Monday, 13 October 2014
Strictly Come Dancing 2014: Week 3 (part 2)
Last time, I reviewed the first 7 performances of the night, from the opener with Alison's Jive all the way up to the halfway point with Caroline's Rumba. So in this part, I'll be looking at the second half of the dances, from Scott's Samba until the ending number with Mark's Paso Doble. I will also be giving my thoughts on the dance-off, and the elimination.
Scott & Joanne - Samba - "Under the Sea" from The Little Mermaid
Poor poor Scott. This dance just reminded me of my brother-in-law's running joke of 'I'm a craaab! *pincer, pincer*', and Scott looked so uncomfortable in his crab outfit. I liked Joanne's choreography for this though, a better mix of the theme and the dance style here. That beginning when he stepped sideways with the pincers towards Joanne just makes me giggle every time I watch it. You can see he's really trying and for what it's worth he makes a decent attempt at the technique. His upper half isn't too bad, but his footwork is awful so he really needs to try and sort that out. A much better dance from him though, and he has the American Smooth this week which I believe will suit him much better.
Judges' scores: 2, 5, 5, 6 - with Donny scoring 7 to make it 25/50
My score: 4
Frankie & Kevin - Paso Doble - "America" from West Side Story
I was really unsure about using this song for a Paso Doble, despite its Flamenco stylings it doesn't really have that Spanish flair that more traditional songs have. I'm happy to say that I got proved extremely wrong after watching this routine. However, I'm not as impressed as others were. Dare I say it, I actually preferred Kevin's Paso with Susanna last year. There wasn't as much skirt-swishing for one (Susanna may have done a lot of it, but I'm pretty sure there was much more in Frankie's routine) and I think Susanna got the performance element of it much more than Frankie did - Frankie looked a little like a child having a tantrum at some points. I definitely don't think it deserved the first 10 of the series, bad Donny! It was a really good Paso, but I just don't think it was as good as Susanna's.
Judges' scores: 8, 9, 9, 9 - with a 10 from Donny to make it 45/50
My score: 8.5
Jake & Janette - Waltz - "The Godfather Waltz" from The Godfather
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Brian & Karen in series 5*
I'm not a fan of this music, and I was a bit underwhelmed by the routine. What Jake did was good, I liked the concept and he got into the performance well as usual, but it was just missing something for me. A Waltz is meant (in my opinion anyway) to have a magical feel to it, and I think the song choice really hampered that. I get what Len is saying about swing and sway and Janette could have put some more of that into the choreography (although I feel that there was some in the routine), but I also agree with what Craig said about the theatricality and how it might be spoiled if there was additional swing and sway. In truth, I don't think any of the celebs or pros could choreograph a lovely traditional Waltz with that music (some of the more dance-minded will probably disagree with me there), so I think they were a bit hard on him in that respect. Whilst I'm on it, I think the judges should take into account that most of the time, the song and theme of each routine is decided by the producers and the pros can do nothing about it (this dance, Frankie's Charleston from last week to name but two from this series), rather than criticise them for it. I felt bad for Janette after this dance because of that, a more melancholic Waltz has been praised in the past (I can't remember for sure exactly who this was, but I know there's been at least one) and yet she gets criticism for something that she didn't have much control over. Onwards and upwards, hopefully.
Judges' scores: all 8s - with an 8 from Donny to make it 40/50
My score: 8 (scores were right but I think the critique was a bit too harsh)
Pixie & Trent - Quickstep - "Be Our Guest" from Beauty & the Beast
Oh look it's Barbie & Ken! Sorry, I mean Beauty & the Beast (although for some reason Trent decided to be Lumiére for this routine, love the work that wardrobe did on Pixie's dress though, that was perfect). Yeah, I think it's safe to say that I'm never going to be a fan of these 2. I have to say though, I absolutely loved this routine. I didn't like the end to it, and it took a while to get into proper Quickstep (about 30 seconds), but I loved Trent's choreography apart from that and it worked superbly with the song. Speaking of which, full marks to the singers on this one. I'm not sure who did the main singing but he was brilliant and so was the backing, bravo! Pixie messed up on the leap towards the end and she seemed to go wrong when they were in the top-left corner at the beginning (that might just be the shoddy camera work though), but she was spot-on everywhere else. She's got a Rumba this weekend, and I'm intrigued to see if she can match Caroline.
Judges' scores: 7, 9, 9, 9 - with a 9 from Donny to make it 43/50
My score: 8.5
Thom & Iveta - Charleston - "New York, New York" from On the Town
I haven't been too impressed with Thom in previous weeks, but he really surprised me with this dance, he is most definitely a Latin boy. He lacked a bit of swivel, and he was out of sync with Iveta or went wrong on a few occasions, but I loved the energy and performance that he had. I'm wondering if I might have seen his outfit somewhere before? I remember Scott Maslen's Charleston outfit being similar, and possibly Harry Judd's as well. In all seriousness though, wow, what an improvement! I'm hoping that he can inject this improvement into his Ballroom, because if he does, he will definitely be one to watch.
Judges' scores: 7, 8, 8, 8 - with a 7 from Donny to make it 38/50
My score: 7.5
Sunetra & Brendan - American Smooth - "The Way You Look Tonight" from Swing Time
Whilst Thom's a Latin boy, Sunetra is a Ballroom girl. Everything came together for this routine - traditional music, elegant choreography, classy dress - and this was a joy to watch. Sunetra got this perfectly - her arm lines were finished off beautifully the majority of the time, she had good footwork, and she gave a great performance. There's only 2 things that I found fault with in that routine: the first lift looked messy (as if she got caught off-balance in the transition), and that Sunetra needs to move her head just a little more to the left. That's genuinely it. If she can take the positives from her Ballroom and put them into her Latin, then she'll go far.
Judges' scores: 7, 8, 9, 8 - with an 8 from Donny to make it 40/50
My score: 8
Mark & Karen - Paso Doble - "Theme from Superman" from Superman
Oh. My. God. Poor Mark. He could not look any less masculine if he tried (well, to be honest I compare every male to Mark Ramprakash who for me, exuded masculinity). I'm not sure if I can even really critique this dance. I'll try my best though - his hand shaping seemed a bit odd, and he messed up the leap, and the knee walks (he was off-balance) and then he looked to trip over when he was going towards the phone box at the end. I'll have to give Mark a compliment though - I don't think any other male celeb could have pulled this themed routine off in the way that he did. I hope he goes back to a lovely Ballroom next week, so that I can try and erase this routine from my mind.
Judges' scores: 6, 6, 7, 7 - with a 9 from Donny to make it 35/50
My score: ? I don't entirely know what to give this, so I'll be safe with a nice 5.5
The current recycled song count now stands at 14.
Judges' Leaderboard (excluding Donny's scores, so that it's out of 40):
1. Frankie & Kevin - 35
2. Pixie & Trent - 34
3. Caroline & Pasha - 33
=4. Jake & Janette, Sunetra & Brendan - 32
6. Thom & Iveta - 31
7. Steve & Ola - 28
8. Mark & Karen - 26
9. Simon & Kristina - 23
10. Alison & Aljaz - 21
=11. Jennifer & Tristan, Judy & Anton, Scott & Joanne - 18
14. Tim & Natalie - 17
My Leaderboard (scores multiplied by 4):
=1. Frankie & Kevin, Pixie & Trent - 34
=3. Caroline & Pasha, Jake & Janette, Sunetra & Brendan - 32
6. Thom & Iveta - 30
7. Steve & Ola - 24
8. Mark & Karen - 22
9. Simon & Kristina - 18
=10. Alison & Aljaz, Scott & Joanne - 16
12. Judy & Anton - 14
=13. Jennifer & Tristan, Tim & Natalie - 12
Dance-off: Simon & Kristina vs Jennifer & Tristan. Unlike most people, I wasn't surprised that Simon ended up in the bottom 2. A lacklustre dance, a Rumba nonetheless (ie the 'dance of doom' that put last year's winner Abbey Clancey in the dance-off), coupled with a not-so-popular pro, and the aspersions of Simon's arrogance, and it's not too shocking. Especially, given that Scott has a huge fanbase, Anton has a big fanbase, and Tim has the 'underdog' vote - it was only a matter of time before a mid-tabler like Simon was in the bottom 2.
Elimination: Jennifer & Tristan. Right decision in my opinion - even if Simon had had a meltdown, he would have got through on sheer potential. It's said to say goodbye to them though, they had a lovely partnership and it would have been nice to see more of Tristan as a newbie pro. I guess it just means that he'll be in the Christmas Special, yay!
Next week's blog will see the celebs take on dances including the Paso Doble, the Tango, the Samba, the American Smooth, and the Quickstep. Until then,
KEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP READING!
Sunday, 12 October 2014
Strictly Come Dancing 2014: Week 3 (part 1)
So last week, we found that the Charleston that Gregg had cooked up with Aliona just wasn't good-looking enough, and we said goodbye to them as they were the first couple to leave the competition.
We now arrive at Movie Week, an excuse to shoehorn themed costumes, props and inappropriate songs in with some dancing (ie: any other week but we expect it more of a themed week and it's even worse than usual). Donny Osmond joins as a guest judge, and by the end of the night we wanted him to bugger off back to the US :p
Loved the opening pro-celeb number, with Aljaz and Tristan (iirc) running up the stairs to get to Tess and Claude to escort them down.
In this part of the blog, I'll be running through dances 1-7 of the night (from Alison to Caroline), and part 2 will cover dances 8-14 (from Scott to Mark) as well as the dance-off and elimination. The current recycled song count is at 10.
Alison & Aljaz - Jive - "Footloose" from Footloose
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Colin & Erin in series 3*
Another dance where the theme is that Alison and Aljaz are interested in each other, I'm spotting a pattern here. The beginning intro section was good, but the choreography for the first verse with them just sat on the steps not really doing much was unnecessary and was what I and Len would call 'faffing arahnd'. I think it's fair to say that this dance was never going to be good for Alison and so it proved to be. She was very flat-footed and lacked in energy, although I do think Aljaz was overdancing it a little and so she probably looked worse than she was. It's probably good in a way that she got this dance over and done with early in the competition, as the only real bad dance for her still remaining is probably the Quickstep.
Judges' scores: 4, 5, 6, 6 - with Donny scoring 7 to make it 28/50
My score: 4
Steve & Ola - Quickstep - "I Wanna Be Like You" from The Jungle Book
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Scott & Natalie in series 8*
Hopefully this is the end of the jungle/wild themed songs for Steve, the producers have had their fun now. Nice choreography from Ola here (excluding the end which was just weird), and Steve did well to keep up with it. He had good feet from what I could see, but he needed to maintain a bit more body contact with Ola. He also tended to lose his hold when turning, so he has to try and sort that out before his next Ballroom routine. It looked as though he slipped in front of the judges' desk too. This was probably his best dance though and I think he could be one of the 'dark horses' that tends to go out around top 6.
Judges' scores: 6, 7, 7, 8 - with Donny scoring 6 to make it 34/50
My score: 6
Jennifer & Tristan - Foxtrot - "Mamma Mia" from Mamma Mia
Love the Meryl Streep look on Jennifer, but I think wardrobe could have done a bit better with it so it didn't just look like dungarees stuck on a dress. Also, I'm still struggling to work out how on earth Mamma Mia is a Foxtrot song? And where does the rowing come into it? The choreography looked much better on a second viewing, but I was screaming at my telly for Jennifer to stop miming! It never makes you dance well and I'm not even going to list the mistakes as there's too many. She's in real trouble and I think she might be the one to go tonight.
Judges' scores: 3, 5, 5, 5 - with Donny scoring 5 to make it 23/50
My score: 3
Simon & Kristina - Rumba - "Take My Breath Away" from Top Gun
Not appropriate Rumba attire for Simon there, wardrobe seem determined that the young men should dance in skinny jeans for some reason. Well, Kristina tried her best, with as much distraction work as possible, but Simon really let her down here. He never seems to finish off his arm lines and there was a serious lack of hip action, which is pretty much a requirement in the Rumba. He needs something like a Quickstep or Charleston to get him back on track, but I think he'll end up being the shock exit of the series, and Frankie/Pixie/Jake/Caroline are all so far ahead of him now.
Judges' scores: 4, 6, 6, 7 - with Donny scoring 7 to make it 30/50
My score: 4.5
Judy & Anton - Quickstep - "Don't Rain On My Parade" from Funny Girl
Erm, performing a Quickstep to a track that has been used for a Foxtrot before, huh? Then again, Anton is the master at choreographing slooooow Quicksteps. I'm agreed with Craig here - the illegal lift was the best part of the routine. Judy was a lot better than previous - she kept up with Anton for the most part, and she seemed to maintain her hold relatively well. Her hand did slip on occasion, and she got caught off-balance towards the end, which put her off from then on (the end apart from the lift was awful). I don't know what dance will be a good one for her, so I'll be heading off to the loo whenever she's on from now on.
Judges' scores: 3, 5, 5, 5 - with Donny scoring 5 to make it 23/50
My score: 3.5
Tim & Natalie - Charleston - "Money Money" from Cabaret
Wrong song for a Charleston in my opinion, just a bit too slow, Natalie couldn't do much with it so had to go down the character route (she looked awesome btw). Loved the routine though, really played into the song. Judges, she really couldn't put much technique in there and I believe her when she said it was her fault that Tim started on the wrong foot for a section - it did look as if there was a prop malfunction and so Tim got turned around late as a result. He's got a difficult dance out of the way so that's good, although Paso next week should be interesting!
Judges' scores: 2, 5, 5, 5 - with Donny scoring 5 to make it 22/50
My score: 3
Caroline & Pasha - Rumba - "I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing" from Armagheddon
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Sarah & Brendan in series 2, Nicky & Karen in series 10*
I'm fed up of hearing this song, as much as I might like it. Caroline really impressed me with just how good she was, so full credit to her as I thought this would be a bad dance for her. Those standing spins were gorgeous, absolutely stunning. She just needs to make sure that all of her arm lines are finished off (most of them are but on the odd occasion she doesn't fully extend), that and I was struggling to see the hip action, but I think it might be the dress at fault there. Nice use of the dry ice to hide the feet, but the hair-shaking bit wasn't needed. I actually feel that she was on her own too much and as it was a Rumba, they could have been together a little more. Loved this though, and I'm looking forward to see how she does next week.
Judges' scores: 8, 8, 8, 9 - with Donny scoring 9 to make it 42/50
My score: 8
Part 2 of the blog should be up tomorrow morning. Until then,
KEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP READING!
Monday, 6 October 2014
Strictly Come Dancing 2014: Week 2 (part 2)
Current recycled song alerts: 9
So in this portion of the blog, I'll be covering the second half of the dances from Saturday night. I'll also be giving my verdict on the dance-off and elimination.
Caroline & Pasha - Tango - "Blame"
I wasn't a fan of the song choice, it doesn't really have that Tango beat (see last year's RihannaTango). I think because of that, the routine didn't hold my interest, I found it boring to watch - that's both of Caroline's dances now where I've said that, and that's not a good sign. Caroline's dress was a bit too long and I was waiting for her to get her heel caught, which thankfully she didn't. As for how she did, there were good and bad points. Like with Simon's Tango, I felt she was a bit too fluid (in the hold mainly), not enough staccato for me. She did well on the performance side, but she did lose the aggression when she was out of hold, particularly at the end of the routine. Give her something like a Salsa, with a good song, and hopefully I'll end up transfixed to the screen. Unfortunately for her, she's got a Rumba, presumably to the Aerosmith song from Armagheddon. 3 words: god help her.
Judges' scores: 7, 7, 7, 8 making a total of 29/40 (and an overall of 56/80)
My score: 6 (making my overall total 48/80)
Tim & Natalie - Waltz - "When You Wish Upon A Star"
X Factor advert song from a few years ago (the one with Frankie Cocozza in), that's all I think of when I hear this song. After watching the routine, you just want to say 'awwwwwww'. It was so lovely, so moving and charming. I definitely put a vote Tim's way on the night and I'm glad he stayed, as this was such an improvement on last week. He did seem to be skipping slightly on some of the steps, as if he couldn't quite keep up. I'm not sure if he had gone wrong somewhere and that was his way of trying to correct it. I'd also say that he needs to straighten up a little in his posture, as he did look hunched over throughout the routine - just straighten a fraction and then the top line would be much better. Please be nice to him producers, and give him a slow routine (but not the Rumba) this week.
Judges' scores: 5, 6, 6, 6 making a total of 23/40 (and an overall of 41/80)
My score: 4.5 (making my overall total 32/80)
Sunetra & Brendan - Cha Cha Cha - "Million Dollar Bill"
I just remember Whitney Houston's wardrobe malfunction on X Factor when she was performing this song as a guest, her dress strap had come off if I remember rightly. Anyway, onto the dance. After watching it for a second time, I get the feeling that Sunetra actually forgot a bit of the routine, she was stood still for a bit as if anticipating the next step. She also looked to go wrong a few times as well, and went off-time in trying to get back on track. Sunetra also needs to work on her arm placement, and make sure that she finishes her lines off. It wasn't a bad dance for her, but I don't think she'll be the dark horse that some people had her down as after last week. Another Ballroom for her please!
Judges' scores: 6, 6, 7, 7 making a total of 26/40 (and an overall of 50/80)
My score: 5 (making my overall total 40/80)
Mark & Karen - American Smooth - "I'm Yours"
Bad song choice in my book, it made the lifts feel shoehorned in. Also, I was struggling to tell their base dance - I suspect it was meant to be a Foxtrot, but they were moving a bit too quickly for a normal Foxtrot, so no wonder I was confused! The lifts were great, Mark did really well in the transitions and the actual lifts themselves. I thought they could have had a little more in hold if I'm honest, and I wasn't a fan of the 'cutesy' touches in Karen's choreography, it made the whole dance just a bit too sweet. I liked how the props dept recycled Matt & Aliona's swing from their Viennese Waltz just 4 long years ago *sigh*. Mark performed this well, he just needs to watch his free arm when he's doing spins (by this I mean when he's spinning himself, not the underarm turns he did with Karen as those were nice) as he didn't seem to know what to do with it and it ended up flying away from him. There was a bit of gapping too. By the way wardrobe, what on earth were you thinking of by putting him in a jumper and what looked like skinny jeans?! I'd like to see him have to be serious, so a Paso or Tango please.
Judges' scores: 6, 7, 7, 7 making a total of 27/40 (and an overall of 51/80)
My score: 6.5 (making my overall total 48/80)
Scott & Joanne - Tango - "Stop"
Worst song choice of the century. Really, a Tango to the Spice Girls? You'dve been better off recycling 'I Will Survive' from Jason Donovan's Tango if you wanted to go down the comedy route. Oh dear, I felt so sorry for Scott. He was trying but it just didn't work, not his duckface, nor his hold, nor his feet. Again, I was disappointed by Joanne's choreography, I felt she could have got him to travel the floor a bit more, and always given him something to do rather than have him stand still (the leg kicks being one such moment). To be honest, I couldn't stop staring at the pout she had on, I know the Tango is meant to be moody, but that was just weird. Producers, can you give him a nice song and a nice slow dance next week please? Sadly if the trailer's anything to go by, you'll be giving him a Samba to 'The Little Mermaid'.......
Judges' scores: 4, 5, 6, 5 making a total of 20/40 (and an overall of 36/80)
My score: 2.5 (purely because he was trying,making my overall total 22/80)
Pixie & Trent - Waltz - "Come Away With Me"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Martin & Erin in series 1, John & Kristina in series 6, Harry & Aliona in series 9*
I'm still not a fan of these two, Pixie if you're too busy to train then why did you sign up? It's not going to endear people to you if you keep going on about not having enough time. *rant over* Anyway, crop tops are inappropriate for Ballroom (what are the wardrobe people on this year?) and the bridge has been done so many times now - most notably Audley & Natalie's VW to 'I'm With You' by Avril Lavigne, where the very first line is 'I'm standing on a bridge', I kid you not - that it's not even funny. Some of the choreography was a bit iffy (the swan burrowing underwater before sticking its neck out being one) and repetitive (how many rende de jambes (hope I've spelled that right) do you want?), and I thought some of Pixie's arm lines were a little off. Suffice to say, I don't think she should have got 35, I thought Frankie's Waltz last week was better. Maybe Pixie is the 'overmarked of doom' contestant this year?
Judges' scores: 8, 9, 9, 9 making a total of 35/40 (and an overall of 62/80)
My score: 7.5 (making my overall total 54/80)
Steve & Ola - Cha Cha Cha - "Treasure"
Well it didn't have any pivots but I CALLED THE KNEE SLIDE! Seriously Ola, get some new choreography. Ahem, aside from that, I liked that she gave him a lot of steps to do on his own. Side-by-side can go horribly wrong if the celeb can't keep in sync with the pro, so Steve did well there. His lower half looked good, but he needs to work on his top half, and in particular his arms. He just needs to place them a bit better, and make sure that he finishes off his lines (same as Sunetra). That reminds me, is it just me or does he remind anyone else of Chris Hollins? Just with the gurning alone? It's actually quite scary. I felt Craig's tirade was uncalled for, and just a bit biased. Nice slow Ballroom next week please.
Judges' scores: 3, 6, 6, 6 making a total of 21/40 (and an overall of 47/80)
My score: 5 (making my overall total 46/80)
Frankie & Kevin - Charleston - "Happy Days Theme"
Firstly, poor Kevin trying to choreograph a Charleston to a '50s style' song that's more suited to a Jive/Rock n Roll routine. You'd think the judges would know that so why so much criticism? Have to say though, credit to Frankie for coping with such a fast and content-filled routine. I would have liked a little more on the performance side from her, but I can forgive her from that because of how quick the routine was (has any Charleston been quicker than that? I doubt it personally). I'm not sure what went wrong with the lift at the end, whether it was a mistake on Kevin's part or if Frankie didn't get to the position that she was meant to be in. She did lack a bit of swivel too. I'm still really impressed with them though and they got a difficult dance out of the way early. Maybe something like a Foxtrot or Cha Cha Cha for them next week?
Judges' scores: 7, 7, 8, 8 making a total of 30/40 (and an overall of 60/80)
My score: 8 (making my overall total 64/80)
So here's the judges' overall leaderboard (scores out of 80):
1. Jake & Janette - 63
2. Pixie & Trent - 62
3. Frankie & Kevin - 60
4. Caroline & Pasha - 56
5. Simon & Kristina - 53
6. Mark & Karen - 51
7. Sunetra & Brendan - 50
=8. Thom & Iveta, Alison & Aljaz - 48
10. Steve & Ola - 47
11. Tim & Natalie - 41
12. Jennifer & Tristan - 37
=13. Gregg & Aliona, Scott & Joanne - 36
15. Judy & Anton - 35
And here's my overall leaderboard (keep in mind that I can only do even scores):
=1. Jake & Janette, Frankie & Kevin - 64
3. Pixie & Trent - 54
=4. Simon & Kristina, Alison & Aljaz, Caroline & Pasha, Mark & Karen - 48
8. Steve & Ola - 46
9. Thom & Iveta - 42
10. Sunetra & Brendan - 40
=11. Jennifer & Tristan, Tim & Natalie - 32
13. Judy & Anton - 26
=14. Gregg & Aliona, Scott & Joanne - 22
Dance-off: Gregg & Aliona vs Jennifer & Tristan. That's not a surprising result. Judy was saved due to Anton and being bottom of the leaderboard, Scott has his Radio 1 fanbase, but neither Jennifer or Gregg have much of a fanbase to go on.
Elimination: Gregg & Aliona (unaminous judges' decision). Right decision in my book, Jennifer has more potential, but I do think it's unfair that Gregg was eliminated on 2 'Latin' dances when everyone else had done at least 1 Ballroom. I don't think Aliona should bother coming back next year as she'll just get another duffer (Natalie too actually).
Next week, it's Movie Week, so expect badly themed costumes, songs and dances; yep, so just another normal week of Strictly. Until then,
KEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP READING!
So in this portion of the blog, I'll be covering the second half of the dances from Saturday night. I'll also be giving my verdict on the dance-off and elimination.
Caroline & Pasha - Tango - "Blame"
I wasn't a fan of the song choice, it doesn't really have that Tango beat (see last year's RihannaTango). I think because of that, the routine didn't hold my interest, I found it boring to watch - that's both of Caroline's dances now where I've said that, and that's not a good sign. Caroline's dress was a bit too long and I was waiting for her to get her heel caught, which thankfully she didn't. As for how she did, there were good and bad points. Like with Simon's Tango, I felt she was a bit too fluid (in the hold mainly), not enough staccato for me. She did well on the performance side, but she did lose the aggression when she was out of hold, particularly at the end of the routine. Give her something like a Salsa, with a good song, and hopefully I'll end up transfixed to the screen. Unfortunately for her, she's got a Rumba, presumably to the Aerosmith song from Armagheddon. 3 words: god help her.
Judges' scores: 7, 7, 7, 8 making a total of 29/40 (and an overall of 56/80)
My score: 6 (making my overall total 48/80)
Tim & Natalie - Waltz - "When You Wish Upon A Star"
X Factor advert song from a few years ago (the one with Frankie Cocozza in), that's all I think of when I hear this song. After watching the routine, you just want to say 'awwwwwww'. It was so lovely, so moving and charming. I definitely put a vote Tim's way on the night and I'm glad he stayed, as this was such an improvement on last week. He did seem to be skipping slightly on some of the steps, as if he couldn't quite keep up. I'm not sure if he had gone wrong somewhere and that was his way of trying to correct it. I'd also say that he needs to straighten up a little in his posture, as he did look hunched over throughout the routine - just straighten a fraction and then the top line would be much better. Please be nice to him producers, and give him a slow routine (but not the Rumba) this week.
Judges' scores: 5, 6, 6, 6 making a total of 23/40 (and an overall of 41/80)
My score: 4.5 (making my overall total 32/80)
Sunetra & Brendan - Cha Cha Cha - "Million Dollar Bill"
I just remember Whitney Houston's wardrobe malfunction on X Factor when she was performing this song as a guest, her dress strap had come off if I remember rightly. Anyway, onto the dance. After watching it for a second time, I get the feeling that Sunetra actually forgot a bit of the routine, she was stood still for a bit as if anticipating the next step. She also looked to go wrong a few times as well, and went off-time in trying to get back on track. Sunetra also needs to work on her arm placement, and make sure that she finishes her lines off. It wasn't a bad dance for her, but I don't think she'll be the dark horse that some people had her down as after last week. Another Ballroom for her please!
Judges' scores: 6, 6, 7, 7 making a total of 26/40 (and an overall of 50/80)
My score: 5 (making my overall total 40/80)
Mark & Karen - American Smooth - "I'm Yours"
Bad song choice in my book, it made the lifts feel shoehorned in. Also, I was struggling to tell their base dance - I suspect it was meant to be a Foxtrot, but they were moving a bit too quickly for a normal Foxtrot, so no wonder I was confused! The lifts were great, Mark did really well in the transitions and the actual lifts themselves. I thought they could have had a little more in hold if I'm honest, and I wasn't a fan of the 'cutesy' touches in Karen's choreography, it made the whole dance just a bit too sweet. I liked how the props dept recycled Matt & Aliona's swing from their Viennese Waltz just 4 long years ago *sigh*. Mark performed this well, he just needs to watch his free arm when he's doing spins (by this I mean when he's spinning himself, not the underarm turns he did with Karen as those were nice) as he didn't seem to know what to do with it and it ended up flying away from him. There was a bit of gapping too. By the way wardrobe, what on earth were you thinking of by putting him in a jumper and what looked like skinny jeans?! I'd like to see him have to be serious, so a Paso or Tango please.
Judges' scores: 6, 7, 7, 7 making a total of 27/40 (and an overall of 51/80)
My score: 6.5 (making my overall total 48/80)
Scott & Joanne - Tango - "Stop"
Worst song choice of the century. Really, a Tango to the Spice Girls? You'dve been better off recycling 'I Will Survive' from Jason Donovan's Tango if you wanted to go down the comedy route. Oh dear, I felt so sorry for Scott. He was trying but it just didn't work, not his duckface, nor his hold, nor his feet. Again, I was disappointed by Joanne's choreography, I felt she could have got him to travel the floor a bit more, and always given him something to do rather than have him stand still (the leg kicks being one such moment). To be honest, I couldn't stop staring at the pout she had on, I know the Tango is meant to be moody, but that was just weird. Producers, can you give him a nice song and a nice slow dance next week please? Sadly if the trailer's anything to go by, you'll be giving him a Samba to 'The Little Mermaid'.......
Judges' scores: 4, 5, 6, 5 making a total of 20/40 (and an overall of 36/80)
My score: 2.5 (purely because he was trying,making my overall total 22/80)
Pixie & Trent - Waltz - "Come Away With Me"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Martin & Erin in series 1, John & Kristina in series 6, Harry & Aliona in series 9*
I'm still not a fan of these two, Pixie if you're too busy to train then why did you sign up? It's not going to endear people to you if you keep going on about not having enough time. *rant over* Anyway, crop tops are inappropriate for Ballroom (what are the wardrobe people on this year?) and the bridge has been done so many times now - most notably Audley & Natalie's VW to 'I'm With You' by Avril Lavigne, where the very first line is 'I'm standing on a bridge', I kid you not - that it's not even funny. Some of the choreography was a bit iffy (the swan burrowing underwater before sticking its neck out being one) and repetitive (how many rende de jambes (hope I've spelled that right) do you want?), and I thought some of Pixie's arm lines were a little off. Suffice to say, I don't think she should have got 35, I thought Frankie's Waltz last week was better. Maybe Pixie is the 'overmarked of doom' contestant this year?
Judges' scores: 8, 9, 9, 9 making a total of 35/40 (and an overall of 62/80)
My score: 7.5 (making my overall total 54/80)
Steve & Ola - Cha Cha Cha - "Treasure"
Well it didn't have any pivots but I CALLED THE KNEE SLIDE! Seriously Ola, get some new choreography. Ahem, aside from that, I liked that she gave him a lot of steps to do on his own. Side-by-side can go horribly wrong if the celeb can't keep in sync with the pro, so Steve did well there. His lower half looked good, but he needs to work on his top half, and in particular his arms. He just needs to place them a bit better, and make sure that he finishes off his lines (same as Sunetra). That reminds me, is it just me or does he remind anyone else of Chris Hollins? Just with the gurning alone? It's actually quite scary. I felt Craig's tirade was uncalled for, and just a bit biased. Nice slow Ballroom next week please.
Judges' scores: 3, 6, 6, 6 making a total of 21/40 (and an overall of 47/80)
My score: 5 (making my overall total 46/80)
Frankie & Kevin - Charleston - "Happy Days Theme"
Firstly, poor Kevin trying to choreograph a Charleston to a '50s style' song that's more suited to a Jive/Rock n Roll routine. You'd think the judges would know that so why so much criticism? Have to say though, credit to Frankie for coping with such a fast and content-filled routine. I would have liked a little more on the performance side from her, but I can forgive her from that because of how quick the routine was (has any Charleston been quicker than that? I doubt it personally). I'm not sure what went wrong with the lift at the end, whether it was a mistake on Kevin's part or if Frankie didn't get to the position that she was meant to be in. She did lack a bit of swivel too. I'm still really impressed with them though and they got a difficult dance out of the way early. Maybe something like a Foxtrot or Cha Cha Cha for them next week?
Judges' scores: 7, 7, 8, 8 making a total of 30/40 (and an overall of 60/80)
My score: 8 (making my overall total 64/80)
So here's the judges' overall leaderboard (scores out of 80):
1. Jake & Janette - 63
2. Pixie & Trent - 62
3. Frankie & Kevin - 60
4. Caroline & Pasha - 56
5. Simon & Kristina - 53
6. Mark & Karen - 51
7. Sunetra & Brendan - 50
=8. Thom & Iveta, Alison & Aljaz - 48
10. Steve & Ola - 47
11. Tim & Natalie - 41
12. Jennifer & Tristan - 37
=13. Gregg & Aliona, Scott & Joanne - 36
15. Judy & Anton - 35
And here's my overall leaderboard (keep in mind that I can only do even scores):
=1. Jake & Janette, Frankie & Kevin - 64
3. Pixie & Trent - 54
=4. Simon & Kristina, Alison & Aljaz, Caroline & Pasha, Mark & Karen - 48
8. Steve & Ola - 46
9. Thom & Iveta - 42
10. Sunetra & Brendan - 40
=11. Jennifer & Tristan, Tim & Natalie - 32
13. Judy & Anton - 26
=14. Gregg & Aliona, Scott & Joanne - 22
Dance-off: Gregg & Aliona vs Jennifer & Tristan. That's not a surprising result. Judy was saved due to Anton and being bottom of the leaderboard, Scott has his Radio 1 fanbase, but neither Jennifer or Gregg have much of a fanbase to go on.
Elimination: Gregg & Aliona (unaminous judges' decision). Right decision in my book, Jennifer has more potential, but I do think it's unfair that Gregg was eliminated on 2 'Latin' dances when everyone else had done at least 1 Ballroom. I don't think Aliona should bother coming back next year as she'll just get another duffer (Natalie too actually).
Next week, it's Movie Week, so expect badly themed costumes, songs and dances; yep, so just another normal week of Strictly. Until then,
KEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP READING!
Sunday, 5 October 2014
Strictly Come Dancing 2014: Week 2 (part 1)
Well last week we had some good dances, some 'alright' dances, and some 'what the bloody hell was that?!' dances. Somehow I think we might get that again this time.
Presenter watch: LOVED what Tess was wearing, apart from that there seemed to be a little bulge on the one side, just under the chest (only the one side though), bit weird. Claudia looked nice too, loved the colour on her. Wardrobe dept have clearly responded to Tess' memo after the last 11 series spent being hit and miss in the style stakes. Shame they couldn't be bothered for some of the contestants though......
In this portion of the blog, I'll be reviewing the first 7 dances of last night (so from Thom up to and including Judy), with the remaining 8 to follow hopefully tomorrow morning.
Also, I'll be doing a little count of how many recycled song choices we have during the series. Last week we had 5 in total (Caroline, Jake, Mark, Steve, and Simon) - a little less than I was expecting. BUT in the annual 'week 1 let's make the songs have as tenuous a link to the celeb as possible' competition, there were a fair few contenders:
Tim - "Shop Around" (auctions), Jake - "Toxic" (Max Branning), Judy - "Mull of Kintyre" (Scottish), Scott - "Rock DJ" (radio 1), Mark - "I'm Your Man" ("if you're gonna do it, do it Wright"), Steve - "Born to be Wild" (presented The Really Wild Show), Thom - "You Raise Me Up" (being raised to do a lineout in rugby), Sunetra - "Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor" (plays a doctor on Casualty), Gregg - "Hot and Cold" (food can be hot or cold - yeah I said tenuous).
After that little ramble, let's kick off the reviews!
Thom & Iveta - Salsa - "Hot, Hot, Hot"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - the legendary Mark & Karen (the only Mark & Karen in my book) in series 4*
With what was to come later (spoilers for Jake's routine), why did they have this open the show? It wasn't great and I would have saved it for a bad spot in the running order - suffered from a very bad case of overmarking as a result. To give him his due, Thom was a bit better here than last week. His hip action was good (which is quite remarkable for a male doing the Salsa) and the lifts and tricks were great, particularly the change of the arm when Iveta was doing the underarm turns, as that is pretty difficult to do. He did mess up on another underarm section at the end though, not sure what happened there. Thom needs to do some work on his arms, they were good sometimes but he just threw away the line often. He also needs to curb the gurning, he's not quite in Chris Hollins territory just yet, but he is starting to quietly approach the Patrick Robinson mark. I think he needs a dance like the Tango or Paso Doble, maybe even the Charleston to help him get his personality across better, as I feel he is quite bland and there's not much to him.
Judges' scores: 5, 7, 7, 6 making a total of 25/40 (and an overall of 48/80)
My score: 5.5 (making my overall total 42/80)
Jennifer & Tristan - Waltz - "(You Make Me Feel Like A) Natural Woman"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Nicholas & Nicole in series 4, Alex & James in series 9*
So much better this week from Jennifer. She gave a good performance, and her footwork seemed good for most of the time, the standing spin at the end was lovely. She really needs to focus on her posture, her head position didn't look right and her top line wasn't quite there. She also needs to make sure that she finishes off her arm lines, as there were a couple of instances where she didn't fully extend. There was a bit of gapping during the routine too. I think she needs something like a Tango, which isn't as stiff a hold as for the other Ballroom dances, and if she can't do that then there might not be much hope for her in the Ballroom.
Judges' scores: 4, 5, 5, 5 making a total of 19/40 (and an overall of 37/80)
My score: 4 (making my overall total 32/80)
Simon & Kristina - Tango - "Sing"
Now unlike most people, I do think this is actually a decent song for a Tango. But I really did not like this routine. A bit like the Paso, the man should be strong, masculine, somewhat aggressive, and Simon didn't get that, so his performance suffered as a result. He had an odd expression on his face, and his hold seemed loose, with it completely going to pot on any pivot sections, his hand in Kristina's was shaped very oddly in those bits of the routine. It lacked a bit of staccato and was too fluid for me. Also, unrelated to the dance - Simon, stop sulking and doing your 'stand-up sit-down' routine in the Claudatorium, congratulate your fellow contestants. His attitude is starting to do my head in and I'm beginning to hope he is a shock early exit.
Judges' scores: 5, 7, 7 7 making a total of 26/40 (and an overall of 53/80)
My score: 5.5 (making my overall total 48/80)
Gregg & Aliona - Charleston - "Hey Good Looking"
Now this looked surprisingly decent in training, so I was hoping that on the night Gregg would be able to show us that he can dance. Sadly, his nerves took over again. He had somewhat decent swivel action, but that was about it. He forgot a fair amount of the routine, and just looked very wooden and awkward. I felt a bit sorry for him by the end. The face-plant into the cake wasn't needed really. He seriously needs a Ballroom, where there's more control, more in hold, and less opportunity for Gregg to forget the routine; but I don't think he'll get that far.
Judges' scores: 3, 5, 5, 5 making a total of 18/40 (and an overall of 36/80)
My score: 2 (making my overall total 22/80)
Alison & Aljaz - Foxtrot - "I Just Wanna Make Love To You"
Still loving this pairing, they have such fun together and Alison's enthusiasm is infectious. Dare I say it, I think Aljaz might have a very small crush on her, judging by his theming of their first 2 routines. He seems much happier this year. I could watch this routine all day. Not much in terms of Foxtrot content admittedly, but there was enough for a purist like me to be happy. Love the fun spin put on it, there's a way to do entertaining without going into comedy mode (Anton, take note please) and Aljaz has nailed it. I actually think they were undermarked in comparison to a couple of the others. Okay, so there was some gapping, and the top line wasn't as good as it should be, but I loved the feel of it, so I'm a happy blogger bunny.
Judges' scores: 5, 5, 6, 6 making a total of 22/40 (and an overall of 48/80)
My score: 6 (making my overall total surprisingly 48/80)
Jake & Janette - Salsa - "Mambo No. 5"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Peter & Erin in series 8*
I wasn't expecting much of Jake, considering he was a 40+ male doing a Salsa, but miracles have happened (see Mark Ramprakash). Janette is Cuban by origin and a Salsa specialist, so I was hoping for a good routine from her. WOW, she didn't disappoint there! Lots of content, lots of hip action from Jake. Again he got into the performance right from the word go and just let rip. The tricks were excellent and that last lift was jaw-droppingly brilliant. I was impressed with him last week, but I am now thinking we might actually have our first over 40 Strictly winner right here. Props to Janette, it was a brilliant routine but she needed a fantastic dancer to do it justice, and she's got that in Jake. LOVED IT!
Judges' scores: 8, 9, 9, 9 making a total of 35/40 (and an overall of 63/80)
My score: 9 (making my overall total 64/80)
Judy & Anton - Cha Cha Cha - "She's A Lady"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Jill & Darren in series 2*
I didn't see much of this on the night, had to make an emergency pit stop in the bathroom, so this was my first time seeing it properly. Jeez this was awful. Judy's another one where the nerves seem to overtake her. So much went wrong during the first half of the routine that I'm not even going to list any of it as it would take me all day. She got much better in the second half though. Poor choreography from Anton, but what do we expect from someone who isn't best friends with Latin dancing? Too much time spent faffing around at the beginning, and at the end. Judy needs to work on her arms as she isn't finishing off her lines properly, and apart from that, erm, I'm not sure. I'm struggling to think of a dance that she'll be alright with, as you would think it would be the Waltz. Hmm, I'll get back to you on that one.
Judges' scores: 2, 5, 5, 5 making a total of 17/40 (and an overall of 35/80)
My score: 2 (making my overall total 26/80)
In part 2, I'll be reviewing everyone from Caroline up to and including Frankie. I'm hoping to get the part 2 blog up tomorrow morning, so until then:
KEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP READING!
Presenter watch: LOVED what Tess was wearing, apart from that there seemed to be a little bulge on the one side, just under the chest (only the one side though), bit weird. Claudia looked nice too, loved the colour on her. Wardrobe dept have clearly responded to Tess' memo after the last 11 series spent being hit and miss in the style stakes. Shame they couldn't be bothered for some of the contestants though......
In this portion of the blog, I'll be reviewing the first 7 dances of last night (so from Thom up to and including Judy), with the remaining 8 to follow hopefully tomorrow morning.
Also, I'll be doing a little count of how many recycled song choices we have during the series. Last week we had 5 in total (Caroline, Jake, Mark, Steve, and Simon) - a little less than I was expecting. BUT in the annual 'week 1 let's make the songs have as tenuous a link to the celeb as possible' competition, there were a fair few contenders:
Tim - "Shop Around" (auctions), Jake - "Toxic" (Max Branning), Judy - "Mull of Kintyre" (Scottish), Scott - "Rock DJ" (radio 1), Mark - "I'm Your Man" ("if you're gonna do it, do it Wright"), Steve - "Born to be Wild" (presented The Really Wild Show), Thom - "You Raise Me Up" (being raised to do a lineout in rugby), Sunetra - "Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor" (plays a doctor on Casualty), Gregg - "Hot and Cold" (food can be hot or cold - yeah I said tenuous).
After that little ramble, let's kick off the reviews!
Thom & Iveta - Salsa - "Hot, Hot, Hot"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - the legendary Mark & Karen (the only Mark & Karen in my book) in series 4*
With what was to come later (spoilers for Jake's routine), why did they have this open the show? It wasn't great and I would have saved it for a bad spot in the running order - suffered from a very bad case of overmarking as a result. To give him his due, Thom was a bit better here than last week. His hip action was good (which is quite remarkable for a male doing the Salsa) and the lifts and tricks were great, particularly the change of the arm when Iveta was doing the underarm turns, as that is pretty difficult to do. He did mess up on another underarm section at the end though, not sure what happened there. Thom needs to do some work on his arms, they were good sometimes but he just threw away the line often. He also needs to curb the gurning, he's not quite in Chris Hollins territory just yet, but he is starting to quietly approach the Patrick Robinson mark. I think he needs a dance like the Tango or Paso Doble, maybe even the Charleston to help him get his personality across better, as I feel he is quite bland and there's not much to him.
Judges' scores: 5, 7, 7, 6 making a total of 25/40 (and an overall of 48/80)
My score: 5.5 (making my overall total 42/80)
Jennifer & Tristan - Waltz - "(You Make Me Feel Like A) Natural Woman"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Nicholas & Nicole in series 4, Alex & James in series 9*
So much better this week from Jennifer. She gave a good performance, and her footwork seemed good for most of the time, the standing spin at the end was lovely. She really needs to focus on her posture, her head position didn't look right and her top line wasn't quite there. She also needs to make sure that she finishes off her arm lines, as there were a couple of instances where she didn't fully extend. There was a bit of gapping during the routine too. I think she needs something like a Tango, which isn't as stiff a hold as for the other Ballroom dances, and if she can't do that then there might not be much hope for her in the Ballroom.
Judges' scores: 4, 5, 5, 5 making a total of 19/40 (and an overall of 37/80)
My score: 4 (making my overall total 32/80)
Simon & Kristina - Tango - "Sing"
Now unlike most people, I do think this is actually a decent song for a Tango. But I really did not like this routine. A bit like the Paso, the man should be strong, masculine, somewhat aggressive, and Simon didn't get that, so his performance suffered as a result. He had an odd expression on his face, and his hold seemed loose, with it completely going to pot on any pivot sections, his hand in Kristina's was shaped very oddly in those bits of the routine. It lacked a bit of staccato and was too fluid for me. Also, unrelated to the dance - Simon, stop sulking and doing your 'stand-up sit-down' routine in the Claudatorium, congratulate your fellow contestants. His attitude is starting to do my head in and I'm beginning to hope he is a shock early exit.
Judges' scores: 5, 7, 7 7 making a total of 26/40 (and an overall of 53/80)
My score: 5.5 (making my overall total 48/80)
Gregg & Aliona - Charleston - "Hey Good Looking"
Now this looked surprisingly decent in training, so I was hoping that on the night Gregg would be able to show us that he can dance. Sadly, his nerves took over again. He had somewhat decent swivel action, but that was about it. He forgot a fair amount of the routine, and just looked very wooden and awkward. I felt a bit sorry for him by the end. The face-plant into the cake wasn't needed really. He seriously needs a Ballroom, where there's more control, more in hold, and less opportunity for Gregg to forget the routine; but I don't think he'll get that far.
Judges' scores: 3, 5, 5, 5 making a total of 18/40 (and an overall of 36/80)
My score: 2 (making my overall total 22/80)
Alison & Aljaz - Foxtrot - "I Just Wanna Make Love To You"
Still loving this pairing, they have such fun together and Alison's enthusiasm is infectious. Dare I say it, I think Aljaz might have a very small crush on her, judging by his theming of their first 2 routines. He seems much happier this year. I could watch this routine all day. Not much in terms of Foxtrot content admittedly, but there was enough for a purist like me to be happy. Love the fun spin put on it, there's a way to do entertaining without going into comedy mode (Anton, take note please) and Aljaz has nailed it. I actually think they were undermarked in comparison to a couple of the others. Okay, so there was some gapping, and the top line wasn't as good as it should be, but I loved the feel of it, so I'm a happy blogger bunny.
Judges' scores: 5, 5, 6, 6 making a total of 22/40 (and an overall of 48/80)
My score: 6 (making my overall total surprisingly 48/80)
Jake & Janette - Salsa - "Mambo No. 5"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Peter & Erin in series 8*
I wasn't expecting much of Jake, considering he was a 40+ male doing a Salsa, but miracles have happened (see Mark Ramprakash). Janette is Cuban by origin and a Salsa specialist, so I was hoping for a good routine from her. WOW, she didn't disappoint there! Lots of content, lots of hip action from Jake. Again he got into the performance right from the word go and just let rip. The tricks were excellent and that last lift was jaw-droppingly brilliant. I was impressed with him last week, but I am now thinking we might actually have our first over 40 Strictly winner right here. Props to Janette, it was a brilliant routine but she needed a fantastic dancer to do it justice, and she's got that in Jake. LOVED IT!
Judges' scores: 8, 9, 9, 9 making a total of 35/40 (and an overall of 63/80)
My score: 9 (making my overall total 64/80)
Judy & Anton - Cha Cha Cha - "She's A Lady"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Jill & Darren in series 2*
I didn't see much of this on the night, had to make an emergency pit stop in the bathroom, so this was my first time seeing it properly. Jeez this was awful. Judy's another one where the nerves seem to overtake her. So much went wrong during the first half of the routine that I'm not even going to list any of it as it would take me all day. She got much better in the second half though. Poor choreography from Anton, but what do we expect from someone who isn't best friends with Latin dancing? Too much time spent faffing around at the beginning, and at the end. Judy needs to work on her arms as she isn't finishing off her lines properly, and apart from that, erm, I'm not sure. I'm struggling to think of a dance that she'll be alright with, as you would think it would be the Waltz. Hmm, I'll get back to you on that one.
Judges' scores: 2, 5, 5, 5 making a total of 17/40 (and an overall of 35/80)
My score: 2 (making my overall total 26/80)
In part 2, I'll be reviewing everyone from Caroline up to and including Frankie. I'm hoping to get the part 2 blog up tomorrow morning, so until then:
KEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP READING!
Monday, 29 September 2014
Strictly Come Dancing 2014: Week 1 (part 2)
So it was Saturday night, alright for fighting as Elton John would tell you. The only fighting going on here was to see if anyone could get a lower score than Scott Mills (short answer: no).
As a recap: Mark, Gregg and Alison were dancing the Cha Cha Cha, Simon and Jennifer the Jive, Steve and Sunetra the Tango, and Frankie and Thom the Waltz.
Tess and Claude: MUCH BETTER! We got Claudia back, and boy did they look the better for it. It's fine to experiment with colour Claude but that pink dress was too bright. Tess has managed to get it right probably more times now than she did for the entirety of the last series - that should tell you something.
Ooh opening pro dance! I liked the effects they did with the screen, it took me a little while to figure out that the screen was being used so they did a good job there. Was that the Glee version of 'Pompeii'? It sounded like it to me. Saw the brother and sister from Grimsby dancing together for a small section of the routine, and I was trying to work out who Natalie's pro partner is. I think it was Trent but we hardly saw her so I'm not sure.
Onto the dancing!
Mark & Karen - Cha Cha Cha - "I'm Your Man"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Richard & Lilia in series 7*
This song got ruined for me when Shane Richie decided to cover it for Children in Need oh so many years ago (think it was 2003 or something like that), so like with Judy & Anton, I was just watching Mark & Karen. I can't really take Mark seriously - he's so built up top but then he has spindly little legs! Liked the choreography from Karen, Mark already has the 'Nicky Byrne one hand on hip at nearly all times' move down pat. He's actually much better than I thought he would be: his footwork looked pretty good for the most part (think he set off on the wrong foot at one point though when he was in the bottom corner, or had a bit of hesitation there), he had some hip action, and it's only really his arms that he needs to sort out. They were a bit fly-away and he probably needs to extend them through a bit more. Oh yeah, the little tricks he did? Not needed, c'mon Mark you've shown some promise, save those for the Charleston or Showdance should you get that far. Because of his odd build, he might have some struggles with the hold for Ballroom (Steve also has this issue), so I'll be interested in seeing what Karen can do with that.
Judges' scores: 5, 7, 6, 6 making a total of 24/40
My score: 5.5
Alison & Aljaz - Cha Cha Cha - "I'm Every Woman"
Now this I thought should have been the opener. Alison is my local celeb (so now you all have an idea of where I'm from) and I've always liked her, she's on the right side of 'loud and bubbly'. Having seen her training vid, she has a lot of rhythm so the Cha Cha Cha is the perfect dance for her to start with. I do love this partnership, Aljaz looks to be having a lot of fun with her. Onto the dance itself - I'm really impressed. Alison looked to have the footwork down, and her arms were quite good for the most part, only occasionally going fly-away. The choreography was great, just the right amount of story and they were both enjoying it, which is great to see. Alison just needs to make sure that she doesn't get too 'in the moment', as there were a couple of instances where she lost it for a beat or two as she was enjoying herself that much. Ballroom should be intriguing to watch. She might be a dark horse.
Judges' scores: 6, 6, 7, 7 making a total of 26/40
My score: 6 (a few more mistakes compared to Caroline but I preferred the choreography)
Steve & Ola - Tango - "Born to be Wild"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Ali & Brian in series 7*
I totally called it that Steve would be dancing to this at some point. Does he remind anyone else of Chris Hollins or is it just me? Knowing Ola's choreography, I'm just waiting for the pivots to get their weekly outing. YEP, I SEE PIVOTS!!!! Ola also managed to get a move from the Paso that she did with Ashley last year (the cowboy one) into this routine. Hmm, is she struggling that much for ideas? I felt Jake got the hold a bit better than Steve did, but I think it's down to Steve's build - he was hunched over for a fair amount of the routine. He got into the character well, his arms were good in the non-hold sections, he maintained body contact, and he seemed to have decent footwork. Steve is probably the surprise for me so far. He's got the Cha Cha Cha next week - I'm calling it now - STARFISH WILL BE BACK! AND A KNEE SLIDE!
Judges' scores: 6, 6, 7, 7 making a total of 26/40
My score: 6.5
Jenny & Tristan - Jive - "Happy"
I'm fed up of this song by now, make it stop! I felt Tristan over-danced for some parts, making Jenny look a lot worse than she was. She might not have got the technique (she needs to point her feet when doing the kicks for example), she might not have had much energy, but she was able to keep up with him all the way through. Her timing was pretty much spot-on, apart from one little bit at the very end when she seemed to stand still for a beat or two, as if she'd forgotten her step. I think Tristan's choreography could have been a bit better - I wouldn't have put her on the table for one (making her feet more noticeable), and I wouldn't have had so many side-by-side sections, she needed a bit more 'in-hold' I think. Waltz this week should be a lot better for her, she might struggle with the hold, but I think she'll be better there.
Judges' scores: 3, 5, 5, 5 making a total of 18/40
My score: 4
Thom & Iveta - Waltz - "You Raise Me Up"
I can't stand this song either, having had to suffer through it for months when Westlife released it. Thom is a bit bland, and I don't really understand the attractiveness, he looked better when he was playing rugby imo. I loved Iveta with Mark last year so I was hoping for a good dance for her. Thom had a bit of a rictus grin on all the way through, and I can see why the judges said the routine was 'careful'. It was very well placed, his lines were drawn out and done well, but it wasn't that engaging to watch. He needed to draw his shoulders back a bit more as he looked hunched over at points, and he also needed to have better body contact with Iveta. A cautious start, he might need to be helped with the performance side (go and see Alison would be my tip). He's got Salsa this week, and I am practicing my 'struggling not to laugh' face in anticipation of his awkwardness.
Judges' scores: 5, 6, 6, 6 making a total of 23/40
My score: 5
Sunetra & Brendan - Tango - "Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor)"
Good song choice, one I haven't heard of before. Predictable start to the routine, but liked the easy way to get out of the surgical gowns. She seemed to have good footwork, but I would have liked to have seen a slightly stronger hold from her. Her head also needed to be a bit more tilted to the left, it was too upright during the routine. I think she didn't really get into the performance element of the Tango either, I wanted to see a bit more from her in that respect. Sunetra has the Cha Cha Cha this week, so she needs to work on the performance side for definite. Not a bad start from her though, and I get the feeling that Latin might be more her thing.
Judges' scores: 5, 6, 6, 7 making a total of 24/40
My score: 5
Gregg & Aliona - Cha Cha Cha - "Hot & Cold"
Two words: Poor Aliona. We all know his reputation from Twitter/media etc. I have to say though, I think I laughed at this even more than I did Scott's on Friday. He was trying, but it just wasn't there. That, and how much of the choreography was dedicated to side-by-side so Aliona wasn't anywhere near him. Odd arrangement of the song though, seemed a bit slower compared to the original. His arms were awful, he struggled with the footwork, jeez I don't know if I can say anything was good, Oh yes, Aliona was good, that's it. He just looks odd without his glasses, like a weird version of Richard O'Brien from The Crystal Maze. Hopefully he gets a nice Ballroom to go out on, something like a Foxtrot maybe - I say that as I'm pretty sure he'll be out first.
Judges' scores: 3, 5, 5, 5 making a total of 18/40
My score: 3.5
Frankie & Kevin - Waltz - "Someone Like You"
Adele should sue for what they did to her song, just saying. That aside, this was so beautiful, so elegant, they should both be proud of what they did here. Her arms were exquisite, her footwork was excellent, she even got in the patented 'Natalie head twirl' (copyrighted by Messrs Lowe and Gumede). I actually felt she was undermarked, this was just as good as Abbey's last year and yet she got less. I still find Frankie a little bland at the moment, but I love Kevin and I think a good party Latin might be all she needs to win over everyone. She has the Charleston this week, and I thought Kevin's with Susanna last year was quite underrated, so she might do well here. Give her the kind of routine that Abbey had for hers, and she'll be in business.
Judges' scores: 7, 7, 8, 8 making a total of 30/40
My score: 8
Simon & Kristina - Jive - "Good Golly Miss Molly"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Natalie & Vincent in series 7*
I think everyone knows my warm and loving affection for Kristina (not). Sadly, Simon seems very cocky and I get the feeling they'll be unbearable this year in the way that Ricky & Natalie were on series 7. I did quite like Kristina's choreography for this Jive though. Lots of kicks and flicks, with a Rock n Roll edge. Simon was pretty good, but a little flat-footed in places, he needed to point his feet on the kicks and flicks (I do think the shoes might have been a hindrance there). I also thought he was a bit slow in some sections, but that might have been choreographed slowness. He was decent on the Christmas Special he did with Katya, so I'm not surprised he did well for this first routine. I get the feeling he'll be good at Ballroom as well, but might struggle slightly with the performance side as I think he did here.
Judges' scores: 6, 7, 7, 7 making a total of 27/40
My score: 6.5
Judges' overall leaderboard:
1. Frankie & Kevin - 30
2. Jake & Janette - 28
=3. Caroline & Pasha, Pixie & Trent, Simon & Kristina - 27
=6. Alison & Aljaz, Steve & Ola - 26
=8. Mark & Karen, Sunetra & Brendan - 24
10. Thom & Iveta - 23
=11. Tim & Natalie, Judy & Anton, Jennifer & Tristan, Gregg & Aliona - 18
15. Scott & Joanne - 16
My overall leaderboard (marks multiplied by 4):
1. Frankie & Kevin - 32
2. Jake & Janette - 28
=3. Steve & Ola, Simon & Kristina - 26
=5. Caroline & Pasha, Pixie & Trent, Alison & Aljaz - 24
8. Mark & Karen - 22
=9. Thom & Iveta, Sunetra & Brendan - 20
11. Judy & Anton - 18
12. Jenny & Tristan - 16
=13. Tim & Natalie, Gregg & Aliona - 14
15. Scott & Joanne - 12
Join me next time, when I'll be dissecting the week 2 dances. But until then,
KEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP READING!
As a recap: Mark, Gregg and Alison were dancing the Cha Cha Cha, Simon and Jennifer the Jive, Steve and Sunetra the Tango, and Frankie and Thom the Waltz.
Tess and Claude: MUCH BETTER! We got Claudia back, and boy did they look the better for it. It's fine to experiment with colour Claude but that pink dress was too bright. Tess has managed to get it right probably more times now than she did for the entirety of the last series - that should tell you something.
Ooh opening pro dance! I liked the effects they did with the screen, it took me a little while to figure out that the screen was being used so they did a good job there. Was that the Glee version of 'Pompeii'? It sounded like it to me. Saw the brother and sister from Grimsby dancing together for a small section of the routine, and I was trying to work out who Natalie's pro partner is. I think it was Trent but we hardly saw her so I'm not sure.
Onto the dancing!
Mark & Karen - Cha Cha Cha - "I'm Your Man"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Richard & Lilia in series 7*
This song got ruined for me when Shane Richie decided to cover it for Children in Need oh so many years ago (think it was 2003 or something like that), so like with Judy & Anton, I was just watching Mark & Karen. I can't really take Mark seriously - he's so built up top but then he has spindly little legs! Liked the choreography from Karen, Mark already has the 'Nicky Byrne one hand on hip at nearly all times' move down pat. He's actually much better than I thought he would be: his footwork looked pretty good for the most part (think he set off on the wrong foot at one point though when he was in the bottom corner, or had a bit of hesitation there), he had some hip action, and it's only really his arms that he needs to sort out. They were a bit fly-away and he probably needs to extend them through a bit more. Oh yeah, the little tricks he did? Not needed, c'mon Mark you've shown some promise, save those for the Charleston or Showdance should you get that far. Because of his odd build, he might have some struggles with the hold for Ballroom (Steve also has this issue), so I'll be interested in seeing what Karen can do with that.
Judges' scores: 5, 7, 6, 6 making a total of 24/40
My score: 5.5
Alison & Aljaz - Cha Cha Cha - "I'm Every Woman"
Now this I thought should have been the opener. Alison is my local celeb (so now you all have an idea of where I'm from) and I've always liked her, she's on the right side of 'loud and bubbly'. Having seen her training vid, she has a lot of rhythm so the Cha Cha Cha is the perfect dance for her to start with. I do love this partnership, Aljaz looks to be having a lot of fun with her. Onto the dance itself - I'm really impressed. Alison looked to have the footwork down, and her arms were quite good for the most part, only occasionally going fly-away. The choreography was great, just the right amount of story and they were both enjoying it, which is great to see. Alison just needs to make sure that she doesn't get too 'in the moment', as there were a couple of instances where she lost it for a beat or two as she was enjoying herself that much. Ballroom should be intriguing to watch. She might be a dark horse.
Judges' scores: 6, 6, 7, 7 making a total of 26/40
My score: 6 (a few more mistakes compared to Caroline but I preferred the choreography)
Steve & Ola - Tango - "Born to be Wild"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Ali & Brian in series 7*
I totally called it that Steve would be dancing to this at some point. Does he remind anyone else of Chris Hollins or is it just me? Knowing Ola's choreography, I'm just waiting for the pivots to get their weekly outing. YEP, I SEE PIVOTS!!!! Ola also managed to get a move from the Paso that she did with Ashley last year (the cowboy one) into this routine. Hmm, is she struggling that much for ideas? I felt Jake got the hold a bit better than Steve did, but I think it's down to Steve's build - he was hunched over for a fair amount of the routine. He got into the character well, his arms were good in the non-hold sections, he maintained body contact, and he seemed to have decent footwork. Steve is probably the surprise for me so far. He's got the Cha Cha Cha next week - I'm calling it now - STARFISH WILL BE BACK! AND A KNEE SLIDE!
Judges' scores: 6, 6, 7, 7 making a total of 26/40
My score: 6.5
Jenny & Tristan - Jive - "Happy"
I'm fed up of this song by now, make it stop! I felt Tristan over-danced for some parts, making Jenny look a lot worse than she was. She might not have got the technique (she needs to point her feet when doing the kicks for example), she might not have had much energy, but she was able to keep up with him all the way through. Her timing was pretty much spot-on, apart from one little bit at the very end when she seemed to stand still for a beat or two, as if she'd forgotten her step. I think Tristan's choreography could have been a bit better - I wouldn't have put her on the table for one (making her feet more noticeable), and I wouldn't have had so many side-by-side sections, she needed a bit more 'in-hold' I think. Waltz this week should be a lot better for her, she might struggle with the hold, but I think she'll be better there.
Judges' scores: 3, 5, 5, 5 making a total of 18/40
My score: 4
Thom & Iveta - Waltz - "You Raise Me Up"
I can't stand this song either, having had to suffer through it for months when Westlife released it. Thom is a bit bland, and I don't really understand the attractiveness, he looked better when he was playing rugby imo. I loved Iveta with Mark last year so I was hoping for a good dance for her. Thom had a bit of a rictus grin on all the way through, and I can see why the judges said the routine was 'careful'. It was very well placed, his lines were drawn out and done well, but it wasn't that engaging to watch. He needed to draw his shoulders back a bit more as he looked hunched over at points, and he also needed to have better body contact with Iveta. A cautious start, he might need to be helped with the performance side (go and see Alison would be my tip). He's got Salsa this week, and I am practicing my 'struggling not to laugh' face in anticipation of his awkwardness.
Judges' scores: 5, 6, 6, 6 making a total of 23/40
My score: 5
Sunetra & Brendan - Tango - "Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor)"
Good song choice, one I haven't heard of before. Predictable start to the routine, but liked the easy way to get out of the surgical gowns. She seemed to have good footwork, but I would have liked to have seen a slightly stronger hold from her. Her head also needed to be a bit more tilted to the left, it was too upright during the routine. I think she didn't really get into the performance element of the Tango either, I wanted to see a bit more from her in that respect. Sunetra has the Cha Cha Cha this week, so she needs to work on the performance side for definite. Not a bad start from her though, and I get the feeling that Latin might be more her thing.
Judges' scores: 5, 6, 6, 7 making a total of 24/40
My score: 5
Gregg & Aliona - Cha Cha Cha - "Hot & Cold"
Two words: Poor Aliona. We all know his reputation from Twitter/media etc. I have to say though, I think I laughed at this even more than I did Scott's on Friday. He was trying, but it just wasn't there. That, and how much of the choreography was dedicated to side-by-side so Aliona wasn't anywhere near him. Odd arrangement of the song though, seemed a bit slower compared to the original. His arms were awful, he struggled with the footwork, jeez I don't know if I can say anything was good, Oh yes, Aliona was good, that's it. He just looks odd without his glasses, like a weird version of Richard O'Brien from The Crystal Maze. Hopefully he gets a nice Ballroom to go out on, something like a Foxtrot maybe - I say that as I'm pretty sure he'll be out first.
Judges' scores: 3, 5, 5, 5 making a total of 18/40
My score: 3.5
Frankie & Kevin - Waltz - "Someone Like You"
Adele should sue for what they did to her song, just saying. That aside, this was so beautiful, so elegant, they should both be proud of what they did here. Her arms were exquisite, her footwork was excellent, she even got in the patented 'Natalie head twirl' (copyrighted by Messrs Lowe and Gumede). I actually felt she was undermarked, this was just as good as Abbey's last year and yet she got less. I still find Frankie a little bland at the moment, but I love Kevin and I think a good party Latin might be all she needs to win over everyone. She has the Charleston this week, and I thought Kevin's with Susanna last year was quite underrated, so she might do well here. Give her the kind of routine that Abbey had for hers, and she'll be in business.
Judges' scores: 7, 7, 8, 8 making a total of 30/40
My score: 8
Simon & Kristina - Jive - "Good Golly Miss Molly"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Natalie & Vincent in series 7*
I think everyone knows my warm and loving affection for Kristina (not). Sadly, Simon seems very cocky and I get the feeling they'll be unbearable this year in the way that Ricky & Natalie were on series 7. I did quite like Kristina's choreography for this Jive though. Lots of kicks and flicks, with a Rock n Roll edge. Simon was pretty good, but a little flat-footed in places, he needed to point his feet on the kicks and flicks (I do think the shoes might have been a hindrance there). I also thought he was a bit slow in some sections, but that might have been choreographed slowness. He was decent on the Christmas Special he did with Katya, so I'm not surprised he did well for this first routine. I get the feeling he'll be good at Ballroom as well, but might struggle slightly with the performance side as I think he did here.
Judges' scores: 6, 7, 7, 7 making a total of 27/40
My score: 6.5
Judges' overall leaderboard:
1. Frankie & Kevin - 30
2. Jake & Janette - 28
=3. Caroline & Pasha, Pixie & Trent, Simon & Kristina - 27
=6. Alison & Aljaz, Steve & Ola - 26
=8. Mark & Karen, Sunetra & Brendan - 24
10. Thom & Iveta - 23
=11. Tim & Natalie, Judy & Anton, Jennifer & Tristan, Gregg & Aliona - 18
15. Scott & Joanne - 16
My overall leaderboard (marks multiplied by 4):
1. Frankie & Kevin - 32
2. Jake & Janette - 28
=3. Steve & Ola, Simon & Kristina - 26
=5. Caroline & Pasha, Pixie & Trent, Alison & Aljaz - 24
8. Mark & Karen - 22
=9. Thom & Iveta, Sunetra & Brendan - 20
11. Judy & Anton - 18
12. Jenny & Tristan - 16
=13. Tim & Natalie, Gregg & Aliona - 14
15. Scott & Joanne - 12
Join me next time, when I'll be dissecting the week 2 dances. But until then,
KEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP READING!
Saturday, 27 September 2014
Strictly Come Dancing 2014: Week 1 (part 1)
I'm baaaaack! After going AWOL towards the end of the series last year (due to simply being extremely busy in the run up to Christmas), I'm making a (hopefully triumphant) return to blogging the show. I'm aiming to post the blog as soon as I can after the show has aired, but because I have work 3 days a week, it will be up on either Sundays, Mondays or Fridays.
So the live shows have now kicked off, with Tess & Claude at the helm. Tess looked quite nice last night in her jumpsuit (I think that's what it's called, I'm not really a follower of fashion) whilst Claudia, well, that pink dress did not suit her whatsoever and she needs to get her fringe back as she looked old.
It was Friday night and the first 6 couples kicked off the series - Caroline, Tim and Scott with the Cha Cha Cha, Pixie with the Jive, Jake with the Tango and Judy with the Waltz. I was most looking forward to seeing Jake and Scott after watching the training videos, but I was hoping that I'd warm to the other couples and that they would all produce decent if not great performances.
Caroline & Pasha - Cha Cha Cha - "Can You Feel It?"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Ray & Camilla in series 4*
So it was down to former Xtra Factor host and Harry Styles' ex Caroline Flack to open the show. She actually won a Strictly-style show called 'Dancing on Wheels' a few years ago, with Ola as one of the judges so I had a feeling that she'd be one of the better ones. It was a bit of a struggle to watch this back (via the Strictly website) as the camera work was quite blurry. I wasn't a fan of her dress, yes it allowed for movement but it disguised the hip action. As for the dance, she was great but I found it boring to watch. It might be down to the choreography, but it just didn't grab me and hold my interest in the way that the opening number should. Caroline went a bit wrong in the middle (I think she forgot a step or two), the 'clock' move was messy and not needed, and her arms were 'fly away' sometimes, but it was a very good first routine and I think she has real potential.
Judges' scores: 6, 7, 7, 7 making a total of 27/40
My score: 6
Tim & Natalie - Cha Cha Cha - "Shop Around"
And so the 'make the song have a tenuous link to the celeb' theme has risen again. I love this pairing and I think they'll have fun, although maybe don't expect good dancing from them. The opening gambit was before the music so Len's customary 'faffing abaht' comment wasn't required. Okay, so not much was good in terms of technique, but there was a lot of Cha Cha content in there and you could tell he was trying. Once he gets a Ballroom out of the way then we can properly judge. I reckon a lot of viewers will fall in love with them, and Natalie will cement her status as the most popular female pro.
Judges' scores: 3, 5, 5, 5 making a total of 18/40
My score: 3.5
Jake & Janette - Tango - "Toxic"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Chris & Hanna in series 1, Gavin & Katya in series 8*
I was a bit worried about this dance due to the song choice, but I think they went for somewhere between the original and the Glee version. I've always liked Jake from seeing him in EastEnders (and he was also in a science video that I had to watch in school, back when he had hair. He hasn't changed much since then), and I'm wondering what his 'Arse Appreciation Society' on Digital Spy are going to make of him. I'm not a fan of Janette and thought her choreography last series was awful, so I'm crossing my fingers that she'll pull it back this year. She did a lot better with this dance, but I feel she put in a bit too much story, Jake could have handled more choreography in my opinion. As for the man himself, he was essentially Max Branning for the routine and it worked - his footwork and staccato were great and he really got into the performance. He wasn't as masculine as I was expecting though, he had such a strong hold that it looked a little robotic. I want to watch him do a Latin though to see if it's stiffness on his part or if it was just a really strong hold he had. I'm impressed and I'll definitely be watching out for them.
Judges' scores: all 7s making a total of 28/40
My score: 7
Judy & Anton - Waltz - "Mull of Kintyre"
I seriously can't stand this song, so I was focused on watching them during the routine. From what I'd seen of her, Judy seemed nice and I'm looking forward to watching how she'd get her personality across in a Latin. Scottish theme was afoot - this would have been so awkward had Scotland voted for independence wouldn't it? I wasn't too excited after watching it for the first time, but after viewing it again, it was actually a lot better than previously thought. I didn't like the beginning, but once they got into hold when the bagpipes started, it was much better. Judy seemed to have got the footwork, and although her frame could use some work, she was quite decent. She did go wrong a couple of times - I think she got caught off-balance and isn't quite used to being in high heels yet, so hopefully now she's got her first dance out of the way she can work on that. I think she might just get to the halfway point, there's some promise there.
Judges' scores: 3, 4, 6, 5 making a total of 18/40
My score: 4.5 (about the right score from the judges, but I would have had her higher than Tim)
Scott & Joanne - Cha Cha Cha - "Rock DJ"
This song brings back memories for me (I had to do a freestyle dance to this back when I was younger, good god the outfit!) and funnily enough, Scott's routine was similar in some ways to mine. Not much Cha Cha in there, it was mostly Freestyle if I'm honest, bit disappointed in Joanne in that respect. Still, it wasn't quite as camp as Tim's, and I never thought I would say that! Again he was trying, but it just didn't look good. I do wonder how he would fare with a Ballroom routine, he might be better there where it's more controlled and you don't have to do as many different steps with your legs. I felt the floor spin and the slide at the end weren't really needed, but the dance was really entertaining so props to them both there.
Judges' scores: 2, 4, 5, 5 making a total of 16/40
My score: 3 (as bad as Tim but less content)
Pixie & Trent - Jive - "Shake it Off"
Not a fan of Pixie or the song so I wasn't looking forward to this routine. A lot of people had Pixie as a favourite so I was waiting to see what she could produce. I was a bit underwhelmed actually. She had the technique down but she was lacking a bit of energy, and unlike Kevin (who was guilty of this a lot last year) I don't think Trent was over-dancing either. She went out of synch in the side-by-side kicks and flicks section and I think she got flustered by that a little and missed a couple of steps. She also seemed to mess up slightly during the armography section, just a bit of hesitation there. Compared to Susanna's and Patrick's Jives at this stage last year, which were full of dynamism and energy, this one just didn't wow. Hopefully with a Ballroom she'll look much better and Trent could create something great for her.
Judges' scores: 7, 6, 7, 7 making a total of 27/40
My score: 6
Judges' Leaderboard:
1. Jake & Janettte - 28
=2. Caroline & Pasha - 27
=2. Pixie & Trent - 27
=4. Tim & Natalie - 18
=4. Judy & Anton - 18
6. Scott & Joanne - 16
My Leaderboard (marks multiplied by 4 for direct comparison):
1. Jake & Janette - 28
=2. Caroline & Pasha - 24
=2. Pixie & Trent - 24
4. Judy & Anton - 18
5. Tim & Natalie - 14
6. Scott & Joanne - 12
So onto Saturday night, and this is how the dancers line up:
Alison, Gregg, and Mark are doing the Cha Cha Cha, Simon and Jennifer are Jiving, Sunetra and Steve will be dancing the Tango, and Frankie and Thom will be Waltzing.
I'm looking forward to Alison as she's my local celeb and she looks to have a lot of rhythm. I'm also interested in seeing how Frankie gets on - she looked good and she's with one of my favourite pros in the lovely KFG.
I'll be back sometime tomorrow with the review of Saturday's proceedings, but until then:
KEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP READING!
So the live shows have now kicked off, with Tess & Claude at the helm. Tess looked quite nice last night in her jumpsuit (I think that's what it's called, I'm not really a follower of fashion) whilst Claudia, well, that pink dress did not suit her whatsoever and she needs to get her fringe back as she looked old.
It was Friday night and the first 6 couples kicked off the series - Caroline, Tim and Scott with the Cha Cha Cha, Pixie with the Jive, Jake with the Tango and Judy with the Waltz. I was most looking forward to seeing Jake and Scott after watching the training videos, but I was hoping that I'd warm to the other couples and that they would all produce decent if not great performances.
Caroline & Pasha - Cha Cha Cha - "Can You Feel It?"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Ray & Camilla in series 4*
So it was down to former Xtra Factor host and Harry Styles' ex Caroline Flack to open the show. She actually won a Strictly-style show called 'Dancing on Wheels' a few years ago, with Ola as one of the judges so I had a feeling that she'd be one of the better ones. It was a bit of a struggle to watch this back (via the Strictly website) as the camera work was quite blurry. I wasn't a fan of her dress, yes it allowed for movement but it disguised the hip action. As for the dance, she was great but I found it boring to watch. It might be down to the choreography, but it just didn't grab me and hold my interest in the way that the opening number should. Caroline went a bit wrong in the middle (I think she forgot a step or two), the 'clock' move was messy and not needed, and her arms were 'fly away' sometimes, but it was a very good first routine and I think she has real potential.
Judges' scores: 6, 7, 7, 7 making a total of 27/40
My score: 6
Tim & Natalie - Cha Cha Cha - "Shop Around"
And so the 'make the song have a tenuous link to the celeb' theme has risen again. I love this pairing and I think they'll have fun, although maybe don't expect good dancing from them. The opening gambit was before the music so Len's customary 'faffing abaht' comment wasn't required. Okay, so not much was good in terms of technique, but there was a lot of Cha Cha content in there and you could tell he was trying. Once he gets a Ballroom out of the way then we can properly judge. I reckon a lot of viewers will fall in love with them, and Natalie will cement her status as the most popular female pro.
Judges' scores: 3, 5, 5, 5 making a total of 18/40
My score: 3.5
Jake & Janette - Tango - "Toxic"
*RECYCLED SONG ALERT - Chris & Hanna in series 1, Gavin & Katya in series 8*
I was a bit worried about this dance due to the song choice, but I think they went for somewhere between the original and the Glee version. I've always liked Jake from seeing him in EastEnders (and he was also in a science video that I had to watch in school, back when he had hair. He hasn't changed much since then), and I'm wondering what his 'Arse Appreciation Society' on Digital Spy are going to make of him. I'm not a fan of Janette and thought her choreography last series was awful, so I'm crossing my fingers that she'll pull it back this year. She did a lot better with this dance, but I feel she put in a bit too much story, Jake could have handled more choreography in my opinion. As for the man himself, he was essentially Max Branning for the routine and it worked - his footwork and staccato were great and he really got into the performance. He wasn't as masculine as I was expecting though, he had such a strong hold that it looked a little robotic. I want to watch him do a Latin though to see if it's stiffness on his part or if it was just a really strong hold he had. I'm impressed and I'll definitely be watching out for them.
Judges' scores: all 7s making a total of 28/40
My score: 7
Judy & Anton - Waltz - "Mull of Kintyre"
I seriously can't stand this song, so I was focused on watching them during the routine. From what I'd seen of her, Judy seemed nice and I'm looking forward to watching how she'd get her personality across in a Latin. Scottish theme was afoot - this would have been so awkward had Scotland voted for independence wouldn't it? I wasn't too excited after watching it for the first time, but after viewing it again, it was actually a lot better than previously thought. I didn't like the beginning, but once they got into hold when the bagpipes started, it was much better. Judy seemed to have got the footwork, and although her frame could use some work, she was quite decent. She did go wrong a couple of times - I think she got caught off-balance and isn't quite used to being in high heels yet, so hopefully now she's got her first dance out of the way she can work on that. I think she might just get to the halfway point, there's some promise there.
Judges' scores: 3, 4, 6, 5 making a total of 18/40
My score: 4.5 (about the right score from the judges, but I would have had her higher than Tim)
Scott & Joanne - Cha Cha Cha - "Rock DJ"
This song brings back memories for me (I had to do a freestyle dance to this back when I was younger, good god the outfit!) and funnily enough, Scott's routine was similar in some ways to mine. Not much Cha Cha in there, it was mostly Freestyle if I'm honest, bit disappointed in Joanne in that respect. Still, it wasn't quite as camp as Tim's, and I never thought I would say that! Again he was trying, but it just didn't look good. I do wonder how he would fare with a Ballroom routine, he might be better there where it's more controlled and you don't have to do as many different steps with your legs. I felt the floor spin and the slide at the end weren't really needed, but the dance was really entertaining so props to them both there.
Judges' scores: 2, 4, 5, 5 making a total of 16/40
My score: 3 (as bad as Tim but less content)
Pixie & Trent - Jive - "Shake it Off"
Not a fan of Pixie or the song so I wasn't looking forward to this routine. A lot of people had Pixie as a favourite so I was waiting to see what she could produce. I was a bit underwhelmed actually. She had the technique down but she was lacking a bit of energy, and unlike Kevin (who was guilty of this a lot last year) I don't think Trent was over-dancing either. She went out of synch in the side-by-side kicks and flicks section and I think she got flustered by that a little and missed a couple of steps. She also seemed to mess up slightly during the armography section, just a bit of hesitation there. Compared to Susanna's and Patrick's Jives at this stage last year, which were full of dynamism and energy, this one just didn't wow. Hopefully with a Ballroom she'll look much better and Trent could create something great for her.
Judges' scores: 7, 6, 7, 7 making a total of 27/40
My score: 6
Judges' Leaderboard:
1. Jake & Janettte - 28
=2. Caroline & Pasha - 27
=2. Pixie & Trent - 27
=4. Tim & Natalie - 18
=4. Judy & Anton - 18
6. Scott & Joanne - 16
My Leaderboard (marks multiplied by 4 for direct comparison):
1. Jake & Janette - 28
=2. Caroline & Pasha - 24
=2. Pixie & Trent - 24
4. Judy & Anton - 18
5. Tim & Natalie - 14
6. Scott & Joanne - 12
So onto Saturday night, and this is how the dancers line up:
Alison, Gregg, and Mark are doing the Cha Cha Cha, Simon and Jennifer are Jiving, Sunetra and Steve will be dancing the Tango, and Frankie and Thom will be Waltzing.
I'm looking forward to Alison as she's my local celeb and she looks to have a lot of rhythm. I'm also interested in seeing how Frankie gets on - she looked good and she's with one of my favourite pros in the lovely KFG.
I'll be back sometime tomorrow with the review of Saturday's proceedings, but until then:
KEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP READING!
Thursday, 5 December 2013
SCD 2013: Week 10
It's Thursday and I'm back with this week's blog update.
As a little recap - last time, the judges didn't like the way that Ben & Kristina worked it, and they lost out to Mark & Iveta in the dance-off.
This week, it was all about the Musicals. So like practically every other week we get some dodgy songs, dodgy outfits and dodgy choreography. Nothing's changed there.
Patrick & Anya - Charleston - "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang"
Wow, now that was brilliant. The only criticism from me is that the 'lobster claw' lift (the very last one) looked a bit messy, but that's it. Patrick managed to give us the performance without going OTT and down the gurning route (Natalie, Susanna, please take note), and his technique was pretty good too. Ok, so there was a bit of faffing with the flying car but come on, of course they were going to do that with this song. Patrick has the Rumba this weekend, to 'If I Was Your Man' by Bruno Mars. I'm a bit worried as we haven't really seen the romantic side of Patrick so far (there was a bit in his VW, granted), and I don't know whether he's going to quite get 'into' it like Ashley did.
Judges' score: 38/40 (8, 10, 10, 10)
My score: 9 (just the one mistake with the lift)
Natalie & Artem - American Smooth - "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" (from Dreamgirls)
As you will probably know by now, I haven't been a fan of Artem's choreography this series - he's great in the Latin, but his Ballroom choreography is quite hit-and-miss (mostly miss for me). Sadly, this was another miss in my book. The American Smooth is meant to have 40% in hold - and after watching this one over, there was only around 10% in hold (10 seconds out of 90). It was as if Artem was going for the gold medal in the Arm-Wafting Olympics. And although I thought the other lift was great, the crucifix one just looked messy (it was having Natalie do the roll-up to get into it), and surely that would have put quite a bit of strain on Natalie's back in the run-up to it? But then, like Kristina, the judges have let him get away with murder. His Viennese Waltz had pretty much no Viennese Waltz, but scored 38. This American Smooth wasn't an American Smooth and still got 36 (and a 10 from Bruno). I seriously think he's starting to become the Derek Hough of Strictly. Natalie's got the Paso Doble this week, to 'El Gato Montes'. It's a good song choice, and I think this could get Natalie a 40.
Judges' score: 36/40 (9, 9, 8, 10)
My score: 7.5 (2 points deducted for the lack of hold, and 0.5 deducted for the slightly messy lift)
Mark & Iveta - Samba - "I Just Can't Wait to be King" (from The Lion King)
LOVE LOVE LOVE this couple, and although it was the right time for them to go, I was still sad that they went as they (almost) always made me smile (except for that bloody Rumba!). This was probably Mark's best dance, and he did really well on the technical side of it. He just completely pulls you in to the performance. Iveta, I salute you for the brilliant job that you've done with Mark, and I'm looking forward to seeing you both on the tour (I'm thinking they'll have this and his Foxtrot).
Judges' score: 29/40 (7, 7, 7, 8)
My score: 6.5
Sophie & Brendan - Viennese Waltz - "My Favourite Things" (from The Sound of Music)
This was such a joy to watch, and is right up there with her Charleston in my opinion. Brilliant footwork, lovely choreography from Brendan. I agree with what the judges said about her topline - it's as if her head was too far to the left sometimes. Her arm extensions weren't quite finished off either. However, I absolutely loved it, and I don't often say that about a Viennese Waltz (I think only Susanna's and maybe Ashley's were as great as that). Sophie has the Tango this week, to 'Material Girl' by Madonna. I'm a little worried that she'll lack some sharpness, but that's mainly down to the song choice.
Judges' score: 36/40 (9, 9, 9, 9)
My score: 9
Abbey & Aljaz - Salsa - "You Should Be Dancing" (from Saturday Night Fever)
Now I'm going to have to somewhat agree with Karen Hardy on this one. I thought there was way too much disco and not enough Salsa the first time I watched it, but having looked it at again, there's a lot more Salsa than I thought. I'd say there was around 50-60% Salsa, which still isn't brilliant, but it's not as bad as I first imagined. Abbey looked a little messy in some parts, so I really don't understand the 10s. She's got the Viennese Waltz this week, to 'Delilah'. Abbey's Ballroom is pretty good, so I reckon she may well get some 10s for that one.
Judges' score: 40/40 (10, 10, 10, 10)
My score: 8 (1 point deducted for the 'too much disco' bits, and another for the messiness)
Ashley & Ola - Rumba - "A Whole New World" (from Aladdin)
First of all, BLOODY PIVOTS & KNEE SLIDES DO NOT NEED TO GO INTO EVERY ROUTINE! Ok, there's my little rant over with. Unlike Patrick's dance, I don't think flying in on the carpet was actually needed in this one. You could see that Ashley was terrified and it took 30 seconds until he actually started dancing with Ola. Considering that the Rumba is a difficult dance for a male celeb (as said by Len practically every series), he did pretty well with it. I did agree with the judges about the lack of hip action though. Ashley has the Salsa this weekend, and as he was quite good at the Samba, I don't think this one will be a problem for him.
Judges' score: 35/40 (8, 9, 9, 9)
My score: 8.5
Susanna & Kevin - Quickstep - "Good Morning" (from Singin' in the Rain)
I feel a bit sorry for Susanna. She started off really well, then it went completely wrong in the middle, then she recovered well, before going wrong at the end again. I don't think the choreography helped though, that middle section looked very difficult and it would probably be tricky for any non-pro to get completely right (and I'm including Natalie in that one). Bit iffy from Kevin there, plus he needs to learn to not over-dance as it makes Susanna look worse. They've got the Argentine Tango this week, and this should be an interesting one, as obviously we've never seen an AT from Kevin before, so we have no idea how good he is at it.
Judges' score: 33/40 (7, 8, 9, 9)
My score: 7
So this would be my leaderboard for the week:
=1. Patrick & Anya - 9
=1. Sophie & Brendan - 9
3. Ashley & Ola - 8.5
4. Abbey & Aljaz - 8
5. Natalie & Artem - 7.5
6. Susanna & Kevin - 7
7. Mark & Iveta - 6
As a little recap - last time, the judges didn't like the way that Ben & Kristina worked it, and they lost out to Mark & Iveta in the dance-off.
This week, it was all about the Musicals. So like practically every other week we get some dodgy songs, dodgy outfits and dodgy choreography. Nothing's changed there.
Patrick & Anya - Charleston - "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang"
Wow, now that was brilliant. The only criticism from me is that the 'lobster claw' lift (the very last one) looked a bit messy, but that's it. Patrick managed to give us the performance without going OTT and down the gurning route (Natalie, Susanna, please take note), and his technique was pretty good too. Ok, so there was a bit of faffing with the flying car but come on, of course they were going to do that with this song. Patrick has the Rumba this weekend, to 'If I Was Your Man' by Bruno Mars. I'm a bit worried as we haven't really seen the romantic side of Patrick so far (there was a bit in his VW, granted), and I don't know whether he's going to quite get 'into' it like Ashley did.
Judges' score: 38/40 (8, 10, 10, 10)
My score: 9 (just the one mistake with the lift)
Natalie & Artem - American Smooth - "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" (from Dreamgirls)
As you will probably know by now, I haven't been a fan of Artem's choreography this series - he's great in the Latin, but his Ballroom choreography is quite hit-and-miss (mostly miss for me). Sadly, this was another miss in my book. The American Smooth is meant to have 40% in hold - and after watching this one over, there was only around 10% in hold (10 seconds out of 90). It was as if Artem was going for the gold medal in the Arm-Wafting Olympics. And although I thought the other lift was great, the crucifix one just looked messy (it was having Natalie do the roll-up to get into it), and surely that would have put quite a bit of strain on Natalie's back in the run-up to it? But then, like Kristina, the judges have let him get away with murder. His Viennese Waltz had pretty much no Viennese Waltz, but scored 38. This American Smooth wasn't an American Smooth and still got 36 (and a 10 from Bruno). I seriously think he's starting to become the Derek Hough of Strictly. Natalie's got the Paso Doble this week, to 'El Gato Montes'. It's a good song choice, and I think this could get Natalie a 40.
Judges' score: 36/40 (9, 9, 8, 10)
My score: 7.5 (2 points deducted for the lack of hold, and 0.5 deducted for the slightly messy lift)
Mark & Iveta - Samba - "I Just Can't Wait to be King" (from The Lion King)
LOVE LOVE LOVE this couple, and although it was the right time for them to go, I was still sad that they went as they (almost) always made me smile (except for that bloody Rumba!). This was probably Mark's best dance, and he did really well on the technical side of it. He just completely pulls you in to the performance. Iveta, I salute you for the brilliant job that you've done with Mark, and I'm looking forward to seeing you both on the tour (I'm thinking they'll have this and his Foxtrot).
Judges' score: 29/40 (7, 7, 7, 8)
My score: 6.5
Sophie & Brendan - Viennese Waltz - "My Favourite Things" (from The Sound of Music)
This was such a joy to watch, and is right up there with her Charleston in my opinion. Brilliant footwork, lovely choreography from Brendan. I agree with what the judges said about her topline - it's as if her head was too far to the left sometimes. Her arm extensions weren't quite finished off either. However, I absolutely loved it, and I don't often say that about a Viennese Waltz (I think only Susanna's and maybe Ashley's were as great as that). Sophie has the Tango this week, to 'Material Girl' by Madonna. I'm a little worried that she'll lack some sharpness, but that's mainly down to the song choice.
Judges' score: 36/40 (9, 9, 9, 9)
My score: 9
Abbey & Aljaz - Salsa - "You Should Be Dancing" (from Saturday Night Fever)
Now I'm going to have to somewhat agree with Karen Hardy on this one. I thought there was way too much disco and not enough Salsa the first time I watched it, but having looked it at again, there's a lot more Salsa than I thought. I'd say there was around 50-60% Salsa, which still isn't brilliant, but it's not as bad as I first imagined. Abbey looked a little messy in some parts, so I really don't understand the 10s. She's got the Viennese Waltz this week, to 'Delilah'. Abbey's Ballroom is pretty good, so I reckon she may well get some 10s for that one.
Judges' score: 40/40 (10, 10, 10, 10)
My score: 8 (1 point deducted for the 'too much disco' bits, and another for the messiness)
Ashley & Ola - Rumba - "A Whole New World" (from Aladdin)
First of all, BLOODY PIVOTS & KNEE SLIDES DO NOT NEED TO GO INTO EVERY ROUTINE! Ok, there's my little rant over with. Unlike Patrick's dance, I don't think flying in on the carpet was actually needed in this one. You could see that Ashley was terrified and it took 30 seconds until he actually started dancing with Ola. Considering that the Rumba is a difficult dance for a male celeb (as said by Len practically every series), he did pretty well with it. I did agree with the judges about the lack of hip action though. Ashley has the Salsa this weekend, and as he was quite good at the Samba, I don't think this one will be a problem for him.
Judges' score: 35/40 (8, 9, 9, 9)
My score: 8.5
Susanna & Kevin - Quickstep - "Good Morning" (from Singin' in the Rain)
I feel a bit sorry for Susanna. She started off really well, then it went completely wrong in the middle, then she recovered well, before going wrong at the end again. I don't think the choreography helped though, that middle section looked very difficult and it would probably be tricky for any non-pro to get completely right (and I'm including Natalie in that one). Bit iffy from Kevin there, plus he needs to learn to not over-dance as it makes Susanna look worse. They've got the Argentine Tango this week, and this should be an interesting one, as obviously we've never seen an AT from Kevin before, so we have no idea how good he is at it.
Judges' score: 33/40 (7, 8, 9, 9)
My score: 7
So this would be my leaderboard for the week:
=1. Patrick & Anya - 9
=1. Sophie & Brendan - 9
3. Ashley & Ola - 8.5
4. Abbey & Aljaz - 8
5. Natalie & Artem - 7.5
6. Susanna & Kevin - 7
7. Mark & Iveta - 6
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