Isolate a small group of "celebronauts" and have them complete tasks as they are voted off the planet periodically and you have the essence of "Stars on Mars". This is "Big Brother", "Survivor", or any of the other shows where players use physical, mental and social skills to last the longest in the house, on the island, or---in this case---in the habitat.
Though the habitat is supposed to be in the Martian desert, there are fewer deprivations than on "Survivor". The novelty of the Martian theme is what distinguishes this from the other strategy competitions, but the novelty will not appeal to all viewers. In the end, these shows are glorified slumber parties or summer camps.
The other variable that determines enjoyment is the cast. This show's diverse cast has some celebs who are fun to watch. The chemistry among the participants is an unknown until filming starts. I like the fact that most of the celebs enjoy each other's company. It is also clear which stars are less compatible. In the end, the social game weighs heavily in the results. This is simultaneously discouraging (because an objective system based on merit would seem to be most equitable) and interesting (because we can observe the real-life results of tests to psyches and social bonds, as in a social experiment).
William Shatner, as host, is a nice touch, adding more humor to the mix.
Though the habitat is supposed to be in the Martian desert, there are fewer deprivations than on "Survivor". The novelty of the Martian theme is what distinguishes this from the other strategy competitions, but the novelty will not appeal to all viewers. In the end, these shows are glorified slumber parties or summer camps.
The other variable that determines enjoyment is the cast. This show's diverse cast has some celebs who are fun to watch. The chemistry among the participants is an unknown until filming starts. I like the fact that most of the celebs enjoy each other's company. It is also clear which stars are less compatible. In the end, the social game weighs heavily in the results. This is simultaneously discouraging (because an objective system based on merit would seem to be most equitable) and interesting (because we can observe the real-life results of tests to psyches and social bonds, as in a social experiment).
William Shatner, as host, is a nice touch, adding more humor to the mix.