Now to some constructive criticism.
I hope that they will be able to produce longer episodes (which they have said they want).
I hope they take the music overlay off of BtS, or employ some other solution. Fans want to hear what is being said. That's a problem with voices overlapping, with ambient noise and with music overlay.
I hope they will give us more physical and sexual intimacy and images. Lara kissing Ani was incredible. The "wall sex" and its prelude between Tracy and Gina was magic! But, there should have been more. I accept that the first part of the first episode was sort of the fulfillment of a promise - that kiss, kissing. Then, we go on.
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I have no problem with the profanity or the drinking. And, if it makes the actors feel freer (as was said) I am all for it because this show seems to be very creative, organic, open and I would suspect that is a part of why the acting performances are so good.
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The only episode where I had trouble with the editing was Epi 2 & after that the editor and editing changed & it worked for me.
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I thought Gina & Owen were excellent as siblings & it brought out performance in Galen I was pleasantly surprised at! They look & seem like siblings. Then, fleshing out the family, Guya is incredible and the Colonel is remarkable since he is so real & authentic but also because so much of Gina's life being stuck is because of her relationship with him, even to this day. She still wants him to be proud of her, even at this age & he's not been & not gonna be, unless we see some change.
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To me, the writing in Venice is one of the strongest points. Over & over again, I was so pleased with the dialogue, whether witty, clever, funny or heart-wrenching. I didn't expect to & I am not overly prone to tears (I am a soap fan, though.) but more than half the episodes had something said in some scene that made me cry & touched feelings deep inside me.
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I love all the actors.
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I hadn't seen Michelle in anything before and she cracks me up, while being a truth teller, one of those people in the story you can look to point out the reality.
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Nadia Bjorlin is someone I saw grow, as an actress from her DAYS 1.0 to her current DAYS 2.0 to even more, exploding growth in Venice! Watching that is so exciting. And, otherwise I'm just in love with her & Jess together. About the beauty, I don't know if she is the most beautiful person in the world, but I think she is the most beautiful in soaps - daytime or web!
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I loved the scenery, the lighting, the shots for the most part ... I think it was essential that this show be the story of Gina (who she was) and the people in her life. I think it was essential that Jess & CC play characters other than Natalia and Olivia, IOW, that it was not Olivia 2.0 and as KT & CC talked about it before, it was understandable that this was going to be difficult and a fine line, initially. I think reducing it to being about Ani & Gina would have been disastrous.
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Equally I think it would be disastrous to show the episodes free after they've been shown by subscription. Next go round tons of subscribers would be gone - waiting for the free!
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I hope I get to buy a DVD with extras.
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I hope I get to buy a soundtrack CD.
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If I had to say what was strongest onscreen it would be Crystal as Gina. I like flawed characters. She & Jess both play that kind of character & we know it from the first moment. I like the space for flawed characters to grow.
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I am on it for the roller coaster. And, Season 1 has been a totally worthwhile ride. To me.
Roger, oh believe me as an Otalia fan, I squeed with delight during that first episode seeing them kiss in bed.
ReplyDeleteCompared to most same-sex intimacy on regular daytime, I think Venice is on par or better. But, I would think with all the drinking and swearing, they'd push the sex a bit. And, like I said, it doesn't have to be porny.
I'd be happy with a scene like an Olivia/Philip had on GL (The one with the pants unbuckling, etc.) or heck, even the Kish one from OLTL (taking off the shirts, etc.). It could be hotter and still tastefully done.
Great, balanced review. I agree with much; I disagree with some. I liked it a lot, but you’re right, there’s room for improvement.
ReplyDeleteThe editing/continuity had some big problems. Had me asking, “Is this the same day?” “Wait, weren’t they just…?” We noticed.
In the first half of the season, the writing featured way too much exposition. Characters standing/sitting around EXPLAINING things. I’m not the first to point out that old writing adage, show don’t tell. I think we had to endure 4 scenes in which characters talked about the Colonel’s homophobia! I don’t think we even needed one. The brunch scene where he displays it was enough. This improved considerably in the second half of the season; I hope in season 2 it disappears completely.
Tracy didn’t work for me. I think this is because she was foisted upon us. Gina makes it known that she doesn’t want to commit to Ani; the next thing we know, she seems interested in doing just that with Tracy, whom we don’t know at all. I think Gina should have played the field a bit before becoming so immersed in one person. We didn’t get to see this relationship develop; we were just asked to accept it. When Tracy declared her love in the final episode, my reaction was: Huh? Really? Conversely, the Ani/Lara relationship is being allowed to be introduced, develop realistically, and grow. We are seeing it happen, rather than having it shoved at us, and it works.
Tracy must, must, must lose that accent. It’s awkward, inconsistent, and distracting. In the span of the same scene, we heard “Annie” and “Ahni.” Not good.
I disagree about the Colonel. If it hadn’t been shoved down our throats so often before we even met him that he disapproves of his kids, particularly Gina’s being gay, maybe he wouldn’t have come off as so cliché. The reveal in the finale made his chastising of his kids make total sense. He’s a holier-that-thou, bigoted hypocrite. For me, that worked.
I disagree about Gina. I can think of another character played by a certain actress who was frequently not likable, but would often show signs of heart and soul, and that saved her even as she was doing heinous things. Maybe I’m just used to it, but I don’t have a problem with Gina being a self-centered bitch. I liked the conceit of her playing online poker. She clearly is someone who likes to gamble…and she expects to win. She can’t handle it when control of the situation eludes her.
I like the potential with Sami. But these scenes, too, suffered from exposition-itis. Let’s delve into the character more in season 2. Oh, in case you didn’t catch it, she’s worked for the Peace Corps, dug an irrigation system, handed out AIDS vaccines, and is an all-around saint. Please stop telling us this! Personally, I hope Gina digs around and finds out she embezzled the church funds. Or launched a Ponzi scheme.
For season 2, I hope they just show these characters living their lives. Stop explaining everything. Put in some plot twists (and just plain old plot points). Keep the Gina/Ani relationship ebbing and flowing. Delve deeper into existing characters, rather than introduce too many new ones.
Looking forward to season 2.
Nadia,even out acted crystal,lol.Crystal must have been terrible in venice.I don't think kimmy is very good at writing for an alpha, that is so complicated and fucked up.Looks like she is good at writing for fluffy bottoms only.hope it gets better and crystal picks up her acting.
ReplyDeleteGreat review of the show. I agree on some of the strong points.. YES Jessica Leccia was brilliant in Venice she really shine with or without CC on the scene. I love Owen and Gina I found was the most sincere relationship there aside of Gina and Ani. LOVE NadiaB. This is one of the times that destiny calls for the best(remember she wasn't cast at first as Lara).
ReplyDeleteThe subscrition model is something that bothers me a little..the time limit that is..just 3 month and what about new fans that are getting the news about the show and wants to be able to watch it? or others that cann't pay for it (and by the way the price is just right) I wonder..what about sponsors?? Team Venice and us fans give a lot of free publicity for some products... Just some random thoughts.
I love Venice and Team Venice.. CC, Kimmy and Hope great job!
I admire the review you published here. It layed out the positive and negatives in a way that will help Venice become even better.
ReplyDeleteI loved the relationship between Gina and Owen. I think their teenage attitudes shows how messed up they really are. I think Gina was supposed to come off as hard and closed off from everyone. I love love the slow build of Lara and Ani. It has the potential of being a real relationship. I know we are supposed to want Gina and Ani together but I am torn. But I do not want Gina with Tracy. Didn't like her but I think with her angry outbursts that was the goal.
There are some negatives too. The flow was a little off. Jessica being in epi 1 and then not again until epi 7 was not a good idea. I think in season 2 they should try to weave the same characters into each episode and allow us to follow the relationships that way.
I did not have a problem at all with the writing. It came off like a normal soap to me. The look was amazing and the cast is beautiful. The directing was great and the editing could be improved. I admire that they took the risk of subscription. I agree it limited who would watch but they had to look at this from a business stand point if they wanted to give their fans what they wanted.
Overall, I gave the show an A. Crystal set out to give her fans something. It was a gift essentially. Something she didn't have to do but did it because her love for the fans is real.
I for one can not wait for Season 2
so we can jump back into these characters and relationships.
Thank you for the honest review! I like how you clearly defined what worked and what didn't. The VTeam would benefit to take note of the strengths and weaknesses of Venice you've outlined in preparation for its next season.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your take on the premise. Gina and Ani should be front and center in this series given the time constraints and the combustible chemistry CC/JL have onscreen. I think it's best to capitalize on that.
I agree with a lot of the points that were made. I subscribed to Venice purely based on the chemistry between Crystal and Jessica and wanting to see them continue to work together. I have been disappointed with the disjointed episodes and having to "fill in the blanks" as to what might have happened to help make sense of the story. I can understand Gina being flawed but only showing her flaws and not her good points, doesn't do her any favors.
ReplyDeleteI concur that they need to focus on Gina and Ani as there's so much potential there and that's what drew people to Venice initially. The cast is amazing and the writing just doesn't meet their talent.
Great review! I agree on almost every point. Jessica Leccia was the stand out with Hilary B. Smith a close second, Gina and Owen were disappointing (far too similar and both unlikeable/unsympathetic, a situation which definitely didn't improve when they were sharing screentime), neither The Colonel nor his relationship with Gina were compelling in the slightest and every aspect of the writing needs work, especially the characters, story and pacing.
ReplyDeleteI do disagree about the music and the placement, as I found the music overbearing and, more often than not, it distracted from rather than enhanced what was on screen.
As others have said though, I hope the Venice team take on board everything you've written, positive and negative, and use it constructively.
I agree completely Roger! I wanted this show to work so badly (still do), but honestly the only scenes I could really get into were Ani's, for all the reasons you listed, especially the writing.
ReplyDeleteSo i read your review again,and it seems the only two drawbacks to venice being a success are 1. Crystals acting and 2. kimmys writing.There is nothing new here,this is just recycled shit from the sss board .Be original bud.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all I have to say that I thought the cast of Venice was absolutely amazing and disagree with your review of the Colonel. I thought his scenes with Guya were amazing.
ReplyDeleteI love the character of Gina, she is different than most characters I have seen on TV. She is complex and mysterious and she makes me like her and want to root for her. Crystal Chappell blew me away several times this seasons. I could watch her fight and cry all day. I think she is absolutely amazing. There are no words...
Nadia Bjorlin has blown me away as well and I love her character on Venice. I love her confidence and brazeness and feel she has a sweet side to her. I love her and Ani.
Hillary B. Smith was fantastic and I loved her scene with Tina Sloan as well as the Colonel. I love her comedic timing.
I love Michael Sabatino's Alan and look forward to seeing more of him. I think Alan is charming and funny. Michele Carter and Harrison White are also perfect integrations to this show in my opinion.
I thought the scenery was stunning and the show was beautifully shot in HD. It is one of the most visully stunning shows I have seen. I absolutely adore the music.
Overall, I really find Venice to be refreshing and unlike any other show I have seen. I thought the cast was stellar and I loved the story. I have also found it to be amazing to be able to watch a show go from a conception to reality through social networking. Bravo Venice.
I agree with most everything in the review--love the scenery, Sami (hope she has a secret, etc.), except that I believe it's okay for Gina not to be likable. I'm assuming she is in for some sort of redemption arc. There are tons of shows with unlikable main characters. House, for example.
ReplyDeleteI also disagree that the relationship between Gina and Owen is a weak point. I thought it was the strongest relationship on the show. They're supposed to be juvenile. They're both in a state of arrested development. That's part of the conflict of the show--they need to grow up. The only thing that's appealing about either one of them is that they stick together and are there for each other and Guya.
The biggest problem with the show is the writing. The dialogue is trite, and the plot structure disjointed. It was like watching the Reader's Digest version of a soap, which made it impossible to get invested in the characters, despite the great actors. Everything happened too fast with no build-up. I know the episodes are short, but other web series manage to tell coherent stories with nuanced character development, and that's mostly on the writer.
All that said, I consider Venice a gift given out of love and will always support it in any way I can. I most sincerely thank Crystal Chappell for doing this and look forward to Season 2.
I really enjoyed Venice season one.I think it's amazing that Crystal Chappell took fan letters that she received at GL and made a show from them for the fans.Who were left wanting more intimacy between Olivia and Natalia.For an actress to go so far to please her fans is extraordinary.I thought Venice was beautifully shot and the characters were full of life with endless possibilities.Kimmy Turissi's writing was to me the vision that Crystal wanted to portray in Venice the webseries.
ReplyDeleteGood review, Roger.
ReplyDeleteI was lucky enough to be one of the gift subscription recipients, or I wouldn't have been able to enjoy Season 1 at all.
Overall, I enjoyed the show. I believe Gina as an anti-hero. She's just not in the place in her life where she's the protagonist I think so many of us want her to be.
I loved Gina and Owen's relationship, and their relationship with Guya.
Alan was a throwaway guest appearance, if we never see him again I'm fine with that, but I don't understand why we had the Tina Sloan scene. If we were introducing a character, I wanted more. If we were just using it as exposition to see that Guya acts differently with clients than with her family, then the scene was way too long.
I think my biggest complaint was the final episode. Lesli Kay - and I adored her in the role and her chemistry with Crystal Chappell was sweet - needed to pick an accent and stick with it. The final episode seemed choppy and with the exception of the final 'cliffhanger' bit, just didn't seem finale-worthy to me.
I don't know if I will be able to watch Season 2, but I hope they continue to build upon what they've built: a classy, engaging soap that is far & away better than most of the network product currently on air.
As a whole, I believe the first season of Venice worked. Why? Simply because this venture should have failed. They had no operating budget; asked friends to participate for free and worked their tails off simply to put something together for their fans. Were there flaws? Yes. Rome was not built in a day, why should we expect a web series to be? Whether or not the character of Gina is likable is beside the point. If the show concentrated simply on an Ani-Gina dynamic, people would complain that it was boring.
ReplyDeleteWell, I actually just finished watching all 12 episodes back to back and much of my original opinions about the show not flowing very well were erased. I can see how each episode went into the next (with the exception of epi 2). Try watching all the episodes together. I can even connect a little better with Gina. Again i think she is supposed to have a cold feeling to her. Crystal acted that beautifully.
ReplyDeleteI am excited for season 2 and I am convinced that Team Venice is going to take all of our reviews and improve this show. I know they have learned alot in this process and I am happy to have witnessed the journey so far.
Thanks Roger for your review of Season 1 of Venice. I had made my comments previously on Season 1 on Facebook, along with suggestions for Season 2, which I'll copy here (saves my brain having to work this early in the morning!)
ReplyDeleteI am only offering my feedback/suggestions as I want Venice to reach the heights that I know it can reach. Venice has certainly been hotly debated on the BPD board, and I don't think that would happen if we didn't care so deeply about this show and want it to succeed.
And so to my feedback/suggestions:...
Some here have already alluded to the dialogue. I know there are budgetary constraints, but if it is in the budget, I think it would be beneficial to have another writer on board. Personally, I would love it to be Jill Lorie Hurst. (If you need to make more money for another writer to come on board, then I suggest you get Nadia wearing the Venice Panties this time around...Crystal has done her turn :-)
I also agree with some that say that the cursing needs to be cut down (although I must admit I derive great pleasure hearing Jessica swear, especially after her 'holier than thou' role of Natalia! :-). These women are all highly intelligent and extremely successful businesswomen, and the language they use should be more appropriate. (Also, if you get Gina to throw the word 'hubris' in a sentence, I'd be very happy!)
Also, as a member of team international, I notice that there has been a bit of overuse of americanised words. Perhaps you could tone the useage down considering you have a large international following?
(contd)
ReplyDeleteSuggestions for the characters:
Gina....as many have stated, we need some backstory of what happened between her and Ani, especially if we are meant to be rooting for this couple to reunite. This could be achieved through flashback or continuous intense conversations between Gina and Ani. One of the great things that GL did so well was keep forcing Otalia together through circumstances. I think this method could be used in Venice to great effect. This would make them face their feelings more and also cause problems between their current respective relationships. Also, we need to get more insight into how Logan hurt Gina. Additionally, more interaction between Gina and her father, so that we can get a better understanding of the dynamic between the two. We also need more character development of Gina herself....softer, romantic side. And just as we saw in her role as Olivia in GL, we need to see the sexy, self assured, kick-ass, businesswoman that we know she can be.
Tracy....at this moment in time, I feel that I don't have any clear vision of this character. Lesli's acting chops are not in doubt, but she needs to be given more air time, so that we can get a better sense of her. Clearly if Gina is interested enough to want to date her (as opposed to her usual 'wham, bam, thank you maam' approach!), then we need to know what makes Tracy tick and what is it that attracts Gina to her.
Ani...I really like Jessica in this role and she's done a wonderful job in Season 1. For Season 2, I'd like to see what made her fall in love with Gina in the first place. I'm liking her pairing with Nadia...definitely plenty of chemistry between the two characters. Jessica just makes me smile everytime I see her on screen, so just more of her.
Lara....Nadia has been the find of the Season in my books. Having never seen her act before, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I love her relaxed style of acting...she makes it look effortless, and I think she is definitely more suited to being the love interest for Ani than Elizabeth Keener would have been. For Season 2, I would like Lara's character fleshed out a bit more....how she got into writing...possibly as a form of escapism from the problems at home, more about growing up in the family that she did and how having an alcoholic father affected her. For Ani and Lara, I would like to see the continued romance (which for a diehard fan of Otalia, I can't believe I've just said that). When I say romance, I'm not talking about sex scenes. I want to be taken on a slow romantic journey with this couple....dancing to a romantic song after a homecooked meal, star gazing, romantic walks.
(contd)
ReplyDeleteI feel that both sets of couples need to get to a time in their relationships where the issue of commitment comes up...and that is the exact point where they either decide they are with the right partner or not. Of course, to heighten the tension, one of them should realise they are with the wrong partner before the other does. Then let the battle commence to win her back! I think for this to happen for Gina, she will have to do a lot of soul searching before she comes to the realisation that she is in the position to offer Ani the type of commitment that she deserves.
Gina's father....I have to admit I had slight reservations beforehand of Jordan playing this part, but I have to say that he is perfect for the role. I think he gave a standout performance in the scenes he was in, and look forward to seeing him in Season 2. For Jordan's character, I would like to see what it must be like for him as a single parent and the lonliness he must feel at losing his wife. As I mentioned above, more interaction between him and Gina...preferably just the two of them so we can get a better sense of their relationship. Also curious to find out what is with the lipstick on the table!
Owen...I feel that Galen's character definitely needs more character development. I can't quite put my finger on why I haven't taken to the character. Perhaps put him in a scene which is away from family, so that we can get a better sense of him, along with romantic scenes with Sami.
Michelle....for Season 2, I would like her to be given more witty and intelligent dialogue, which is in line with the description of the character as sassy. Work situations between herself and Gina will create an arena for this to happen.
Guya...I like Hillary's character but found that the episode between her and Tina Sloan's character out of sync with the rest of the episodes. They are both fabulous actors and I would like to see follow up meetings between the two, and then find some way to bring Tina's character into the rest of the storyline. For Season 2, maybe we could get some background info on Guya and how she came to move away from her previous life.
Katherine...although we haven't seen much of this character, I think there is plenty of room to play with this character in Season 2. After Guya mentioning a 'she' in the cards to Katherine, we could see her get into all kinds of comical situations in her attempt to 'discover' if she has a lesbian side to her. This could be done by either her watching lesbian films followed by her reaction to said films, going on a blind date, getting chatted up by a lesbian or her attempts at chatting up a woman. Guya could also suggest to her that Katherine hang out with Gina and her friends. Tina could certainly pull it off and would add much needed humour to the storyline.
(contd)
ReplyDeleteSami...Sami is far too goodie two shoes for my liking at the moment (lol), and I just know that there has to be something in her past to make her the person that she is. From Season 1, we've definitely deduced that she's a 'Giver'. So I want to know why she is this way. Perhaps something happened within her family...i.e. a situation which she couldn't control and couldn't do anything about, but now that she is older she is constantly trying to make up for whatever that might have been....just like a child who couldn't deal or help with a family member who was depressed or suicidal, grows up and works as a Social worker. Apart from that, perhaps we could see a jealous or manipulative streak when it comes to Owen.
Jamie...apart from being able to make the perfect martini, we haven't seen much of Jamie. Like all good bar people, Jamie could be used as someone to talk to about their problems whilst he offers them some pearls of wisdom. Also, in his character bio, Jamie is meant to be funny, so need to see that in Season 2.
Alan...while we know in Season 1 that the boy is unique in his own way. Season 2 can delve deeper into his out of office activities and how he came to have such a fetish for boooots!
On a separate issue, just watch out for continuity. In episode 11, Jamie brought shots to the table before Lara and Ani turned up, but when Lara asked if they were celebrating something, the drinks were gone!
One other thing, I do hope that Venice have managed to raise enough money so Crystal won't have so many hats to wear for Season 2. Crystal is an amazing talent and I want her to be able to concentrate fully on the most important job...acting (although full credit must go to you in the directing of the Lara and Ani scene...well done).
Apart from all of the above, I want to be teased in Season 2...it heightens the anticipation and the payoff is so worth it in the end.
At the end of the day, I applaud all those involved in bringing Venice to us, especially with the amazingly quick turnaround of 3 months after GL closed its doors. I appreciate their dedication and time away from their loved ones in order to put this show together.
Thumbs DOWN on your review of Venice....
ReplyDeleteVenice delivered in every way...
As for the character of Gina.. from the beginning , we were told that she was flawed and would be a complex character. Crystal has delivered some amazing scenes. I never thought Gina would be Pollyanna... We all loved "Olivia" on GL and she was not very likeable and difficult most of the time. If everyone would give this show time to build the story instead of taking every opportunity to rip it apart and dissect it... you may enjoy it a lot more. Crystal always delivers...She is at the top of her game and lest we forget SHE is the one in front of the camera and getting emmy pre-noms as well as tons of publicity...
This series has put together some amazing talent. These actors are working for FREE because of their respect for Crystal. That speaks volumes that none of these petty critics can take away.
Jordan owns the role of the Colonel and he and CC work well together...Galen and CC act like siblings and is very believable.
I could go on, but I am wondering if we were watching the same show. Your critic was very confusing and did not flow well. You mixed the characters and the actresses real names and I found that your article lacked continuity. Surely, you have someone to proof read for you.
So, in closing , I say, Relax ...remember this is a Web Soap...it is for entertainment... and that CC and these other actors could just walk away and then you could just go watch L Word DVD's...
Roger, kudos on a very fair and constructive review. I don't completely agree with all of your points but applaud your putting your honest thoughts out there.
ReplyDeleteFabulous review. It is not a coincidence that the best episodes were the ones with Jessica Leccia in them. She brought it in every scene. Crystal Chappell's character was not interesting and not rootable in the least. Her acting was very subpar. Lesli Kay's character was joke with that accent fading in and out. I also found Jordan Clarke's character to be a bit on the boring side. Some people are easily pleased, it seems, and that's their prerogative, but I have no doubt that subscriptions will drop off in a major way for Season 2. Venice was not worth paying for.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Rikita. I wanted to get a good constructive dialogue started on Venice now that the first season is over. It has been great to read all the comments and hear different takes on the characters.
ReplyDeleteThis show was just ok I gave it a C for average knowing this is new and they are still trying things out and learning
ReplyDeleteCC should have used Jessica much more and the chemistry she has with JL. Jessica is far the best actress on this show and shines above all others in every scene she has.
Tracy need to go period Tracy/LK does not have the chemistry with CC that is needed especially the whole I'm in love thing WTF?? (when did that happen?)T/G they just don't click and for me to believe people are in love there needs to be some chemistry period. Tracy's on again off again accent makes me wanna smack someone and to me it is a insult to British people rather she is from there or just lives there your accent would not be there one minute and not be there next just like the southern people you have here in the states even if they move up north for long period of time you can still hear the accent and they say certain words the same not Ani one minute then Oni the next.
episodes 7-12 was the best and that I was able to watch with delight there was so many miss opportunities and they had useless scenes that made no since.
Please no more wall sex I didn't know rather to laugh or get sick but again had to do with chemistry.
CC needs to do most of the directing I feel the ones she directed where amazing to watch. Kimmy needs to get some advice and help with the writing and stop mirroring her life into the show with the drinking and cussing and the other little things like them acting like frat boys.
First of all I want to thank Crystal Chappell for responding to her fan base and taking the time and effort with Kimmy Turrisi to bring us the gay webseries Venice!!! With so little gay based series on television or the internet and a dearth of gay characters, it is refreshing to see a busy actress who has plenty of work and family events going on in her life, go the extra step and produce Venice and try and increase gay visibility. And I really appreciate both her and all this talented and gorgeous cast volunteering their time to film a gay themed series. I am sure even today in Hollywood there is a stigma attached to those associated with gay projects.
ReplyDeleteI thought all the actors did a wonderful job and that they all have great chemistry with each other. Owen and Gina seemed to have a very realistic brother/sister dynamic. And Gina and the colonel's antagonism towards each other seemed to come from years of tension that was only tempered by a mother that is no longer with them. And now Guya is trying to play the roll of peacemaker. Gina isnt perfect right now, she is a flawed character, just like Olivia on Guiding Light. I am assuming we will see her reveal why she is the way she is as the series progresses and see her finally change and find her way back to her true love Ani. I thought dramas needed a plot line to keep things interesting? Maybe everyone wanted all sunshine and roses with "Otalia" and not a brand new show with a new storyline. Why can't it be accepted on its own terms? Sure constructive criticism can be written, nothing wrong with opinions, but there also seems to be a lot of mean spirited comments directed to the show, when all they were trying to do was increase gay visibility. To those people who write such hateful opinions, do as I suggested to those who were disgusted by Otalia: feel free to
not watch. But there are many of us fans out here who are grateful for this type of programming and our enjoying it thoroughly. And are anxious to see what Season 2 will bring. I am sure Crystal and Kimmy will listen to suggestions and do their best to provide an entertaining, quality show.
As for the subscription model, why should gay themed series necessarily be free? Sure we are under-represented, but I don't believe that makes us a charity case. the L-word was on Showtime, a pay based service, and I chose to not pay the extra for the show. I simply waited for DVD's and rented them. I had no expectations that it should be free. Should Lucy Lawless, an actress with a huge lesbian following, have offered her new series up for free instead of on Starz? Rumor is she is topless in scenes, so should she be offering those scenes for free on the internet just to please her fans? I don't think so. I also do not go into a movie that I paid $9 for and expect to be handed a free DVD when I exit it. I simply wait and pay for those I want later.
For as much as Crystal did this for her fans, to continue to produce the show, why is it wrong to try and improve technical aspects, pay for actors travel or other such expenses (hosting on the web) by charging fees?
As for the music, I think its great that Venice is trying to draw attention to new and up and coming artists and showcasing them. Jen's theme song is brilliant and I am loving all the new artists as well.
Thanks so much to Crystal and Kimmy, and all the cast and crew, for their efforts!
I watched CRAZY HEART last night. Perhaps the creators of VENICE should open season 2 with Gina emerging from rehab and trying to get her sh*t together because the character as presently written is thoroughly unsympathetic, which makes trying to connect to her a nearly impossible task. Jessica Leccia is receiving the lion's share of praise in no small part because her character is the one the audience can relate to the easiest and as a result she's become the defacto heroine of the story, which I don't believe was the intent.
ReplyDeleteI get the concept of the anti-hero and have enjoyed it on many occasions -- ex: MY BEST FRIEND'S WEDDING, TAXI DRIVER, DEXTER -- but in the web series format where we only get exposed to the characters in drips and drabs, having the lead be so selfish and unlikable is incredibly risky and, IMO, doesn't work. We don't have enough time or exposure to see who she is or connect with her in quite the same way that the actors/writers apparently have.
I appreciate the ambition but the format doesn't allow for proper execution.
Thanks for the even-handed, agenda-free review, Roger. VENICE has a lot of good things in its favor, as you mentioned and with which I agree, but there is a great deal of work that needs to be done as well. This is commonplace with most initial ventures and shouldn't be considered a bad thing but, instead, educational.
Tanzania's comments are prompting me to expand on my earlier thoughts. Yes, it is easier for the Venice audience to gravitate to the sympathetic character when they feel the lead is written to be so unsympathetic. I personally prefer flawed, layered characters like Olivia Spencer whom CC played so brilliantly. Unfortunately, they did not realize that the Venice audience is still pinning away for the Olivia Spencer of the last year and a half of GL. Which is kinda funny because Olivia was not a sympathetic character for her full ten years on the show. Anyway, I am sure to appease that part of the audience they will write her more sympathetically next season. As Roger indicated CC did her best (as always) but I can see how the unsympathetic writing hindered the characters appeal for some of the audience. Not all.
ReplyDeleteRoger, I think you did a great job starting a dialog about season one.
ReplyDeleteAnd I still think the 12 short episodes of Venice are much better than 90% of what is being produced by the networks right now!
I don't need to be "appeased" with a more sympathetic character. I just need a real, well delineated character instead of a cipher.
ReplyDeleteIt isn't the format that is the problem. (Though when KT said, those many months ago, that she had written Venice like a full length movie then chopped it into web-sized bites, warning bells went off in my head. How can someone _not_ know that couldn't possibly turn out well? Have some respect for the form before you barge in with the "brill" ambitions.)
It is entirely the writing that is the root of all problems. The writing skills simply are not up to the task: The characters are flat; the structure apparent only to the writer herself, I think; the s/l itself and every single bit of dialogue is painfully hackneyed, unimaginative, cliched and utterly prosaic. And wasteful! There are way too many words - and expletives - flying about that don't do a darn thing to add to characterization or advance the story in the least.
Now, maybe things have a slim chance of improving in season 2. I suppose KT could get a ghost writer or learn basic skills really, really quickly and thoroughly. Somehow, given everything I've seen, I don't think either of those things are going to happen, and season 2 is going to be just as big a mess. Luckily, I've learned my lesson and will never actually know.
Good luck with that subscription model. Seems like the ideal way to grow the enterprise. Yep.
I would have liked to have seen a stronger critique of the writing but I think this is a very fair and balanced review. I too would like to emphasize what an incredible asset this series has in its cast. I would agree with your assessment of the characters that didn't work, but only to the extent of how they were written. The actors themselves did a great job (LK peek-a-boo accent aside). I think the Gina character was the biggest victim of the writing in S1. I think CC is one of the most talented actresses we have, but even she couldn't make the character work. I think that's pretty telling.
ReplyDeleteWhat is great about these shortcomings is that they are all fixable. Just as they corrected some of the sound and editing issues, I trust they will look more closely at the issues that have been raised here. I look forward to those announcements from the V-team.
Lastly, at the risk of sounding terribly uncool, I don't understand the emphasis that is being placed on the music. Frankly, I find it distracting. There have been times that an episode has seemed more like a music video than a drama. Is that the desired effect? Is it supposed to act as another character? Any additional thoughts on this would be appreciated.
Thanks for the forum.
Dani, for myself the issue isn't about having an unsympathetic/flawed character, its about a character in Gina that lacks any real dimension. (I watch tons of shows with great anti-heroes as leads too, though honestly most aren't really "romantic" type soaps either)
ReplyDeleteShe's like a sketch, more than a realized portrait which feels ironic since Gina's had the most screen time, and other characters with less screen time like Ani, Guya and even Sami, felt more flesh and blood (granted most all the characters have similar one-dimension problems, but its most glaring around the lead)...it feels like there's no there-there, and for an actor as capable as CC I found this most puzzling - she can bring emotion to scenes for sure, but I was left with a character who felt more phantom, an echo of a figure rather than something more embodied (a guess, more than a statement). A woman with daddy/commitment issues, who likes to drink and swear with a temper that can flare but is emotionally remote? is that enough to anchor a series? So far, not for me.
For myself, it does go back to writing and creative concept - character gets revealed by both dialogue, plot - if the words aren't there, no matter how an actor finds a way to say them, it won't materialize (unless they're allowed a lot of non-spoken, non-music'ed time, which I don't see happening either)...I don't necessarily need more sympathetic traits. I'd settle for some insight, connection, a real reason to care for a character ("care" as in spend my time with, not want to hug and give a puppy to). I need more of a reason than I like the actress who is trying to pull off this partially formed character.
All this aside, the real test of Venice will be what happens in season 2 - if its more of the same, I don't think I could hang out, no matter how much I appreciate the actors involved.
Venice is the product of CC's loyalty to her fanbase. Venice has brought together an awesome cast and some incredible original music.
ReplyDeleteWe always knew it was going to be trial and error as it a new concept. What more could we ask for..they ask our opinions every step of the way from subscription models to storylines etc....
I wonder how many of us would go to work everyday to be torn apart as ruthlessly as you "fans " have done just that to CC,KT and cast. oh and how many would go to work without pay?
How soon we forget that before Venice...GL and Otalia ended. We could all still be in mourning over it. Crystal stepped up, put her reputation and money on the line to bring us Venice. She has a career and did not have to do this and I wouldn't blame her if she has questioned herself as to why she did. She has done so much to unite and give a voice and representation to a community that obviously is best a biting the hand that feeds it. Everyone seemed to be happy with Epi 1 with CC and JL...So, I wonder if you are all still upset that Venice is not The Otalia Show.
Crystal, Jessica, Galen, Hillary, Gina, Lesli, Nadia, Jordan, Michelle, Harrison, Tina,Micheal...Thank-You all !!
Kimmy T. , Thank-you for writing such complex characters. Season One was our foundation and I for one cant wait for season 2.
Bottom line..As you are ripping all of this apart remember....Crystal giveth and Crystal can taketh away!!
I think your last line says it all, Stan. People are so afraid that CC will just take her toys and go home, that they want to squash anything other than sunshine and rainbows about Venice. Those folks are the ones who are disrespecting CC, not the ones who offer critique in hopes of improving Venice. Do you really think that Crystal Chappell thinks so little about herself, her fans and professional reputation that she would just pull the plug on Venice after hearing some criticism? Do you really?
ReplyDeleteIf you enjoy Venice, as is, that's fine. You want to tell us why? Great, go right ahead, but don't try to lay some guilt trip on viewers who don't feel the same. It's a complete disservice to the entire Venice team if viewers, who see problems, simply offer up praise.
1st season was very good and I will watch to the end. Crystal's acting chops must be quite good to convincingly portray an unsympathetic, selfish character such as Gina. I liked the Gina/Owen relationship. My brother and I don't act our age when we are around each other either lol. My one and only criticism of the show, not enough interaction between Gina/Ani. That tops my wish list for season 2. Much thanks and all my gratitude to all the people involved in getting Venice onto the web! Congratulations!
ReplyDeleteYou're a lot more forgiving and generous than I'd be, Roger. Venice is a hot mess: awful writing that's riddled with cliches, still acting, no continuity, careless production values...and it's the same, old business of lesbians being messed up and dysfunctional. Totally unoriginal.
ReplyDeleteoh snapper, you're always so positive...
ReplyDeleteI support Venice but honestly have been disappointed in the writing. I tweeted Kimmy a link to this review, in hopes that she would actually listen to the advice and improve the writing. Fat chance. She actually blocked me on twitter after I sent her this link. That's Open Book Productions for ya!
ReplyDeleteI loved Venice. I thought it was worth more than the price of the two Caramel Macchiato's it cost me. Is it perfect? No. Does it have room to grow? Certainly. And I look forward to watching it do so.
ReplyDeleteI am a huge supporter of CC, Kimmy and Team V, and I get that not everyone loved it and wants to heap praise on it. Constructive criticism is fine when directed at the people that can affect change.
What bothers me is the downright hostility and meanness I have been witness to over this web series.
Speak your peace, say what you feel, but please, be respectful... it really isn't that much to ask.
I understand that without some criticism there is no way of improvement, but some of the criticism displayed by unhappy viewers is destructive and its kind of frustrating for those who truly appreciate what a wonderful thing this is that has been given to us.
ReplyDeleteSomeone mentioned that Crystal gave this to us and she can just as easily take it away. It's true.
There is room for improvement with every show - even the most successful ones.
This is new and has a lot of potential.
They actually ask for our opinion - its the delivery of some people's opinions that turns them away because it comes off as an attack.
Overall, I love it. It's something I looked forward to every Friday and I love the whole group of people who put this all together. They are amazing. Thank you.
Excellent review Roger, just wanted to make sure I mentioned that. I can't really find anything to fault in what you said, as I appreciate how clear you were about your particular POV. I found the review to be both insightful and respectful. Well done.
ReplyDeleteIt was a decent review. I would agree on some of it and at disagree at other parts. I like some have expressed a curiosity at the down right hostility of some of the criticism the series has received. I came into all of this very late. I came to the GL Otalia story 5 days before the show ended. What I have seen CC do is amazing to me. She did what she did for fans. Are there really actresses or actors out there doing stuff just for the fans? No it is usually all about what they can do to make money. I didn't expect the show to be perfect. I think some people did. Will season 2 be better? I am sure it will. They have asked for suggestions all the way through and I have seen some of them implemented after the first two episodes. I think DaX has some great points.
ReplyDeleteI had no problem with Gina and connected with her. She is not a likable character, but I think the problem is people love Crystal so they have a hard time hating the character. I had no problem with paying and would pay again. I only think it fair. Why shouldn't CC be allowed not to have to fork over all her money to make something? My other issue is with lots of people making issue over the swearing. I am not sure who they hang around with (maybe church people), but this was nothing compared to what I hear come out of work colleagues, friends and the general public I am around.
I am excited for season 2 and will support it in whatever way I can.
First I would like to thank Crystal Chappell for giving a damn! Although, I thought your review was fair and pretty on the nose, I have to say that her desire to create a series that was fresh, all people inclusive, and socially significant has infact become just that. Crystal status has moved from being a Super Soap Star to a endeared and respected equality advocate. Her series has infact created a venue of communication amoung many people who otherwise would not have had a chance to see their lives reflected or had a chance to meet others who share their plight.
ReplyDeleteWe could all decide what chemistry is most fitting for which characters, but in the big picture, Venice has surpassed any recent attempt from the media to capture such a large following. Ruby Payne once said, In order to change poverty the rich must sit at the same table as the poor. That is exactly what it will take for any social change to occur in the media. Straights and gays must be able to communicate. Venice has opened this door to a signifcant number of both.
I say " hell Yeah! way to go Venice!"