I've loved this show since it's started and have always been aware of the need for votes on all these formats. This is the first year I've felt it's really trying too hard.
If it's all logical I can understand but tonight wasn't. When a person is given a routine and skates it beautifully and makes no mistakes with the props included I believe that should be appreciated. Everyone did.
But this is the first year I've felt things are being pushed too far one way or the other. I like to feel I have a choice for who I am supporting but I know now I don't. I won't mention it, just in case no-one wants it spoiled but it's not who you think.
I have to say, and it's just my opinion (and doesn't seem to be shared by anyone on here so I'm putting on some armour), Matthew is deliberately being over-marked. I technically agree with his tremendous skating ability but he does have areas that he has to improve on. His execution of moves is excellent but that's what they are - the general execution of moves in the right place at the right time. I don't know if he feels the music or, for an actor this is important, can perform a part. (I know he didn't win but see Chris Fountain for example, he was totally lost in cry me a river right 'til the end) Every move, every skill, every spin I know what's coming next - a knowing look and a 'look at me' gratification. He knows before he's even finished a move that he's going to do it properly and that he's going to get praise for it. It drives me nuts. However the cuter a guy is the more people forgive.
I am not going to choose anyone above others but if he's perfect (and has been from day one) why is he in a show that's for people to learn a new skill and gradually improve until the end? He's plateaued and no-one has mentioned he needs to up his performance and really invest in the whole performance to top it off.
And these guys are professionals!! They should know this.
It's not about technical ability for the audience, that's why we vote (and for the money). For us, in general, it's [i]usually[i] about character and skill development. To see Chico deliver amazing routines and give us inspiring words, for Jen to finally conquer her demons and find the confidence in performing, for Chemmy to fight back from potential paralysis and show courage, for Jorgie's performance skills and gracious nature, for Sebastian's determination and unique moves, for Sam's self-development and ability... I could go on. For all of these positives their negatives have to either be minimal or non-existent. It's tricky. And if that's not the point of this competition, if it's only the judges opinions that matter, take the phone vote away.
Grow in all you do, be the best you can be, come back from the brink and leave all with a good feeling. If you only care about yourself you might be the only one.
I'm feeling far too deep tonight, I have spraffed on and talked absolute cr@p but I just had to get it out there. Sorry to upset anyone, resume normal transmission in 3...2....1.
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