episode ten...

Up the down elevator...

This is the first time in four seasons that I am not at all disappointed in the work of the judges.  Bravo, panel of pranksters.  We have a great lineup.

Of course, you waited until the tenth episode to introduce us to several of them, but, if the clips you so generously shared with us are any indication, these strangers received deserved invites to the party. 

But one must wonder if you're trying to sabatoge their chances.  Several of the kids have ever-expanding fan bases already, because of the significant amount of air time given to them.  We know Constantine "left" his band, that Anthony had a trach when he was a kid, that Anwar teaches middle school and Mikalah wants her mommy to have breast implants. 

But who is Joseph Murena?  What does Melinda Lira do?  Does Judd Harris want anyone to have implants?  And will Aloha get deflowered before the end of the game?

We don't know these things, because we don't know these kids.  Because you haven't introduced us.

Hello kids -- we're the voters.  Nice meeting you.

The rumblings have been consistently circulating that this field of 24 is the most talented thus far.  But they said that last year, and we got Camiles and Leahs.  So far, though, it seems as though it's true.  I cannot point to one face or one name and wince like in seasons past.  There are no novelty acts this year and no Jasmines.  (Provided, of course, we ignore Aloha's flower.) 

But is there a Fantasia?  Will Mario's ego get any larger?  Will Mikalah explode before it's all over?  Will Carrie get her baseball analogies right?  And will Scott ever act normal?

The first true test is Monday night as the guys take the stage.  (Yes -- MONDAY!!)  Tuesday is ladies night.  And Wednesday four get pink slipped.  Remember, in the first three weeks, we're voting people OFF the island, not voting to keep them, so if you love Sarah and Anwar, don't dial their numbers!  I know it's so unfair for them to change the rules so abruptly, but look at it as character building. 

Who's your favorite?  Pictures are on the entry below, just in case you've not yet learned who is whom.  Don't get too attached, though.  Twelve of them are going home.

Gotta love it.