tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78351255131173133962023-11-16T03:31:19.610-08:00Survivor: From a Fan's Perspectivefashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-74228581024707403262013-12-17T01:43:00.000-08:002013-12-17T01:43:11.325-08:00Tyson Apostol: Newest Member of the Survivor Winner's ClubBefore Cochran in Survivor: Caramoan, I did a poor job of picking bets because none of my picks ever made it as far as Final Four. In fact, a few of them did not even make the merge! I cannot believe it took me 26 seasons to pick a winner as part of my initial bets and now it seems that I am on a roll. For the second season in a row, I picked a winner and I could not have been more happy with my choice - Tyson Apostol is the official winner of Survivor: Blood vs Water!<br />
<br />
This was a bittersweet win for Tyson because this season was ridden with emotions, drama, and strategic play that we haven't seen in any previous seasons. I was one of those who were skeptical about the twist from the start and even despised it. But sometimes, what doesn't look good on paper actually does work! And this is one of those few moments when it does!<br />
<br />
Right from the get-go, Tyson was in it to play. No one took him seriously. Who could, really? He was the skinny guy who was running around the river naked in Tocantins. Then, he was Boston Rob's right-hand man in Heroes vs Villains who fell for Russell's trap and voted himself out of the game. I was glad that Tyson did not give up on the game and went for a third time (guess this was his charm?) wherein we got to see a different side of his personality.<br />
<br />
To look back on this fantastic season, read on to find out my favorite Tyson moments in Survivor: Blood vs Water:<br />
<br />
5. On the finale episode, Tyson won a crucial immunity challenge because 1) he needed to keep Ciera or Tina from winning it, and 2) he still had the idol at that point, which gives him huge power heading into the Final Four. For his first individual immunity win this season, Tyson asked Jeff if he could kneel as the latter put on his immunity necklace as if he is being knighted. It's small details like this is what makes Tyson stand out as a character (to a point that his gameplay is often overlooked). But funny things aside, he got the job done and secured probably the most important challenge of the season for him at that point.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.trbimg.com/img-52af0f4d/turbine/bal-its-my-night-20131216/580/580x354" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://www.trbimg.com/img-52af0f4d/turbine/bal-its-my-night-20131216/580/580x354" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
4. The coconut bandits alliance of Tyson and Gervase was another comic relief from the game. The two formed a bond early on in the game by sneaking out and drinking coconuts without sharing it with their tribe mates at Galang. There was no strategy in this particular move whatsoever. And yet, it was pure entertainment gold (especially as they had their tribe mates wondering how all the coconuts had mysterious holes in them).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.boxofficeprophets.com/images3/power121513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.boxofficeprophets.com/images3/power121513.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
3. On Episode 3 of Survivor: Blood vs Water, right after Rachel (Tyson's girlfriend) was eliminated from Redemption Island, Tyson suffered an injury to his shoulders during the Sumo at Sea immunity challenge. He was matched up against Hayden when his shoulder popped out of place. Having picked Tyson as my bet to win, I was quickly worried for his future in the game. We've seen a few people taken out of the game for less serious injuries (he had to wear a sling for several episodes) but it was good to know that Tyson recovered from that injury and even made it all the way to the end.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.truedorktimes.com/s27/images/e4/e4tv50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://www.truedorktimes.com/s27/images/e4/e4tv50.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
2. The third episode was one of my favorites because seeing Rachel and Tyson interact at Redemption Island was one of the sweetest moments this season. Tyson has shown a sensitive side to him and it was nice to know that he can be vulnerable, too. The sacrifice that Rachel made was also endearing. She knew that Tyson has a better spot in the game so she was willing to fight for her life in the game so he can continue on with his journey. But when she was beaten by Marissa during the duel, Tyson approached her and asked if she had fun and it was heart-wrenching but sweet. Don't tell me that did not tug at your heart even for a little bit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img.deseretnews.com/images/article/contentimagetall/1225861/1225861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img.deseretnews.com/images/article/contentimagetall/1225861/1225861.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
1. Tyson wins Survivor: Blood vs Water! Third time is the charm. Tyson has come full circle with his Survivor experience. The first time he played in Tocantins, he was the goofy athlete best known for his one-liners and wacky confessionals. When he returned in Heroes vs Villains, he still had the same goofy side to him but Boston Rob took him under his wings. This time out, he had his strategy in full effect from day one and to have shared that experience with Rachel must have made this win extra special.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRVThnvLlyCbglyLksREY6LBiXnne7MApC01D4bOFGVBi61yuuhnV14Z97h-0rTxrIePPAKcqcKXygs0MCaXmjIjokyslBp5MPJBoUgrqS5OcCxjiYZz3qLcionq38p5HYQdflAQM3KUM/s1600/2013-12-15_2332.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRVThnvLlyCbglyLksREY6LBiXnne7MApC01D4bOFGVBi61yuuhnV14Z97h-0rTxrIePPAKcqcKXygs0MCaXmjIjokyslBp5MPJBoUgrqS5OcCxjiYZz3qLcionq38p5HYQdflAQM3KUM/s1600/2013-12-15_2332.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Are you happy with the winner of Survivor: Blood vs Water? How does the season rank from the other seasons?fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-24288703920919813032013-11-27T01:14:00.000-08:002013-11-27T01:14:20.664-08:00Survivor Blood vs Water: Gloves Come Off PreviewAbout 24 hours before the pivotal episode of Survivor Blood vs Water airs, fans can get a sneak preview of what's in store for them. CBS has released a preview video that showcases the first minute of the Redemption Island duel between Vytas, Tina and Laura M, who is back at Redemption Island after being voted out of Kasama and by her own daughter, Ciera.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiWPA4KP2UjTsbB37Rouq84PDpwBxnkIlkXP6mi4zl3bCSmIUe6s3NDHVQv-xlevyzbDP6AoG3g0xzjm4Va72ydDtG3uKh3D6Gs1k2TY3hb-aOGpLv2_9K6Flb9CflKBGX2Faoyuns4fPj/s1600/s27_press_images_ep11_0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiWPA4KP2UjTsbB37Rouq84PDpwBxnkIlkXP6mi4zl3bCSmIUe6s3NDHVQv-xlevyzbDP6AoG3g0xzjm4Va72ydDtG3uKh3D6Gs1k2TY3hb-aOGpLv2_9K6Flb9CflKBGX2Faoyuns4fPj/s640/s27_press_images_ep11_0022.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep11/s27_press_images_ep11_0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep11/s27_press_images_ep11_0008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep11/s27_press_images_ep11_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep11/s27_press_images_ep11_0006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Based on the initial press images released by CBS, this duel does not resemble any previous challenges. However, it can incorporate a few elements from previous challenges into a brand new concept. Watch the video for yourself and also take a closer look at some of the photos I found online (credits to www.survivorfever.net):<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/jmSVDfGDXD0?list=UUVW1RiWXTQL-G-3KcoRy-_g" width="560"></iframe></center>
<br />
<br />
<b>Immunity Challenge Preview</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep11/s27_press_images_ep11_0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep11/s27_press_images_ep11_0005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep11/s27_press_images_ep11_0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep11/s27_press_images_ep11_0009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep11/s27_press_images_ep11_0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep11/s27_press_images_ep11_0007.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe they get to pick whether to compete or eat?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The immunity challenge for this week, though, is a redux of the first individual immunity challenge of Survivor: Philippines. The challenge is dubbed "Wrist Assured" wherein each castaway will be holding onto a metal rod with a spool of rope tied around it that is connected to a bucket. The goal is to hang onto the metal rod for as long as you can - the last person standing wins immunity. This is easier said than done though because the bucket is weighed a certain percentage off of your body weight. Hence, the bigger you are, the heavier the weight you'd have to endure. As early as now, I am predicting that this is going to be a tougher challenge to win for the bigger guys such as Hayden and Gervase because they are going to be carrying heavier load. But will the girls have enough upper body strength to compensate for the lighter weight? We'll see.. it should play out interestingly.<br />
<br />
<br />
Who do you think will join Aras as the second jury member?fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-84978748196977634132013-11-02T07:39:00.000-07:002013-11-02T07:39:08.801-07:00Survivor Blood vs Water Episode 7: Swoop in for the KillA very interesting episode of Survivor went down this week.. Congrats again to the producers for continuing to excite us, week after week!<br />
<br />
Last week, Kat was voted off her tribe when she made an errant decision to open her mouth and target Monica. The move ended up biting her in the butt with Vytas masterfully using this flawed move to magnify Kat's lack of trustworthiness. Thus, Kat mopes in Redemption Island while contemplating on not only her future in the game, but also the future of her relationship with Hayden. Gotta love those one-liners, girl!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep7/tn_s27_press_images_ep7_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep7/tn_s27_press_images_ep7_0001.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: CBS</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
But the big question leading up to this week is this: will Hayden swap places with Kat? But in my mind, the real question should be this: how dumb will Hayden have to be in order to swap with Kat? Thankfully, Hayden opted to stay in the game even despite of Jeff Probst's tease to prove to Kat just how important their relationship is to him. Oh Probst! I am not a fan of your snide remarks, but this time out I loved how you swooped in to "test" this relationship. What a relief that Hayden did not take the bait even though Kat openly expressed that he hoped for him to swap because she sucked in the puzzle. For all the things I don't like about Kat's gameplay, you cannot not love her for her honesty!<br />
<br />
The duel was a cake walk for John who smoked the puzzle (again!). Even Laura who seems pretty good at puzzles herself was having a hard time. And with that, Kat leaves the game but not without another funny comment to Hayden that brought a smile to John's face. What is she, 15?!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi07-results-hdr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi07-results-hdr.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: CBS</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At the Tadhana camp, Aras is quickly becoming the odd one out. It does not help his cause either that he's constantly bringing up Vytas' name into the mix. It further heightens the suspicion on Tyson & .co's part about where Aras' loyalty lies. It's also coincidental that all of the other players at Tadhana no longer has a loved one in the game (except for Ciera whose mom is still fighting for her life at Redemption Island). Aras setting out to meditate backfires on him as it gives the others the opportunity to conspire against him and seal their alliance of five. Tyson has been blatantly expressing his willingness to turn on Aras when he gets the chance. For now, that door of opportunity closes on his face yet again as they survive another immunity challenge. <br />
<br />
In hindsight, keeping Vytas was not a good move for Galang (and especially for the girls). They've voted out two people already who are going to be numbers for them post-merge. See, Vytas might profess loyalty to the women of Galang now, but that is all he has to offer. But we know there's still Aras on the other side whom he can reconnect with and team up with... that's when Vytas is dangerous. He is dangerous by himself and even more potent with Aras by his side!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img2.timeinc.net/ew/i/2013/10/30/survivor-laura-boneham_320x240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://img2.timeinc.net/ew/i/2013/10/30/survivor-laura-boneham_320x240.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: CBS</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On the flip side, Laura B has nowhere else to go. Her loyalty is to Galang only. She was already voted out by the people from the original Tadhana and when she was switched with Rupert to join Galang, she's been part of that team. She is a sure number that is going to vote with them! If Vytas has had them convinced to get rid of two women off of their alliance already, imagine what he can do with Aras in the merge! Even Tina points it out herself that Vytas is a likeable guy and you would be persuaded by his smooth-talking ways if you had to depend on instinct. Does that mean that their vote in tonight's episode hinges on instinct? How much more damage would Laura B opening up her mouth do if they ended up voting for Vytas, anyway? Will that really change anything?<br />
<br />
Next week: it's merge time! The plan to break up the Vytas-Aras duo was not hatched but we'll see for how long these two will survive! Who do you think will come back into the game from Redemption Island? Don't forget to vote on the poll.fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-46528227939192292592013-10-25T01:12:00.002-07:002013-10-25T01:22:41.296-07:00Survivor Blood vs Water Episode 6: One Man Wrecking BallTonight's episode is probably the turning point of the season, thus far. We've already seen the preview of a tribal shuffle from last episode and with the first Galang member competing at Redemption Island (since Candice, of course), I suspect this was going to be a big episode!<br />
<br />
<b>The Beginning of the End for Aras?</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGoszQUcIraZHhka1MMzYOA53H_0YZpoOkhBgnHDog6j1yi3bSEWOOTKxBx1CaR0Nnx75hwNoYVJWfSRMI4Cyd5z_nIhx64em0zl3bXyZxCnepzW0AiWOSvjZ7Z_7F0LtKXbcZHXVv_Qsb/s1600/aras.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGoszQUcIraZHhka1MMzYOA53H_0YZpoOkhBgnHDog6j1yi3bSEWOOTKxBx1CaR0Nnx75hwNoYVJWfSRMI4Cyd5z_nIhx64em0zl3bXyZxCnepzW0AiWOSvjZ7Z_7F0LtKXbcZHXVv_Qsb/s400/aras.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
As suspected, Aras is feeling vulnerable and responsible for the Laura M blindside. He acknowledges the fact that Laura M feels most connected to him and so having him propose her name for the vote is going to put a huge target on his back. However, Laura M isn't the only one who felt the sting of the last vote as his allies Gervase and Tyson also talk about possibly voting for Aras at the next opportunity.<br />
<br />
The idea of Aras joining forces with Vytas post-merge is highly likely and when they do, that is a power duo right there. The strategic side to Tyson's game is finally coming out, along with his goofy side too (more on that later). He addresses the issue to Gervase in such a manner that Gervase would feel like it was a mutual understanding amongst them that Aras is a threat and that they would potentially write his name before merge time, if the opportunity presents itself. Tyson even manages to inject some questions to get Gervase to speak up about the plan, rather than outright blurting his idea. This means that Tyson is going to play big. In a way, it also cements the relationship between the two of them. It is also important to note that these two no longer have their loved ones in the game.<br />
<br />
<b>Bye, Brad!</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi06-hl-02-brad-loses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi06-hl-02-brad-loses.jpg" /></a></div>
The tyrant is out of the game for good. No wonder he was getting way too much airtime during the first three episodes or so because his numbers were up! The Galang tribe's strategy to send Laura M to Redemption Island has paid off as she ended up in first place with John narrowly beating Brad in the puzzle.<br />
<br />
This type of challenge, however, is well suited for women because it requires balance and dexterity. It was clear by the way the two men (bulky and heavy men, at that) were struggling to untie the bags of puzzle pieces while trying to balance in a narrow beam. I thought that the puzzle was pretty lame, though. Did not know that counting to a hundred can be classified as a "puzzle"? But the odds aren't in Brad's favor here - remember episode one when he can't even correctly count how 4 is the minority in a tribe of 9? (insert evil laugh here)<br />
<br />
As the first person to finish the puzzle, Laura M is also tasked to hand out the immunity idol clue. Vytas followed the Culpeppers' lead by throwing the clue to the fire. Clearly, that is a strong message towards Aras about her blindside. Then again, all these 'throwing the clue to the fire' charades has got to stop soon. Obviously, there are lots of con's to keeping the clue but there are also ways that you can use that tool to your advantage and even help out your alliance further down the road. It'll be interesting to see if anyone decides to take the idol clue in the future and what they do with it.<br />
<br />
<b>Tribal Shuffle</b><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi06-galang-hdr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi06-galang-hdr.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the new Galang tribe</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The two tribes were in for a shock as Jeff Probst announces a tribal shakeup after the duel. It was interesting how Aras, Gervase and Tyson ended up on the same tribe (the new Tadhana) because that means that Gervase and Tyson could still push through with their plan. However, some of the former Tadhana tribe members committed a fatal (?) mistake of sharing too much information. The veteran players were clearly trying to get information and they fell for the bait and even gave some points about the possible location of the hidden immunity idol. (Note: It is also important to point out how they were not even making an attempt to look for the idol if they knew a bit of information about the location of the idol.)<br />
<br />
The veteran players might have had a warm welcome upfront but Hayden is reeling from the idea of the veteran intruders, so to speak, rummaging through their food supplies non-stop. Tyson also lets out his goofy side (this is probably the most confessional he's had since the season started) playing up the coconut bandit tricks he's been doing in the other tribe. But what Tyson is doing by being goofy isn't purely for his tribe's entertainment, however. By playing up the "funny guy" role, no one would take him seriously or deem him a threat. It was already pointed out earlier that the Tadhana tribe was threatened by his athleticism in challenges that prompted them to vote out Rachel to lure him to swap. Thus, putting on this front will make him perceived as not as big a threat as Aras is.<br />
<br />
On the flip side, Vytas feels like he is on the bottom of the totem pole in his new tribe. Not only is he the sole male on the tribe but the other tribe member from the former Tadhana tribe he's switched with, Katie, is Tina's daughter. The odds are stacked against him, no doubt. Uh-oh. It looks like the Baskauskas brothers are in a tight spot in their respective tribes.<br />
<br />
<b>Buoy Oh Buoy</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Always love swimming challenges in Survivor and this week's was full of them. After an early blunder for the Galang tribe (courtesy of Tina and Laura), Tadhana is looking poised to take this win. I was initially scared for Gervase, though, given his dismal performance at the first immunity challenge. But it looks like he's improved immensely, even managing to keep up with Aras in retrieving the fish trap.<br />
<br />
But the highlight of this challenge was how the Galang tribe prematurely celebrated even after Jeff called them out twice for being wrong at the puzzle. Aras and Tyson remained composed after losing all of the lead they had at the first portion of the challenge. All I can say is glad that Ciera has finally stepped off the role of puzzle solver. The boys + Ciera get to take a break from tribal council, at least for this week. Although Aras is safe, I am now worrying for Vytas until...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi06-hl-04-tadhana-wins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi06-hl-04-tadhana-wins.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Shut Up, Kat!</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi06-hl-06-kat-torch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi06-hl-06-kat-torch.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
When you've been watching Survivor since the second season, you probably should be able to read through the edit. The moment Kat spoke up about Monica over-strategizing with her alliance, I knew she was in trouble (or set up for a downfall soon). It's cute how Kat was lecturing Monica (via a confessional) about how to play Survivor. Geez. But a confessional rant is passable, though. The moment she opened up her mouth to Tina about her decision to possibly vote off Monica instead of Vytas, she basically dug her own grave. Again, Survivor 101 here - do not be the first one to aggressively pitch someone from your own alliance's name for a vote. If you pick the target, you become THE target! It does not help that Monica and Tina were in on an alliance of five prior to the switch, so of course Tina's loyalty towards Monica is stronger than towards Kat.<br />
<br />
Kat also did not do a great job of saving herself afterwards when Monica tried to confront her about it. She was caught up in her own lie. And I felt at that point there was no saving Kat. The gloves come off for Vytas at tribal as Kat wanted to raise the point of staying true to the alliance of the girls, but Vytas is not hearing any of it. Kat's cry of desperation at tribal has fallen on deaf ear as she is sent to Redemption Island. I guess Monica stayed true to her initial conviction to "do unto others before they do it to you".<br />
<br />
Next week is going to be interesting as Vytas is finally putting his flirtatious card to good use. Seems like he's got Tina's approval. Meanwhile, will Hayden swap places with Kat at Redemption Island? Chime in your thoughts at the comments below.fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-10993658179437725362013-10-21T00:12:00.000-07:002013-10-21T00:12:26.585-07:00Survivor: Blood vs Water Episode 5 Insights<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGSpz4OGYCPJeh0Q4hXJvYaq7hlAmluGMmQ-evYWOKC3czBB44gE_GUKxWhgqs1KUnZ9bpaXryr-rfp4EJrOd1Ss6frEW-94CvA-U3iCWn4O52fFmta11Jvjn3qZsFQgCNqslVhkemNwUc/s1600/ustv-survivor-the-dead-can-still-talk-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGSpz4OGYCPJeh0Q4hXJvYaq7hlAmluGMmQ-evYWOKC3czBB44gE_GUKxWhgqs1KUnZ9bpaXryr-rfp4EJrOd1Ss6frEW-94CvA-U3iCWn4O52fFmta11Jvjn3qZsFQgCNqslVhkemNwUc/s400/ustv-survivor-the-dead-can-still-talk-4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: CBS</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The latest episode of Blood vs Water is rather predictable no matter how much CBS tried to hype up a blindside. Really, the network has to learn not to give anything away in their previews because them promoting a blindside in their social media channels only meant that we knew which Laura was going home. If that's not enough, the beginning of the episode was also rather suspicious. Four episodes in, we haven't seen much from Laura except for some exchange of looks and winks between her and her daughter, and yet she is seen desperately trying to flirt with Aras and her confiding to the camera that she "explicitly trusts" him. I am not sure about the conversations she's had with Aras but to proclaim that in Survivor is like a kiss of death. And that is exactly what went down this previous episode.<br />
<br />
The big story for this episode, though, isn't the blindside. It's the battle between the Cody's and Brad at Redemption Island. Candice, to be specific, has been highly outspoken about her dislike towards Brad and it was one of the anticipated moments of the episode for me to see them finally confront each other face to face.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi05-recap-ri-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi05-recap-ri-02.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: CBS</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I was pretty impressed with how Brad handled himself gracefully from his exit at tribal council and into the Redemption Island. However, we see that Candice is not buying it and has not changed her opinion of Brad. She seems ready to kick Brad off the game for good and called Redemption "her island". I am rooting for Candice to defeat the Culpeppers but her proclamation of the Redemption Island being "theirs" is not a good thing at all. It seems that her angst and frustration has taken Candice's focus away from the bigger picture of the game and is fixated on exacting revenge on Brad.<br />
<br />
Monica showed sympathy for Brad having to go to Redemption Island and fight for his life in the game. She offers Brad the opportunity to swap spots but the latter wanted to fight for his life back in the game. Ironically, he ended up beating Candice to stay alive and was one of the most exciting finish the duel has ever had. I was seriously gritting my teeth because I wanted Candice to win so bad. The look on John's face was indescribable when he saw that Brad finished the puzzle first. Must be really heartbreaking to see your spouse leave the game and you've got nothing to do to try and save them. But now, John is left to fend for himself. I think he has a better chance of competing again without Candice there because everybody else seemed to be threatened by the power couple should both of them make it back into the game post-merge. However, we've seen how John easily trusts people who pretend to be friends with him and use him for their own advantage. Without Candice there to be his voice of reason, he will have to be extra cautious and strategic every step of the way from here on out.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi05-recap-ic-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi05-recap-ic-01.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: CBS</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Going back to the actual game, Tadhana has finally broken their losing streak. This was another predictable edit. We saw the remaining five members of the Tadhana tribes go off on top of the mountain cliff and enjoying this majestic view while exchanging words of encouragement to each other. At the same time, I feel empathy for them. They are finally looking like a unified tribe without Brad's tyranny hovering at them. But I seriously questioned their decision to opt for the steaks, though, instead of the fishing gear. Amateur mistake, I guess. There are still a few days left to play before merge arrives and opting for one good meal versus sustainability isn't such a good choice, to say the least.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi05-recap-ic-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/survivor-2013-bvw-epi05-recap-ic-03.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: CBS</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There are three major things to look into with the coming episode following the Laura M vote:<br />
<br />
1) If Laura can beat Brad at the duel - This was one of the primary reasons cited by the returning players at Galang for voting off Laura M. It is, therefore, an important factor to look into next episode if they succeed in doing so. And if Brad does exit from the game, will this further cement the five-person alliance in that tribe? With a looming tribal shuffle next episode, it is also significant to look into whether that alliance can remain tight and survive until the merge.<br />
<br />
2) Speaking of the five-person alliance, it seems like Tyson and Gervase are taking a page off of Brad's strategy by planning to take out Aras as they're afraid he might be too threatening post-merge especially when he joins Vytas there. If this plan pans out, is it too early a move to make? Or is this alliance as strong as it initially appeared?<br />
<br />
3) Will Laura B finally fit in? We saw Jeff ask Laura B a rather awkward question about fitting in in her tribe of former Survivor castaways, plus she was also pointed out as the "easy vote" in the previous episode. But since she escapes getting her torch snuffed, where will her loyalties lie? Will the veterans regret their decision to cut her before the shuffle?<br />
<br />
I know. The drama never ends in Survivor: Blood vs Water. In fact, it's only getting started. Here are some press images for next episode to whet your appetite (courtesy of TVGN).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep6/s27_press_images_ep6_0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep6/s27_press_images_ep6_0007.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep6/s27_press_images_ep6_0031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep6/s27_press_images_ep6_0031.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep6/s27_press_images_ep6_0026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep6/s27_press_images_ep6_0026.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep6/s27_press_images_ep6_0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep6/s27_press_images_ep6_0014.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Who will be booted off next episode from Redemption Island? Share your predictions below.fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-91100309498811876032013-10-10T23:03:00.000-07:002013-10-10T23:03:38.708-07:00Insights on Survivor: Blood vs Water Episode 4<a href="http://survivor-insider.blogspot.com/2013/10/thoughts-on-survivor-blood-vs-water.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Last week</span></a> on Survivor Blood vs Water was intense with Tyson confronting Brad Culpepper at Redemption Island arena for being the architect to Rachel's ouster and this week was equally fired up! New layers continue to pile up each week and it's exciting to see how it all ties up in the end.<br />
<br />
Read on to find out what my thoughts are about this episode and some insights into the game moving forward...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJV3iWdew8_DT9a-A_i5eHkeoLlMIdbUjCZaIHo1H6mAp9R80d5f2EivQVo6zf0t8NAQ-tw7j5401E-SyJLz8NnaenlN8x_GKkvDRDrH6BH9AhV-zqlGn26ffmY5c5E_mHATw5MmhHGUj/s1600/Survivor-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJV3iWdew8_DT9a-A_i5eHkeoLlMIdbUjCZaIHo1H6mAp9R80d5f2EivQVo6zf0t8NAQ-tw7j5401E-SyJLz8NnaenlN8x_GKkvDRDrH6BH9AhV-zqlGn26ffmY5c5E_mHATw5MmhHGUj/s1600/Survivor-01.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image: insidetv.ew.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
1. This week's episode experienced a plateau after having an intense start with the Redemption Island arena confrontation between Candice and Brad (what else is new?) and tribal council that went bananas (more on this later)! First off, Monica comes to her husband's defense when loved ones of the voted off castaways were attacking him at the arena. She made an excellent point, however, that Brad was not the only person who voted for these people but rather they voted as a tribe. John retaliated with a warning to his former tribe mates to watch out for Brad because he isn't someone to be trusted. Duh. He also pointed out that all of the castaways sent to Redemption Island were Brad's idea - well, it wasn't but he took all the blame for it. And I cannot see why Brad is willing to take the blame although at this point there is not much he can do to mend that reputation!<br />
<br />
2. Oh Monica... I feel your pain for what your husband has gone through. But he's not a victim here - he shot himself in the foot and all the dirty laundry is coming back to haunt him. In fact, I don't think it was a smart move at all to openly declare to everyone at the Redemption Island arena that John made a mistake in trusting him. Really? In front of everybody else with whom you are competing against? Brad should really learn to censor himself before opening his mouth next time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/vo_marissa_ri.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/vo_marissa_ri.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
3. Sad to see Marissa go because she seems to be a great character and a hardcore competitor. She was simply put in an unfortunate situation having to fight her way back into the game. And a wrong kind of Redemption Island challenge at that! I mean, going up against two doctors in a puzzle that requires concentration and analytical skills seem to be right up Candice and John's alley! <br />
<br />
4. The move to throw the hidden immunity idol clue into the fire was somewhat of a shocker to me. But a smart move for Monica to deflect the target that the Cody's are trying to put on her. I thought for sure that Candice and John would be the one to throw the clue to the fire. The immunity idol is, therefore, a curious factor going into the merge. Is anyone going to have the balls to look for it? Can they find it without a clue? Obviously, no one is going to be willing to get that clue from here on out as it automatically puts a huge target on the recipient's back. <br />
<br />
5. Candice also shoots herself in the foot. Not only was flipping out on Brad a classless move, despite my adoration for Candice's physical prowess at Redemption Island or her entire Survivor stint, I think that she dug her grave deeper with that tirade at Redemption Island. She not only makes an enemy of Brad but also of Monica while simultaneously alienating herself from either of the tribes. It therefore makes all of her work in Redemption Island pointless because even if she goes back into the game, she has basically no one to work with. John has a better chance than her to align with some people if he makes it back into the game, but even then the chances are quite slim.<br />
<br />
6. Tyson's injury seems to be improving, which is good for me because <a href="http://survivor-insider.blogspot.com/2013/09/survivor-blood-vs-water-my-pre-show.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">I picked him as one of my favorites</span> </a>to win! In fact, he even competed in a strenuous challenge despite having a sling on one of his shoulders. But he is trying to play up his injury to get less work around camp. Heh. That guy is so smart, huh? <br />
<br />
7. Speaking of Tyson, it seems that a strong duo is building up between him and Gervase. We already know that they are both part of the five-person alliance at Galang. But going off on a secret rendezvous wherein they'd become "coconut bandits" was a really light and funny break from all the chaos that we were bombarded with earlier in the episode. It'll be interesting if this bond will go beyond simply sneaking out to drink coconut water. <br />
<br />
8. Caleb makes the BIG move! Obviously, there are a lot of pro's and con's for everyone involved with this particular move. Starting off with Caleb, the moment Brad came up with the idea to blindside John last episode might've fueled that mistrust going on between the two of them (probably more so from Caleb's end). But he blatantly declared that he trusted Hayden and Vytas, but not Brad, during tribal council. Hayden also points out that once that trust is broken, it'll be difficult to regain especially in a game like Survivor wherein trust is hard to come by. Going back to last week's vote, the moment Caleb realized that Brad was willing to vote out his own (of the five-person male alliance at Tadhana), he might've felt vulnerable that he would be the next target. It also did not help that Brad openly expressed voting out someone who no longer has a loved one on the other side to prevent irking them out (again his own loud mouth costing him). I thought it was ballsy to do it out loud at tribal council, in front of Brad and the rest of the tribe, because it puts the other two guys up against the wall. Should they jump shift or stay loyal to their kingpin? Obviously, Vytas switched his vote on the re-vote while Hayden stayed true to Brad (but not without thinking over long and hard).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.i.cbsi.com/cnwk.1d/i/tim2/2013/10/10/103342_D20568b_620x350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i.i.cbsi.com/cnwk.1d/i/tim2/2013/10/10/103342_D20568b_620x350.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
9. Caleb totally saved Ciera and most of the shock stems from the weird editing that showed little to none pre-tribal council. The gain he can get from this move is that he can control his own fate in the game. He no longer has to play second fiddle to Brad and putting his fate in the game in his hand. It'll be too early to tell if that move paid off. But if he and the other two guys can stay loyal, I still think that one of the two girls are in trouble should they go to tribal council next episode. <br />
<br />
10. The big question going into the next episode: is Hayden in trouble? I don't think so. He becomes the biggest physical asset in the tribe now that Brad is gone. But it certainly hurt his game to some extent because he has nobody to hide behind. Kat is not in a good spot in her own tribe, too, so it will be a challenge for them to get the numbers once they merge and they decide to work together (if both are still there). At least he can find consolation for having produced the episode title for two weeks in a row, right?<br />
<br />
11. An even bigger question next episode: how will Candice and John handle Redemption Island with Brad? It'll be a sweet revenge on either Candice or John's part if they can boot him out. But the preview shows Monica offering Brad the opportunity to swap places. Will he take it? More questions to be answered (or not) next episode...<br />
<br />
Did you like Episode 4 of Survivor Blood vs Water? Who do you think played the best strategy this week?fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-50686301349804768232013-10-04T09:30:00.000-07:002013-10-04T09:30:01.950-07:00Update on Tyson's Injury at Survivor: Blood vs WaterThe most recent reward/immunity challenge at Survivor: Blood vs Water was a highly physical one. Castaways will have to go up on a platform one at a time to go head to head with an opponent from the competing tribe via a sumo style wrestling competition. Indeed, as the tree mail noted, it is not your average pillow fight as some of the matchups got really intense.<br />
<br />
In one of those matchups, Tyson suffered an injury to his shoulder claiming that it popped out of place such that he cannot lift it. Most of you, like I am were probably curious about what happened with his injury because it did not get much airtime after that happened.<br />
<br />
Here is a longer video of the doctors examining Tyson's injury and their diagnosis:<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/UDxkbEtZKks" width="480"></iframe></center>
<br />
<br />
Do you think this injury will hurt Tyson's game? Will he be medevac'd?fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-71313368858795240412013-10-03T02:48:00.000-07:002013-10-03T02:48:33.394-07:00Thoughts on Survivor: Blood vs Water Episode 3Okay... where do I begin? Three episodes in and Survivor already has me gritting my teeth as I watch from the couch. And yet, the fact that it is only Episode 3 means there is a lot of game left to watch (aka scheming, strategizing, and lots of blindsides for sure!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRw-WwDU3SyItsZq7rB-P9p40wLqOseYpjWOsUgtVp6ALsyEDLsGNimdzBbCXRL2Mjo8d34odoGwWnRj-hUoltVoO0WOkA9TiZegMaQzpernpaPqRlot5bNjWGNhKlS3Y36C9t25bckS_G/s1600/vo_tc_john.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRw-WwDU3SyItsZq7rB-P9p40wLqOseYpjWOsUgtVp6ALsyEDLsGNimdzBbCXRL2Mjo8d34odoGwWnRj-hUoltVoO0WOkA9TiZegMaQzpernpaPqRlot5bNjWGNhKlS3Y36C9t25bckS_G/s400/vo_tc_john.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The CBS promos leading up to this week's episode has promised that the first 10 minutes of the game is going to be a shocker! Actually, I expected that Colton wouldn't quit at all because if the promos suggested the same, then that wouldn't be a shocker, right? Turns out that Colton went ahead and quit the game as the rest of the tribes looked on in shock and distaste. The first few minutes of the episode exemplified a lack of social skills in Colton as he insisted on playing strategy. Not to say that Colton had perfected the social game last time out, at least he did a better job of trying to connect with certain people whereas this season he alienated himself from everyone else and did not even feign attempt to build relationships. Although strategy might be an integral part of the game, you are not one to jump ahead of your tribe. Aras points it out to him but he does not seem to grasp the idea that while he is in danger, his game is not over yet.<br />
<br />
A clearly ticked off Jeff Probst called out Colton during the duel about feigning his illness the last time. But because Colton has insisted on his initial decision to quit, Jeff let him leave the game but refused to give him the opportunity to throw his buff in the urn on his way out. What a waste of another person's spot in the game!<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, when the Galang tribe found out that Rachel was voted off, Tyson was smart enough to catch up to the other tribe's strategy. Thankfully, he and Rachel outsmarted the male alliance's strategy of trying to get Tyson to switch. Rachel also outed Brad as being the orchestrator over at Tadhana, to which Marissa seconded with some vulgarities at him. Brad gets the brunt of the wrath from the castaways (and their loved ones) that had been voted off so far. This is where Vytas' excellent ploy <a href="http://survivor-insider.blogspot.com/2013/09/survivor-blood-vs-water-episode-2-rule.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>last episode</b></span></a> worked for him because it was his plan to vote off Rachel to weaken the other tribe, but he did present it in a form of question so it would appear as Brad's idea.<br />
<br />
As for the actual duel, Candice smoked this challenge yet again. She finished the challenge way ahead of everybody else. The competition between Marissa and Rachel end up being neck-and-neck with Rachel being a few seconds behind Marissa. And with that, allow me to highlight one of the sweetest and most touching moments we've seen in Survivor as Tyson walks up to Rachel after she lost the duel.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNvqUn6jm9vEtRchgf9nfRcuqs4IXbUFbLlVU3XYilyO2UNMJjxsMNdLpS8_pUAOO0nOx5ts4TJZoip30W5OaQpyBjLgotEBRL2zhEiXk1dbDCfmmHPAkYAmHyAnwyyJ-XKK-E1M-aqWs0/s1600/vo_ri_rachel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNvqUn6jm9vEtRchgf9nfRcuqs4IXbUFbLlVU3XYilyO2UNMJjxsMNdLpS8_pUAOO0nOx5ts4TJZoip30W5OaQpyBjLgotEBRL2zhEiXk1dbDCfmmHPAkYAmHyAnwyyJ-XKK-E1M-aqWs0/s1600/vo_ri_rachel.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
With Candice winning, she also hands the second immunity idol clue to John. Again, I cannot fault Candice for giving the clue to John yet again! However, it can put a lot of ideas into the other castaway's mind about not only John gaining a huge advantage in the game by finding the idol but also in terms of solidifying Candice and John as a unit. But John finally comes to his senses and decides to share the clue to Brad. At this point, I thought it was a good move for John to share the idol clue to Brad because it would create a sense of security in Brad's mind about being the kingpin of his tribe. In a sense, Brad is also the head of their all-male alliance and there is no need for him to share the information to the rest of his alliance-mates. In Survivor, it is important to keep the information under control.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYNNUxTX_RxZookHhbKz3sINpS9Q96h1VUem72xagoNZG05a3eoWVJXbvpCSVvod1Oq5jIiKtQeI_TJaB3yZZ-ivnzAOPEWuTOZKPgHqb_ohTysqS6F21P26pLDBwP0NlCXmPsg-zMge4r/s1600/s27_press_images_ep3_0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYNNUxTX_RxZookHhbKz3sINpS9Q96h1VUem72xagoNZG05a3eoWVJXbvpCSVvod1Oq5jIiKtQeI_TJaB3yZZ-ivnzAOPEWuTOZKPgHqb_ohTysqS6F21P26pLDBwP0NlCXmPsg-zMge4r/s400/s27_press_images_ep3_0010.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
John, however, lacked proper execution here. He shared the clue to Brad but he is still holding back. This causes Brad to feel like John is being shady as he won't commit to looking for the idol together. As soon as that doubt starts to creep in (and it's not like this is the first time that they had been skeptical about John), people within your tribe are going to start wondering if you have the idol or not, especially if you are being secretive about it.<br />
<br />
As for the immunity challenge, it was a physical one. Even before this challenge started, I already thought that Tadhana will finally get their first win and Monica might be in serious trouble. Her loved one, Brad, had been in the heat of things at the duel so they can orchestrate a revenge by voting off his wife. That is not going to happen, though, as the girls of Tadhana had a poor showing. Katie was beat twice by older ladies (her mom Tina and Laura) and same goes with Ciera. Thus, Tadhana books another date with Jeff at tribal council.<br />
<br />
Initially, the ideal scenario is to vote off Brad. But if the rest of the guys are smart, like they've shown they are, they decided to get rid of John. In doing so, they eliminate two threats - John as a strong physical and strategic player who can potentially reunite with Candice post-merge, and the hidden immunity idol. The idol has been put in the air over the past couple of episodes. Since John got the first clue (publicly at that), everyone in his tribe has been kind of tip-toeing around the idea that he might have already found it. It is almost a cardinal sin to not have shared it to his alliance. But his decision to keep his tribe in the shadows about the status of the idol might've been too big of a threat to ignore. They can take care of Brad later. And with the amount of hate that he's been getting so far, he is actually the ideal guy to sit next to.<br />
<br />
What do you think of this episode? Personally, loved it although the first half was too intense that the second half might have paled in comparison. Excited to see what comes down at the duel next week though as this time it's going to be Candice vs Brad!fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-64820958475331847162013-09-26T01:29:00.000-07:002013-09-26T07:14:36.628-07:00Survivor Blood vs Water Episode 2: Rule in ChaosAfter a <a href="http://survivor-insider.blogspot.com/2013/09/survivor-blood-vs-water-episode-1.html" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">promising premiere episode</span></b></a>, the second episode of Survivor: Blood vs Water kicks things into high gear as Marissa is sent off to Redemption Island looking as pissed as we've seen anyone voted off the game in recent times. Rachel, one of my favorites (not to win though, but I love her as a character), is sent off to Redemption Island together with Candice and Marissa to fight for her life in the game. Before we discuss that further, let's go back to the episode and see what happened (I will be chiming in my thoughts from time to time).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWAnGqI4rm27JNvGZvk5w3QWiVaO9eo4c2hoMMX59CNU-rJyku0XkRc2bhSZhIjA_D26BN23ZhNjl0dzQCOgqHmzfYgyck3Je8Zz94I0rC_TLBeycR7GAotOJHxFQBJDVzlnaWZ2ePsoxJ/s1600/s27_press_images_ep2_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="411" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWAnGqI4rm27JNvGZvk5w3QWiVaO9eo4c2hoMMX59CNU-rJyku0XkRc2bhSZhIjA_D26BN23ZhNjl0dzQCOgqHmzfYgyck3Je8Zz94I0rC_TLBeycR7GAotOJHxFQBJDVzlnaWZ2ePsoxJ/s640/s27_press_images_ep2_0001.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>The Truel & Hidden Immunity Idol</b><br />
<br />
Few minutes into the episode, Jeff shows up at the Redemption Island arena, which I have to point out is the best looking arena we've had on the show so far. Curiosity might have ran high at the returning castaways' camp to see who got voted off of the other tribe. Upon seeing that it was Marissa, Gervase tried to play it cool while the others could not keep their emotions in check. Kat, Tina, and Monica were visibly in tears from what they pointed out as relief to see their loved ones still on their tribe.<br />
<br />
The truel, apparently because there has been so many discussions on social media about how using the term "duel" is incorrect, is a re-dux of the One World immunity challenge. From seeing the mechanics of this competition, I knew that Rupert was in serious trouble. The challenge requires dexterity, patience, and concentration, of which individual challenges are characterized by. Rupert's brawn served him no advantage whatsoever; in fact, he exhibited careless sense of urgency as we see him dropping the first plate on his first attempt as he tried to speed by the course.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep2/s27_press_images_ep2_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep2/s27_press_images_ep2_0017.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Candice, on the other hand, was the picture of focus as she masterfully placed one plate after another eventually earning her the first place finish. Marissa, who was behind initially, caught up after Rupert knocked off his plates forcing him to start over. Guess the strategy to be lazy in Redemption Island wasn't as promising as envisioned, right? And with that, Rupert goes home first. It also officially puts an end to the Boneham family's quest for another million dollars! The idea of Laura going all the way to win it is a long shot.<br />
<br />
In true Jeff Probst fashion, he also introduced another twist during the duel wherein he revealed that the first to finish the challenge will get to award any of the other castaways a clue to the hidden immunity idol. With Candice, it was a no-brainer decision to give it to John. But then again, this decision is a double-edged sword. By giving him the clue to the idol, it also puts a huge target on John's back (as if he doesn't already have one) and this was evidenced in tonight's episode when his own alliance mates were having doubts on John's unwillingness to share information about the immunity idol location. And while a part of me is thinking it was a bad move on Candice's part to give the clue to John, if he can find that idol and share the information with the right people (or not), or know how to use the idol to protect himself, then it might be worth taking the risk! Nonetheless, it draws suspicion and John will have a lot of work to do to win that trust back from his all-male alliance.<br />
<br />
<b>Men vs Women at Tadhana</b><br />
<br />
The divide between gender at Tadhana (aka Loved Ones) tribe is giving the men's alliance a clear advantage in numbers. Rachel admits to feeling vulnerable by being in the minority, but there is a bigger source of worry for her as Katie and Ciera are starting to get suspicious when Rachel fails to attempt to bond with the women. Instead, she is becoming more close to John and they fear that the two have formed a secret sub-alliance.<br />
<br />
The men are also plotting against Rachel citing how they are using her as bait to have Tyson swap out places with her in Redemption Island. With the possibility of Tyson swapping, they automatically weaken the other tribe (as Tyson is perceived as the strongest physical competitor on the other tribe) and also take out a weak player off of their tribe. But this proposition does not sit well with John because not only does he have an alliance with Rachel, but he also fears for Candice's life in the game should she be forced to go up against Tyson in the Redemption Island duel. <br />
<br />
<b>Colton = Chaos</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep2/s27_press_images_ep2_0026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/s27_press_images_ep2/s27_press_images_ep2_0026.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The old Colton is back! Seems like everywhere he goes, he brings chaos with him. The other castaways are starting to notice the paranoia and drama he brings to the tribe. The anti-social, whiny Colton that we knew in One World is back in its true form. Aras and Tyson were starting to take notice. But Colton can't sit still. He started plotting against the other castaways behind their backs noting how he wanted the camp to erupt in chaos because that is where he thrives.Sadly for him, this isn't a group of newbies that he can intimidate by his mean threats.<br />
<br />
Aras earns my nod tonight for calling Colton the "gay Russell Hantz" for his intimidatory antics in an attempt to build mistrust around the camp.<br />
<br />
<b>The Case of the 5-Person Alliance</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://survivor-insider.blogspot.com/2013/09/survivor-blood-vs-water-episode-1.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>Last week</b></span></a>, we saw Brad spearhead the formation of a five-person alliance within their tribe consisting of all males. This time out, another alliance is brewing over at the Galang tribe with Aras, Tyson, Gervase, Tina, and Monica. The bond was solidified after Colton tried to bring chaos by pitting his own tribe mates against each other.<br />
<br />
<b>Gervase Redeems Himself</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/survivor-blood-vs-water-episode-2-challenge-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/survivor-blood-vs-water-episode-2-challenge-6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Hold on - I am not being a fan girl here. When I say Gervase redeemed himself, it was nice to see him step up with the non-swimming challenges. And it is interesting to note that the Galang tribe assigned him to handle that stage of the competition because I felt that he let the team down during the first challenge. It certainly helped his self-esteem to win that for the team but he's still no Tyson! And yet, that does not keep him from cheering on to his heart's content, staying true to his promise to Marissa prior to the start of the duel.<br />
<br />
<b>John Escapes Duel vs Wife</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/vo_rachel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.survivorfever.net/images27/vo_rachel.jpg" /></a></div>
This week's vote at Tadhana's second trip to tribal council was all over the place compared to last week's unanimous vote. The men voted for Rachel, while Ciera and Katie voted for John, and Rachel voted for Ciera. Even though John escapes the vote, he is in a vulnerable spot in the tribe right now because the guys are starting to doubt his loyalty to their alliance and his immunity idol clue poses a huge threat. It makes even more critical for John to find that idol if he wants to save his butt at the next time they go to tribal council.<br />
<br />
Do you think that voting off Rachel was the best move for Tadhana? Is Tyson willing to swap with Rachel's spot at Redemption Island? Share your thoughts below at the comments section. fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-78854179595214057192013-09-25T02:42:00.000-07:002013-09-25T02:42:28.687-07:00Survivor Blood vs Water Episode 2 Sneak PeekIt's less than 24 hours until the airing of the second episode for Survivor's 27th season, Blood vs Water. With the first Redemption Island duel and another immunity challenge in tow, fans are excited to see how this promising season will shape up. The first video is a sneak peek into first Redemption Island duel wherein the first boot of the season will be determined. Candice, Rupert, and Marissa (who was earlier voted off Tadhana) are the three competitors fighting to stay alive in the game. Meanwhile, the second video is for the second immunity challenge between Galang and Tadhana.<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/g5m1Iy0ProQ?list=UUVW1RiWXTQL-G-3KcoRy-_g" width="560"></iframe></center>
<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/6FHdEhmJ9Mc" width="560"></iframe></center>
<br />
<br />
Are you excited yet? Any predictions for Episode 2?<br />
<br />
Disclaimer: All videos credit to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/SurvivorOnCBS?feature=watch" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>Survivor on CBS YouTube channel</b></span></a>fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-46543328277958107262013-09-20T20:25:00.001-07:002013-09-20T20:25:02.891-07:00Survivor Blood vs Water Episode 1: Guilty by AssociationWhen Jeff Probst and CBS unveiled the new twist and cast list for Survivor Blood vs Water, I had a lot of doubts. Too many twists that are too ambitious. That's what first came into my mind. But until the premiere episode aired, I did not realize it would be as emotionally-ridden as they tried to hype it up. See, Survivor is already a complicated game by design. You have to cheat, lie, and backstab at some point! But when family members and real relationships are at stake, I feared that the concept might not be strewn well enough into what Survivor is really about.<br />
<br />
<b>Day Zero</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsaHq5mIxFw2cUee6uX_BuIvUf9teDhum2DIGhH4n9sfUEqjf8UF2H-92BbHgMImnw8Y7vvgVRXrzJjo8bVSAQfkyGaGnj5fcVhgAgmwjgjZ1ft2vm53zRP6dRz22Sfvd0PjBYa7ybxPk8/s1600/survivor-2013-bvw-epi01-02-first-elimination.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsaHq5mIxFw2cUee6uX_BuIvUf9teDhum2DIGhH4n9sfUEqjf8UF2H-92BbHgMImnw8Y7vvgVRXrzJjo8bVSAQfkyGaGnj5fcVhgAgmwjgjZ1ft2vm53zRP6dRz22Sfvd0PjBYa7ybxPk8/s400/survivor-2013-bvw-epi01-02-first-elimination.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I thought that this Day Zero thing was a lousy entrance to the game. They could've done without it, really. They could have simply greeted the castaways on the beach and sent them off with the shock that they won't be playing together. No more charades, just get down to the business. I get that they wanted the castaways and their loved ones to immerse themselves in the experience of spending 39 days on an island by each other's side, but then again weren't they already assuming that mindset few days heading into the game?<br />
<br />
But here's the harder part.... just when we witness the dismay in Colton's face in realizing that he won't be spending time with his fiance, Jeff drew another dagger. Each tribe will have to vote off one tribe member right off the bat. Uh-oh. This looked like a flashback into Survivor: Palau wherein Wanda and Jonathan were sent home after only spending 24 hours in the game. That would be ridiculous, right? The Loved Ones tribe (aka Tadhana) unanimously voted off Laura, Rupert's wife. Rupert looked pissed as Laura tried to hold back her tears. As she approached the mat beside Jeff, she quipped "Got get 'em honey" to Rupert.<br />
<br />
Then, Candice suffered the same fate, although it was not as unanimous a vote, she still got the majority. Ouch! That was more shocking than the Laura vote on the other side because Candice is actually a pretty strong competitor. But the majority vote sticks and she looked dismayed as John looked on helplessly.<br />
<br />
As Jeff revealed the return of the Redemption Island twist, things got even crazier only within less than 30 minutes into the episode. When offered the opportunity to replace their loved ones' spot in Redemption Island, Rupert made what appeared to be a sweet and heroic gesture in one regard, but a stupid move that cost his tribe. We hear Tina pleading from behind for him not to do it. But Rupert's mind was already made up the moment he stepped off that mat, I believe. This particular move, on the surface, might seem like such a heroic thing to do, such a gentlemanly act that showed how far he'd go for and what sacrifices he'll make for his wife. But he put himself in a vulnerable position - he now has to fight to stay alive in the game! What a huge shift after just one episode! Meanwhile, Laura is thrust into a tribe that she feels alienated and intimidated by. These are all Survivor vets who knew each other in and out of the game. Laura struggled to fit in right off the bat. If there is any strategy at all, it was clearly not implemented here because now both of them have no or slim chance to potentially win the game.<br />
<br />
As for Candice, John was put in the hot seat. Most people probably expected John to make the same sacrifice for his wife, too. But then again, we all knew it would be a dumb move. So I heaved a sigh of relief when he opted to let Candice stay in Redemption Island. She is a strong woman who can survive on her own, whereas I would picture Laura to lie in fetal position waiting for Rupert to come and save her.<br />
<br />
When all the chaos is over and done with, Jeff sent each tribe off to their respective beaches to start a 39-day adventure on the Philippine islands.<br />
<br />
<b>Tribes Settling In</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.i.cbsi.com/cnwk.1d/i/tim2/2013/09/19/103342_D05475b_620x350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i.i.cbsi.com/cnwk.1d/i/tim2/2013/09/19/103342_D05475b_620x350.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The Galang or Returning Castaways tribe made use of their experience to build fire within an hour or so since arriving at their beach. They also quickly put together their shelter but some of the castaways can't stop pointing out how big of a difference Rupert's sacrifice made in terms of putting the camp together. The apologetic Laura felt all the more alienated by it.<br />
<br />
Then, we saw a different side to Colton professing his insecurities as one of the main reasons why he was mean the last time he played. But Monica is on the fence about Colton - has he changed or is he still the same? Are those crocodile tears? For now, the two former rivals made their pact.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, an alpha male alliance is brewing over at Tadhana's camp. Brad Culpepper, Monica's husband, spearheaded the alliance of the muscles. Most are quick to jump onboard at the idea even shaking on it. But Caleb was quick to catch up (smart cookie). Thankfully, he was smart enough to go along with the plan for now noting that he will agree to anything that is thrown at him at this point. <br />
<br />
<b>Poor Sportsmanship</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/survivor-blood-vs-water-prem-ratings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/survivor-blood-vs-water-prem-ratings.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The first immunity challenge was another classic Survivor multi-leg challenge with the first half consisting of the physical aspect and the latter half involving puzzles. Thank you, Survivor challenge producers, for sparing us of those tossing challenges that plagued Caramoan. But before we were treated to a thrilling comeback of the mommy trio in Laura, Tina, and Monica, we saw a dismal showing on Gervase's part in the swimming leg. At one point, he was so winded that he took a sweet 10-15 seconds of his time in the final platform before launching himself in the water. I had to give props to Aras' patience waiting on him. If that would've been me in Aras' position, I would have seriously pushed his lazy ass off the platform.<br />
<br />
Then, he asked Aras to help him out in the swim so they can get to the boat. Good thing, Tyson and the rest of the tribe quickly released their boat so they can paddle back and Gervase could get to the safety of the boat. The lapse-marred performance of Galang did not end there because they were paddling in the wrong direction as the Tadhana rowers did a flawless job. The Galang tribe looked like the rookies in this challenge - they looked jittery in every aspect of that obstacle run!<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b> </b>But the puzzle solvers for Galang made up for serious time! They eventually took home the immunity idol and Gervase was so pumped by the comeback win that he yelled at the losing tribe! Uh, weren't you just so close to drowning earlier that Aras had to come to your rescue? Wow! The audacity of some people. I guess Gervase played such a long time ago that he forgot how to play the game at all.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/survivor-2013-bvw-epi01-09-marissa-torch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/survivor-2013-bvw-epi01-09-marissa-torch.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Fast forward to tribal council... the big question is this: Katie or Marissa? If you were watching the episode intently, the answer would've been a no-brainer. Katie stepped up to do the puzzle but fumbled all over. Marissa, on the other hand, looked strong and competent and seemed like a good asset to the tribe when it comes to challenges. But with only few days in, there are only as little reason to be basing your votes on. Sadly, the majority of the Tadhana tribe felt that Gervase' unsportsmanlike conduct at the end of the immunity challenge merited a vote for Marissa. She looked pissed, stone-faced as Jeff snuffed her torch. For one last time, she gave the rest of her tribe a cold stare. Welcome to Survivor, Marissa!<br />
<br />
Thankfully, the two people at Redemption Island welcomed her with open arms, which is quite ironic because these are the three that are going to fight each other to determine who gets to stay in the game!<br />
<br />
Next week, we will finally have our first boot off this season.. any guesses? Be sure to vote on the poll so we can determine what everybody else thinks about Tadhana's vote at the first TC!fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-81759461422306747342013-09-16T01:38:00.000-07:002013-09-16T01:38:27.273-07:00Survivor Blood vs Water: My Pre-Show PicksThe 27th season of Survivor is set to premiere this week and fans are excited to witness one of the craziest twists that the game has had since the racial tribal split in Cook Islands. This means that it is also time to make my picks on who I think has the best chance to win the season. It was a difficult choice for me having to pick who I thought would have the best chances to win, particularly in the Returning Players side. <br />
<br />
<u><b>Returning Castaways</b></u><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgx-lMUBacoCtcy_8GUGjVrK3XazMbXxujmUsst3J2Aie-czAU-_4LpiCLNEZaXojveqBXq8IJG_3wOn5uuiNrv7qKUwqU5J9AcxDpryPiKjeNuLSDK5wPn4RJoKbPal0NkBNs9FHOKh5K/s1600/tyson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgx-lMUBacoCtcy_8GUGjVrK3XazMbXxujmUsst3J2Aie-czAU-_4LpiCLNEZaXojveqBXq8IJG_3wOn5uuiNrv7qKUwqU5J9AcxDpryPiKjeNuLSDK5wPn4RJoKbPal0NkBNs9FHOKh5K/s320/tyson.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<b>Tyson Apostol</b><br />
<br />
Who doesn't love Tyson? He is goofy and does not take himself seriously. It's rare to find a personality in the show like this and Tyson is definitely a gem. Having said that, I pick Tyson mainly for the entertainment value he offers. But that does not mean he is not capable to win this game, either. He is physically up to par with the best competitors out there, especially in this batch of castaways. He is also right to point out that he is in the middle of the pack in terms of the age and athletic ability. Thus, he will not be singled out for being a huge physical threat right off the bat nor will he be on the outs socially.<br />
<br />
The biggest challenge for Tyson in this season is his ability to maintain his focus in the game. We saw him make one of the worst moves in Survivor history last time he played, which got himself voted off by his own doing. If only he can be more calculated about what moves to make and when to make them, I think he has a pretty decent shot.<br />
<br />
<b>Aras Baskauskas</b><br />
<br />
I am not full-on riding on the idea that Aras can win this game for a second time. I could be wrong. I thought the same of Sandra, too, in Heroes vs Villains. But then again, Aras and Sandra are two different types of winners. Aras is perceived more as a physical and strategic threat whereas Sandra likes to orchestrate behind people's backs. If Aras can strike before he can be struck at, he might be in good shape. <b> </b> <br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Loved Ones</b></u><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://xfinity.comcast.net/blogs/tv/files/2013/08/katie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://xfinity.comcast.net/blogs/tv/files/2013/08/katie.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Katie, Tina's Daughter</b><br />
<br />
I don't know why I picked Katie - I simply have a good vibe about her. She is charming, lovely, and seems pleasant to be around. These characteristics are going to help her in the social aspect of Survivor because she is definitely going to be fun to hang with. Katie also appears to love the outdoors, as I've seen in her CBS bio, so the elements might not be that much of a big deal for her.<br />
<br />
The strategic side is the biggest question mark. When her mother, Tina, played and won Survivor, the strategic game wasn't as cutthroat as it is now. I am doubting her ability to go there if needed to - of course, they would say they would do anything. I could be wrong. But I have good vibes towards Katie so I am counting on her to pull through.<br />
<br />
<b>Vytas, Aras' Brother</b><br />
<br />
I am picking Vytas to win because I believe that Aras is going to have a bigger target on his back simply for being a former winner. Not that I don't think Aras won't do good or go far, but the target is going to be there. Vytas appears to have the same personality as Aras is, plus they are both athletic and sociable. <br />
<br />
My initial perception of Vytas is that he is smart and is able to read people and situations around him really well. In their pre-show interview, both he and Aras noted adaptability as going to be a crucial aspect of their individual games and I don't see Vytas having problem with that. He is going to be well liked by both male and female castaways on his tribe, plus he is going to be a force in challenges, too. In addition to his athleticism, Vytas also practices yoga (as with Aras) and that is going to help him channel his energies where they need to be and maintain proper mental focus in a game that is more mental than physical. It'll be interesting to see how far he goes or if he can go all the way.<br />
<br />
<b>Caleb, Colton's Fiance</b><br />
<br />
I cannot believe that I would pick someone that has some sort of association with Colton, probably one of the most hated player in Survivor history. But Caleb is a wildcard pick for me. He has enough likability that I think people will overcome the fact that he's Colton's fiance to want to be around him, and that he is going to be a lot of use around camp. I don't think that Colton has any chance at all to win this game so having him around is also going to help Caleb's game because much of the animosity is going to be focused towards Colton.<br />
<br />
The strategic part of Caleb's game is going to be the biggest question mark, though. This is when he might be able to use Colton to his advantage because he appears to be a highly grounded person to me that I don't think he will be as cunning or manipulative as Colton can be. One thing that might work against Caleb is if and when he proves to be likeable, he might be perceived as a threat to win and if the other castaways catch up to that, he will be in big trouble.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Who I Think Has No Chance to Win</b></u><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_content_width/hash/4f/94/4f948a865cdeb590228a76639f54a199.jpg?itok=l8g1_Gqw" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_content_width/hash/4f/94/4f948a865cdeb590228a76639f54a199.jpg?itok=l8g1_Gqw" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Rupert</b> - A lot of people might hate me for this, but even Jeff won't deny in the TV Guide Network special that he does not believe Rupert can win again (even in his fourth run). It's a different scenario with Boston Rob wherein he became more strategic and sharper as a player with every stint. With Rupert, it seems to work in reverse. His poor performance at the Heroes vs Villains was dismal, to say the least. I don't even get why they even invited him back because I thought for sure he's done with Survivor.<br />
<br />
<b>Colton</b> - Duh. <br />
<br />
<b>Kat</b> - She's fun and bubbly, but unfortunately these aren't characteristics that merit a win in this game. Even when she does improve her game from last time, I am not sure if she can convince a jury to respect her game. <br />
<br />
What did you think of my picks? Let's compare notes by sharing your picks in the comments section.fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-65964462034239635972013-09-09T02:16:00.000-07:002013-09-09T02:16:30.710-07:00Survivor Blood vs Water: Behind-The-Scenes of First Immunity ChallengeIt is a little over a week until the premiere episode of <b>Survivor: Blood vs Water</b>. As the 27th season of the longest-running reality TV show, Survivor strives for novelty by introducing <span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>lots of new twists</b></span> to the game. One of the most notable new twist would be the return of Redemption Island, which most Survivor fans have a love-hate relationship with. Nonetheless, Jeff Probst and the show producers promise that there will be more layers to the Redemption Island twist to further complicate the game.<br />
<br />
But with the premiere episode of each new season, the first immunity challenge is probably the most awaited. Castaways work hard to win the first challenge to ensure that they do not end up in the tribe that goes to tribal council first.<br />
<br />
This season's first immunity challenge is scheduled to take place on Day Three. The challenge goes like this:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQxBecXNhJWmYghkWlH5SkfIKpSNobMjRHlJaaq_CnMMiVw9sT2hmhXaWUQ8TaV06_QQ2t6RnTXAot-IBinDpxmyd-oZRkw2ruYo22OnXptfmwAZriPqgnixQ-4UD68Jmc_5arLUc-Zn7b/s1600/1st+IC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="627" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQxBecXNhJWmYghkWlH5SkfIKpSNobMjRHlJaaq_CnMMiVw9sT2hmhXaWUQ8TaV06_QQ2t6RnTXAot-IBinDpxmyd-oZRkw2ruYo22OnXptfmwAZriPqgnixQ-4UD68Jmc_5arLUc-Zn7b/s640/1st+IC.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: Xfinity TV Blog</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Six members will start off the challenge by sprinting to the beach and overcome a series of obstacles (net, rolling logs, platform with a stack of crates). Once they successfully navigate these obstacles, the castaways must make their way back to the water and towards the tribal boat. One of the six tribe members need to swim down to release the boat that is tied to a buoy and then row it back to the shore while collecting a chest containing puzzle pieces on their way back. When they reach the shore, the tribe must crack the chest open in order to retrieve the puzzle pieces. Three other tribe members will take those pieces to form a puzzle wheel. The first tribe to build the puzzle wheel must use it to raise a flag and win immunity for their tribe.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://xfinity.comcast.net/blogs/tv/files/2013/09/wheelpuzzle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://xfinity.comcast.net/blogs/tv/files/2013/09/wheelpuzzle.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final puzzle station (image courtesy of Xfinity TV Blog)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Feeling fired up for the first immunity challenge yet? Don't miss the 90-minute premiere on September 18!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><u><b>Disclaimer</b></u>: Photos and details courtesy of <a href="http://xfinity.comcast.net/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>Xfinity TV Blog</b></span></a></span>fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-52277769536579563562013-08-29T09:00:00.000-07:002013-08-28T23:18:12.200-07:00Meet The Cast: Tyson & Rachel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0_b159XNLSwd2qdWI66pfvEvA9_1X9JVu7UKocrTlcfJhdl3YE6FzqivtFk-E2PQ7kC6VFnN4tdxCym_L5eQxzmLMMCsrLh9HsD5YTsLWDjDpaNOnlCuV_4dPhIkSSI1fLGkKFOQxFbCX/s1600/survivor-s27-tyson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0_b159XNLSwd2qdWI66pfvEvA9_1X9JVu7UKocrTlcfJhdl3YE6FzqivtFk-E2PQ7kC6VFnN4tdxCym_L5eQxzmLMMCsrLh9HsD5YTsLWDjDpaNOnlCuV_4dPhIkSSI1fLGkKFOQxFbCX/s400/survivor-s27-tyson.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Tyson is one of the most animated characters in the over 10 years of Survivor history. Indeed, he is full of himself, but in a funny way. He treated us to his witty, unforgettable, and always funny one-liners when he first appeared in Survivor: Tocantins. But being viewed as a threat, he eventually got voted off to become the member of the jury that handed JT the million dollars in his first season.<br />
<br />
On Tyson's second appearance in Survivor, he did not even make it to the merge. He figured in one of the most talked about tribal councils in Survivor history wherein he was swayed by Russell to change up his vote, which ended up in him going home instead of Parvati or Russell (the two with whom the Villains' majority alliance had split their votes on that time). Some would even go as far as calling it the dumbest moves in Survivor history. Whether you agree or not, one thing is for sure: it's always fun to watch Tyson!<br />
<br />
What kind of antics will Tyson be bringing this time? Will his girlfriend Rachel be able to keep up? Get some insights into their gameplay coming into the game with this interview video with Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly correspondent for Survivor:<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/MSpppU6hOiE" width="640"></iframe></center>
<br />
Do you think Tyson or Rachel will go to the end this time?fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-10009644506359678042013-08-28T22:45:00.000-07:002013-08-29T08:03:48.002-07:00Meet the Cast: Candice & John<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinDhq5jtsUjoRO_cBMCFbU3aaCYENflzmpo5l8SPtiwN_KO6hHsnW-V4Jt0yAaeeg7uRx-W9JAuRn22Zs8cWOpQPOuUFrUDlPWYg_EsSvVLnqNPrzct4ret4a266dhwJisaWrkU57gfhLh/s1600/candice+and+john.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinDhq5jtsUjoRO_cBMCFbU3aaCYENflzmpo5l8SPtiwN_KO6hHsnW-V4Jt0yAaeeg7uRx-W9JAuRn22Zs8cWOpQPOuUFrUDlPWYg_EsSvVLnqNPrzct4ret4a266dhwJisaWrkU57gfhLh/s400/candice+and+john.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
In anticipation of the upcoming premier of <b>Survivor: Blood vs Water</b>, several press videos and interviews had been released to give fans a glimpse of the twists that are upon them with the new season. At the same time, it gives fans the opportunity to learn more about the castaways and their loved ones. Most of you, fans, are probably excited to get to know more of the loved ones, especially since we already know (at least, to some extent) what to expect from the returning castaways.<br />
<br />
Candice Woodcock-Cody is a third-time player. She first appeared in Survivor: Cook Islands wherein she is best known for her mutiny against the then-Aitu tribe to join her allies Parvati and Adam at the Raro tribe. She made her second appearance in Heroes vs Villains wherein she was part of the Heroes tribe that were decimated by the villains. When she turned on her own tribe mates to vote out Amanda, she was quickly voted off the next tribal council since her supposed new alliance did not trust her.<br />
<br />
Is third time the charm for Candice? It will be a completely different game this time because she is joined by her husband, John. You can learn more about the duo's strategy in this video of Candice and her husband John Cody in an interview on-set with Dalton Ross for Entertainment Weekly.<br />
<br />
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/N4U5g6-0phw" width="640"></iframe></center>
<br />
Stay tuned for other videos from other Survivor castaways and their loved ones.<br />
<br />
Which duo has emerged as your pre-game favorite in <b>Survivor: Blood vs Water</b>?fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-80228670900874184522013-08-22T23:11:00.000-07:002013-08-22T23:11:08.066-07:00Survivor Blood vs Water: New Cast and TwistsThe long wait is over. CBS has officially lifted the curtains on the cast list of the new season, 27th, for its long-running hit reality TV Show, Survivor. The new season will be dubbed as "<b>Survivor: Blood vs Water</b>" and will feature 10 returning players and 10 of their relatives/loved ones. The concept might seem obvious at first glance, judging by the tagline for this new season. But always have a knack for innovation, Jeff Probst and the show's producers apparently have more tricks under their sleeve.<br />
<br />
First off, let us meet the casts for Season 27, Survivor: Blood vs Water:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6SIQmUCXNJxpWgf8Mzq8fUJOGCD5R8eSOihcOKGaaY6ZnHI06t5klxpENX0e51Ucx8_dfTdb3tO8jQFftaWAx_nFF7B7t6XvyQHK9DHtzasFy8GvkQTRdsa4w2TRYO-ohM6Fr24uMUh-/s1600/bvw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6SIQmUCXNJxpWgf8Mzq8fUJOGCD5R8eSOihcOKGaaY6ZnHI06t5klxpENX0e51Ucx8_dfTdb3tO8jQFftaWAx_nFF7B7t6XvyQHK9DHtzasFy8GvkQTRdsa4w2TRYO-ohM6Fr24uMUh-/s1600/bvw.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
1. <b>Rupert Boneham</b> (Survivor Pearl Islands, Survivor: All-Stars & Survivor: Heroes vs Villains) and wife <b>Laura</b><br />
<br />
2. <b>Tina Wesson</b> (Survivor: Australian Outback winner) and daughter <b>Katie</b><br />
3. <b>Aras Baskauskas</b> (Survivor: Exile Island winner) and brother <b>Vytas</b><br />
4. <b>Kat Edorsson</b> (Survivor: One World) and boyfriend <b>Hayden</b> Moss<br />
5. <b>Monica Culpepper </b>(Survivor: One World) and husband <b>Brad</b> Culpepper<br />
6. <b>Colton Cumbie</b> (Survivor: One World) and boyfriend <b>Caleb</b> Bankston<br />
7. <b>Gervase Peterson</b> (Survivor: Borneo) and niece <b>Marissa</b><br />
8. <b>Tyson Apostol</b> (Survivor: Tocantins and Survivor: Heroes vs Villains) and girlfriend <b>Rachel</b><br />
9. <b>Laura Morett</b> (Survivor: Samoa) and daughter<b> Ciera</b><br />
10. <b>Candice Woodcock-Cody</b> (Survivor: Cook Islands and Survivor: Heroes vs Villains) and husband <b>John</b><br />
<br />
Jeff Probst also reveals that several twists, both old and new, will be incorporated into the show's 27th installment. One of them is the return of the Redemption Island twist. This means that castaways that are voted off do not automatically go home. Instead, they will be exiled into a separate island wherein they will await another castaway to join them and compete in a head-to-head duel.<br />
<br />
But Redemption Island is not like before - the loved ones twist brings forth another layer of complication into the game. If the castaways would want to, they can opt to trade spots with their loved ones such that they go to Redemption Island instead. According to Jeff, this is their way of experimenting how far would these castaways go when it comes to separating strategy from personal relationships. Or would it matter?<br />
<br />
No word yet on other notable twists used in past seasons such as the hidden immunity idol. Guess we'll find out during the premier. <br />
<br />
CBS has also announced that the new season will have a 90-minute premier telecast on September 18, Wednesday. fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-43692515453427444072013-07-19T02:23:00.000-07:002013-07-19T02:23:13.510-07:00Survivor Blood vs Water: Location Info<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh86cV7ixxpryXkKLuYtOUsfrWdOkcmEBpAxbURyKlFsfN7b-LcXT63nk1usz7CR1cKcoMlMyrSEvFrdFZz3EdNSeapM45Sz710zvclkTfmbERJFmPY6EaBdugTFqbbIj8lTAY4MLxHZiVy/s1600/bloodvswater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh86cV7ixxpryXkKLuYtOUsfrWdOkcmEBpAxbURyKlFsfN7b-LcXT63nk1usz7CR1cKcoMlMyrSEvFrdFZz3EdNSeapM45Sz710zvclkTfmbERJFmPY6EaBdugTFqbbIj8lTAY4MLxHZiVy/s1600/bloodvswater.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: survivorfever.net</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
CBS recently announced that The 27th season of the long-running reality TV show will have a 90-minute premier on September 18, 2013. This means that fans have less than 2 months worth of wait before the new season premiers.<br />
<br />
Host Jeff Probst had already spilled some hints about what the new concept is about, but there is a less talked about aspect of this new season - the location. This season, Survivor will make a return (for the third consecutive time) to the Philippines. But instead of filming in Caramoan Islands where seasons 25 and 26 were filmed, they will be transferring to a new, equally exotic locale - Palaui Island.<br />
<br />
This particular island is located at the northernmost point of the Philippines' Luzon Islands. This island is known for its picturesque, untamed beauty with dramatic rock cliffs, scenic meadows and stunning beaches. Hence, it is the perfect setting for the next installment of Survivor, which promises to be as beautiful as the Caramoan Islands.<br />
<br />
To see for yourself, here is a photo dump of the scenery at Palaui Islands:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiraW5EwyKB4etrpA4UNHkXxNfGTwXzSmG94sxIE-74itGVN9sL3U4cc4kNICDH2Cb2e4Eww8eTqNR2zZkf4RW4rtish-72wbGGI8hBSwxIMVTAykSoyThdS56VkKMNQwXyFsDVEeMaMGl/s1600/palaui+island.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiraW5EwyKB4etrpA4UNHkXxNfGTwXzSmG94sxIE-74itGVN9sL3U4cc4kNICDH2Cb2e4Eww8eTqNR2zZkf4RW4rtish-72wbGGI8hBSwxIMVTAykSoyThdS56VkKMNQwXyFsDVEeMaMGl/s640/palaui+island.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Are you watching the new season of Survivor Blood vs Water? Be sure to vote in the poll!fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-78047799910172721682013-07-01T02:46:00.000-07:002013-07-01T02:46:16.222-07:00My Top 10 Survivor Hunks<div style="text-align: center;">
In 26 seasons, there had been plenty of Survivor hunks that have graced the show. I, myself, am not going to deny the fact that I fell for these Survivor hunks and often picked the young, hot guys as my bets on the show (no wonder I haven't had my pick win the whole thing until Denise came along). Seriously, though, I felt that if Malcolm had gone all the way that he would've won the Philippines. Ha! Okay, that is a case for another blog post. I am here to present to you 10 of my favorite hunks of all time.<br />
<br />
I just want to make it clear right off the bat that except for maybe the Top 3, this list is done in random. It's difficult to create a chronological list because there is no such thing as a definitive list of requirements for making it here. Of course, the physical aspect is the most obvious, but that isn't my sole criteria for including the men on this list. I also take into account their competitiveness in challenges (major plus points!!), strategic gameplay, and social charm. See we have the same picks...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
10. <b>Gabriel Cade</b> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2K4N7NY54INk4SEmwZk6e34DjY5zXe868c9mExudwfduxOlZdGSdMJqzlfxcOzO_zHHP_hjjimgN_d7RyA0kvV12fWpoC9ZmilDSjFM4DxLwBVHm2nRx8bT6CCHNth41NIM8rZHgVVeu1/s270/gabe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2K4N7NY54INk4SEmwZk6e34DjY5zXe868c9mExudwfduxOlZdGSdMJqzlfxcOzO_zHHP_hjjimgN_d7RyA0kvV12fWpoC9ZmilDSjFM4DxLwBVHm2nRx8bT6CCHNth41NIM8rZHgVVeu1/s320/gabe.jpg" width="213" /></a><a href="http://img2-2.timeinc.net/ew/dynamic/imgs/020321/144116__gabriel_cade_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img2-2.timeinc.net/ew/dynamic/imgs/020321/144116__gabriel_cade_l.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
I know, I know. Most of you would probably be surprised to see me pick
him and even include Gabe in this list (especially in a season that
featured Boston Rob for the first time). But his curly blond hair,
athleticism in challenges and nerdy demeanor appealed to me. He is no
doubt a favorite of mine from Rotu - the moment they voted him off, Rotu
self-destructed. Thank you John Caroll for that! Sarcasm aside, his
charm is undeniable and he has a positive attitude about him that I'm
sure made him a favorite among girls, too.<br />
<br />
9. <b>Jed Hildebrand</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.womensunitedonline.com/gallery/top_10_hottest_male_survivors_jed_hildebrand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://cdn.womensunitedonline.com/gallery/top_10_hottest_male_survivors_jed_hildebrand.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
<br />
Another surprising entry, Jed is the soft spoken and athletic guy from Sook Jai who got voted off early because he just did not click with his tribe. He was amazing in challenges, though, even managing to help give Sook Jai it's first team immunity win in Thailand after he overtook Ghandia in the slide puzzle stage of the competition. He was also smart but his lack of social adaptability ended up being his downfall.<br />
<br />
8. <b>Ben Henry</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRk4cENz1XQFWrpP87f9tMY9pMrzKlMHmiJvALfFLWunNA9o2r9" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRk4cENz1XQFWrpP87f9tMY9pMrzKlMHmiJvALfFLWunNA9o2r9" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Not a big fan of this season. In my opinion, it was one of the worst. Two quitters. Sucky medallion of power twist. And, young vs old? Seriously? Thankfully, Benry was there to give me some consolation.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7. <b>Brendan Synnott </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media.insidepulse.com/zones/tv/uploads/2009/04/survivor_tocantins_brendan-finds-idol1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://media.insidepulse.com/zones/tv/uploads/2009/04/survivor_tocantins_brendan-finds-idol1.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
<br />
There is nothing more attractive than a man who is confident in his own skin. Brendan is clearly a self-made man, accomplished in real life. Thus, him coming into Survivor makes him even more attractive in my eyes because it is indicative of his competitive and adventurous nature going into Survivor knowing that he clearly does not need the money. But if not for an alliance blunder, I could definitely have seen Brendan as a huge threat to go far in, or even win, the game (with the right set of people by his side). Too bad. Still hoping to see him play again.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
6. <b>Edgardo Rivera</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120602025324/survivor/images/thumb/7/78/Edgardo_Ravu.jpg/182px-Edgardo_Ravu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120602025324/survivor/images/thumb/7/78/Edgardo_Ravu.jpg/182px-Edgardo_Ravu.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Edgardo caught my eye in Fiji, which I thought was one of the most underrated seasons overshadowed by a ridiculous twist to the game. Nonetheless, Edgardo has been one of my favorite hunks to appear on the show. And yet, the best thing about him is that he isn't just about the looks - he also got some brains. I also believe that his was one of the best blindsides the game has ever seen! It was very well played though I would be lying if I said that I was not slightly mad that it came at the expense of Edgardo. <br />
<br />
5. <b>Jay Byars</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m06b8irqna1qg22hlo1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m06b8irqna1qg22hlo1_1280.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
Do I need to explain myself? Save for his annoying voice, Jay was clearly the hottest male in his season. He was also a strong competitor in challenges and even ended up winning one immunity challenge that featured probably the most difficult puzzle I've ever seen on the show! <br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. <b>Colby Donaldson</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://survivoroz.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/455164-colby_donaldson_l_thumb.jpg?w=364&h=484" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://survivoroz.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/455164-colby_donaldson_l_thumb.jpg?w=364&h=484" width="240" /></a><a href="http://survivorhunks.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/colby-donaldson7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://survivorhunks.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/colby-donaldson7.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
To be clear, Colby slid down my list after consistently holding the number two spot for a long time because his past few appearances in Survivor has been less than stellar. But his good looks and Southern charm are undeniable. <br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. <b>John Kenney</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-DBkA6KIQ1U0dVtHO5wJDbF8mZNO2n-jueyMhOsTfecdXyTXwnwE5H3vrpPnzJ0l8fw5M6276PJkdZ8DqoGUcDpNhbX6m5Y58eyPthJzOVR1MqAcxldzXh4byw5aUJziVaK9SSvtLhWD/s1600/kenney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio-DBkA6KIQ1U0dVtHO5wJDbF8mZNO2n-jueyMhOsTfecdXyTXwnwE5H3vrpPnzJ0l8fw5M6276PJkdZ8DqoGUcDpNhbX6m5Y58eyPthJzOVR1MqAcxldzXh4byw5aUJziVaK9SSvtLhWD/s400/kenney.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Sure, Vanuatu was one of those regarded as a forgettable season, yet it also has some of the hottest men that Survivor has seen. Take John Kenney for instance. I could watch the first half of this season for John K alone. He was the youngest of their tribe, all men, but it was an unfortunate twist in the game for him considering that the older men got intimidated by their looks and athleticism that they ended up forging an alliance to take out the younger men one by one. A twist saved John K's butt, albeit only momentarily, because he stayed on for a bit longer but did not make it to the merge. The season basically ended for me right there, too. Sniff sniff.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. <b>Malcolm Freberg</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MaL8UyFOMxJuVDCdCN9G-wFUQP4mu0V7NCsBA9SlKg0kh9cxufr1mx77MsOIp_bMU7Bqo9h7e6g0Ab3q6J15V0WOQxnoPcppOek8wjNueW1sIC6nVOV4JI9ZxAZ-SHwWvcifcapmMJbr/s1600/freberg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MaL8UyFOMxJuVDCdCN9G-wFUQP4mu0V7NCsBA9SlKg0kh9cxufr1mx77MsOIp_bMU7Bqo9h7e6g0Ab3q6J15V0WOQxnoPcppOek8wjNueW1sIC6nVOV4JI9ZxAZ-SHwWvcifcapmMJbr/s400/freberg.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I can't believe it took 25 seasons for someone like Malcolm to come onto the show. But it is totally worth the wait. Malcolm is almost the symbol of the perfect Survivor player = physically competitive, great at puzzles, smart and strategic, and a social charmer. Indeed, he is the complete package! But for me, the best thing about Malcolm is his million dollar smile and of course his iconic long locks! No one can pull off this look but him. And that is primarily what sets him apart! Only he has managed to bump Colby and John K off of the top two spots on my list.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. <b>Bobby Jon Drinkard</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7GtN2M-L6kBRanZFuqKiXumg8N92RFqVlocHJzQgIF03ZQeii8GasxszdxAD2iTCru4DMOPo9QPiIum4Ma3BRpbwsiFgxn1ZiGkvOQzZTV9nq7ZI5BQNsBnb0yyhmT7zM-Bkc3wunj8S/s1600/drinkard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="371" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7GtN2M-L6kBRanZFuqKiXumg8N92RFqVlocHJzQgIF03ZQeii8GasxszdxAD2iTCru4DMOPo9QPiIum4Ma3BRpbwsiFgxn1ZiGkvOQzZTV9nq7ZI5BQNsBnb0yyhmT7zM-Bkc3wunj8S/s400/drinkard.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Despite all of the new hotties that have invaded the Survivor screen in recent years, Bobby Jon Drinkard has remained firm on the top of my list. If you're asking why, you HAVE to be blind not to see. He first captured my heart in Palau wherein his dysfunctional Ulong tribe went through some of the worst adversities in Survivor history (only to be outdone by Matsing 15 seasons later). But despite of it all, he managed to handle himself with grace, give his 200% at every challenge, and being the true blue Southern gentleman that he is. When Palau ended, I was in denial. I still could not fathom the thought of watching Survivor without Bobby Jon. Then, Guatemala premiered and it was revealed that he was returning with Stephenie. It was the best moment of my life. He needed that redemption. And even though he hadn't won, and I felt that he was so soft natured to excel in this cutthroat game, I'm sure he has won over the hearts of many, not just me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Check back again as I will be coming up with another list, this time with the Survivor female castaways! </div>
fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-21673535544105871462013-06-03T09:30:00.000-07:002013-06-03T09:30:00.232-07:00My Top 10 Favorite Challenges of All-TimeSurvivor has been on air for more than a decade now. Season 26 just wrapped up and a couple of new ones had been confirmed on the horizon (in fact, Jeff is somewhere in the Philippine Islands filming the 27th installment of the Reality TV show franchise!). There are a few things that has helped the show prove to be a success such as the strategy, the breathtaking locales, and the characters that are fun to watch! However, for me personally, the challenges are one of the things that have drawn me to watching Survivor. The intense competition that transpires when the castaways are put in situations wherein their physical and mental toughness are tested is undoubtedly a pleasure to watch.<br />
<br />
Over the years, I've made a mental note of some of my favorite challenges from seasons past. I love watching these challenges over and over again! I have TONS of them but I have narrowed down the Top 10. You can check them out below and see just how exciting these challenges are for yourself:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
10. <b>Survivor Borneo Episode 2 Immunity Challenge</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
This challenge is a favorite of mine because it was the first time they did this kind of gross eating challenge, which eventually ended up being a classic. What I love about this challenge is that it is an equalizer. It requires no brawns or brains. It is all about the mental power! Gervase had a tough time, but he did end up eating the grub although he was outplayed by Stacy at the Final round to win it for Tagi!<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='500' height='320' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/aR3HT2XGaKw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
9. <b>Survivor Marquesas Episode 6 Reward Challenge</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
I can clearly remember this episode and why I loved this challenge. During Episode 4 of Survivor Marquesas, the episode after Hunter got voted off, the tribal switch took place. In an effort to shake things up as Maraamu was on the face of being decimated, the newly formed tribes got even more lopsided. In this particular challenge, to show you the disparity of the competition, a young and fit Boston Rob had to race through the jungle against Paschal during the first leg of the competition. Good thing, Gina and Kathy did an excellent job at the rowing portion of the competition to edge out a more athletic Rotu (though not one without some controversy as Rotu was initially proclaimed winner but they broke some challenge rules, causing Jeff to change his call for winner).<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/8zNZLq2QTWk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
8. <b>Survivor Vanuatu Episode 5 Reward Challenge</b> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is the first reward challenge since the Men vs Women tribe had been switched up. The reason why this challenge stuck out for me is purely because of the difficulty of the task. It is simple by design by difficult in execution. Castaways had to dive down for up to 50 feet or more in depth in order to retrieve a ring colored in their tribe flag that is tied to a rope that is stretches out to the bottom of the ocean floor. If you're a true Survivor fan, you know which challenge I'm talking about. And you know what they get for such a difficult challenge? Pringles and beer!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7. <b>Survivor Pearl Islands Episode 6 Immunity Challenge</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
This challenge is a personal favorite of mine because not only was the first time that they had done it, but it was also the first win for Morgan after being nearly trumped by Drake in the competition. Andrew Savage, who literally carried his team to victory after this challenge, was fired up to win it for Morgan after Johnny Fairplay had previously told them that Drake had thrown the previous immunity challenge in order to vote off Burton. Savage was literally in tears when the challenge is over. <br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6. <b>Survivor Africa Episode 1 Immunity Challenge</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
The main reason why this challenge made it into my favorite challenge list is merely because this season had several spectacular challenges in what I thought was one of the most difficult editions EVER! The best thing about this challenge is that it requires total team work in order to succeed. Plus, the challenge production utilized the natural landscapes and features of the land. If you're not convinced how difficult this challenge is, watch for yourself, and see Diane nearly collapse due to exhaustion. That's brutal!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/V6_cZ3oj1Co/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/V6_cZ3oj1Co&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/V6_cZ3oj1Co&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5. <b>Survivor Australian Outback Episode 2 Reward Challenge </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's another tough one... The earlier seasons of Survivor seemed to make full use of the locale's natural landscapes in their challenge conceptualization, which also explains I have a lot of favorites from the old-school Survivor. In this particular challenge, castaways had to jump off a steep cliff and swim to a buoy one at a time. Now that's some adrenaline rush right there! Watch the video for yourself to see how exciting this is!<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/_hGye7CwJ3I" width="640"></iframe>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. <b>Survivor Heroes vs Villains Episode 2 Immunity Challenge</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
This challenge has two elements - brawns and brains. The first stage involves the use of brawns as tribemates had to push a large crate back to their starting mat. Then, there is a puzzle on the latter stage that requires brains, obviously. There is also a teamwork aspect to it because the crates are heavy, it requires nearly all tribe members to move the crates (also serving as the puzzle piece) around to build the puzzle. This challenge was originally done in Survivor: Tocantins and then just recently in Caramoan; however, this is my top pick because it is most competitive. This is also the controversial animosity between Stephenie and James started from.</div>
<center>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1Iw45frrtVM" width="640"></iframe></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. <b>Survivor Palau: Episode 3 Reward Challenge</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Water challenges are my weakness. But wrestling challenges on water? Even better. Palau had some really excellent challenges because probably half were done on water. And this one stands out for me because it was pure adrenaline rush even while I was watching on my couch. <br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/K6_CTghaie8/0.jpg" height="640" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/K6_CTghaie8&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="500" height="400" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/K6_CTghaie8&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. <b>Survivor Palau: Episode 3 Immunity Challenge</b> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
This is one of my favorite challenges of all time. They had done this again in several succeeding seasons and most recently in Caramoan. However, this is my most favorite run of this challenge because it was highly competitive. Can you tell that Palau is also one of my favorite seasons of all-time? Too bad, Jeff got injured before this challenge or else I'd think Koror would have a hard time beating Ulong on this one.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/9QGJoC-yuFM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. <b>Survivor Guatemala 11 Mile Hike Challenge on Episode 1</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQCljy3Pg7XH8oiyqM8oDx8zQS86Kdixj58sRFWgV4TVObxNmJ26rRpL5kyrNm-kYBxYnSc3Q1UuZZisIeID_CAn-x5o2-IS55mpF29i9VjIwaHgsWz6bmtmF__NSnn9fzbQ1cMSxGob04/s1600/050915_surv_hmed_6p.grid-6x2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQCljy3Pg7XH8oiyqM8oDx8zQS86Kdixj58sRFWgV4TVObxNmJ26rRpL5kyrNm-kYBxYnSc3Q1UuZZisIeID_CAn-x5o2-IS55mpF29i9VjIwaHgsWz6bmtmF__NSnn9fzbQ1cMSxGob04/s400/050915_surv_hmed_6p.grid-6x2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is, for me, hands down the best challenge that Survivor has ever had - and the toughest too! It requires no props or use of other equipment. It's just humans vs nature. The castaways had to endure over 12 hours of hike through a dense jungle that had even the toughest men during the season on their knees after. All it takes to survive and win this challenge is team work, persistence, and endurance. Nakum won this challenge and set the stage for what was going to be a physically tough season. Even Bobby Jon, who played in Palau a season before, said Palau was a piece of cake compared to the harsh elements of Guatemala.<br />
<br /></div>
What's your favorite challenge/s on Survivor?</div>
fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-80247971584059136782013-05-14T22:03:00.000-07:002013-05-14T22:03:09.330-07:00Survivor Caramoan: Deciphering the Finale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWFcB1JokX64UoU9FDqS5MnAoNQjLzqFvhwhxwZrUCC-9agQ9tHT-H0ZvhQ_dL-6PovwosU8mGHQPzrE-lYUGbdWLp3j_e-iTBcA13lpjpwIv8ORooehKlVek47SqZspUhxSRUevzSwaP9/s1600/winner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWFcB1JokX64UoU9FDqS5MnAoNQjLzqFvhwhxwZrUCC-9agQ9tHT-H0ZvhQ_dL-6PovwosU8mGHQPzrE-lYUGbdWLp3j_e-iTBcA13lpjpwIv8ORooehKlVek47SqZspUhxSRUevzSwaP9/s1600/winner.jpg" /></a></div>
My dry spell is over. I finally have a winning first pick in Survivor! For a die-hard Survivor fan, you'd think that I'd be better at choosing picks that are guaranteed to win. But who am I fooling? I easily fall for the hunky studs (*cough Bobby Jon, *cough Malcolm)! But I seriously thought I had it nailed last season with Malcolm since he is the ultimate combination of brains and brawns, and maybe a bit of charm that there wasn't a day since Malcolm first graced my TV screen that I didn't dream of him running away with the mill. But I digress, the star of this blog is supposed to be the newest winner - John Cochran! Cochran is the scrawny nerd who wrote papers on Survivor and I distinctively remembered asked Jeff during his first season to call him by his surname, just like he did with other Survivor greats. Jeff quipped to him, "Let's see if you earn it!". Fast forward to two years, here's a totally different Cochran who no longer just calls himself a "challenge beast" but also with the title Sole Survivor under his name.<br />
<br />
The road to getting there was never easy. Cochran figured in one of the most controversy-ridden, twist-befuddled season that Jeff hyped up before premiere as better than the Philippines edition. For someone who loved the Philippines enough to relegate it as one of the top 3 seasons ever, I held high expectations.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/survivor-caramoan-finale-ratings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://blog.zap2it.com/frominsidethebox/survivor-caramoan-finale-ratings.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Before the airing of the Finale episode, I had an inkling that Cochran had it in the bag. He had the advantage in jury votes in any given final 3 scenario. But I can't say I had some doubts lingering as the episode went by. This game seems to sneak up on you when you least expect it. And when you're complacent, it pulls the rug out of you. Just ask Andrea and Brenda. They got complacent and Cochran was smart enough to go after them because he knew either one of them would've given him a serious run for the money!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.rickey.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Survivor-Caramoan-Winner-Results-Finale-Live-Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://cdn.rickey.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Survivor-Caramoan-Winner-Results-Finale-Live-Blog.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The first big twist of the finale episode was Erik's medical emergency. When the clip was shown last week, I knew it had to be Erik! They were building up this storyline of him being weak and out of his senses, especially since the timing was odd and it seemed even forced given that he basically had zero confessionals for the most part. It's like the editors forgot about him and they realized that he will be medevaced in the coming episode so they had to integrate that into the previous episode so it does not come as an entire shock to the audience.<br />
<br />
The Erik situation gave Eddie a free pass to the Final Four. It's funny how Eddie thinks that if he can get to the finals that he has a shot at winning the million dollars. Who are you kidding, Eddie? I'm sure you're nice. But aside from flirting with any hot girl you can set your sights on and being bros with Malcolm and Reynold, you did nothing to merit a million dollar!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.rickey.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Survivor-Caramoan-Winner-Results-Finale-622x349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://cdn.rickey.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Survivor-Caramoan-Winner-Results-Finale-622x349.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The first challenge promised a reward that was going to prep the winner for the challenge that matters - the final immunity challenge. Kinda anticlimactic, huh? I actually did not like this concept when they first used it in the Philippines. Jeff told the castaways that the winner of that challenge won an advantage to the Final Immunity Challenge! Hear me out here: it creates a sense of guarantee of winning the next challenge. I also feel it's a bit anticlimactic in a sense that their focus is torn between the current challenge and the one up ahead, which is the more important one. I'm sure it was a move done by the producers after Erik left rather unexpectedly due to medical reasons, since this was clearly being setup as another immunity challenge. Then again, Cochran ended up winning his third individual challenge and gets an advantage heading into the final immunity challenge that could seal his fate in the Final 3.<br />
<br />
His advantage ended up being key to his final immunity win. I was expecting that the previous challenge would've worked more for a final immunity challenge than this win. Final immunity challenges typically require focus or endurance. This one was oddly similar to that same challenge that Malcolm won during the finale episode of Survivor: Philippines that earned him the advantage. But Cochran's advantage was huge! He struggled to figure out the puzzle early on such that Dawn ended up putting the first few pieces of her puzzle together. The competition might've kicked him into high gear as he ended up putting his puzzle pieces together quickly after he got the first one.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.neontommy.com/sites/default/files/users/user1000/Eddie%20Finale.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://www.neontommy.com/sites/default/files/users/user1000/Eddie%20Finale.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The Eddie vote at the Final Four tribal council was a feign attempt to make it seem as though Cochran will change things up. Earlier in the episode, we saw Cochran make a pact with Eddie about the Final 3 but we knew it was a defensive strategy on Cochran's part to secure his final three slot knowing that Eddie is the sole remaining threat to win immunity. And thus... the final three is Cochran, Sherri, and Dawn.<br />
<br />
They celebrate with a feast in the morning before the real deal begins. Cochran delivered what I believe was one of the best opening speeches at tribal council. He covered all the grounds - he pointed out that he wasn't the best strategists nor was he the most physically competitive (although it's hard to ignore the fact that he won the most individual challenges this season!). He also pointed a realistic element to his gameplay that helped get him far and showed that he's a real smart player - timing. According to Cochran, his success in the game can be relegated to the fact that he managed to strike at his opponents before he can be struck at and he owned it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/i/tim2/2013/05/12/jury13_610x407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/i/tim2/2013/05/12/jury13_610x407.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Dawn took a beating at the final tribal council with several of the jury members thinking that she used relationships to gain an advantage in the game. However, she raised an essential point that these relationships were the key to the success of his alliance with Cochran because if it weren't for those relationships she built, she wouldn't have been able to gather the information needed to make their next big move.<br />
<br />
Sherri, on the other hand, seemed to have been lost in the equation. The only memorable thing about her stint at the final tribal council would have to be her snide remark towards Erik who tried to ridicule her game and Eddie trying to make fun of her insistence that she got carried to the final 3.<br />
<br />
However, nothing could've been more unforgettable as the Brenda-Dawn moment. Still reeling from the Dawn betrayal, Brenda refreshed everyone's memory of the day when Dawn lost her retainer and she dove in the water to get it. In doing so, she asked Dawn to take out her retainer so everyone would see what she looked like that day. Brenda lost a bit of favor with me for that particular move. While majority of the jury understood the strategy involved with taking them out, she seemed to take it the hardest and made an unconscionable move by asking Dawn to take out her teeth. We all know she voted for Cochran anyway, so what's the point with that? Apparently, she wanted to humiliate Dawn. And I think she crossed the line there. And the worst part of all, Jeff Probst even pushed Dawn (on live TV at that!) to apologize for Brenda! For someone whose seen this game first-hand and witnessed worst betrayals and backstabbing, I don't think Jeff was in a place to push Dawn to apologize for voting someone out! That's just plain ridiculous.<br />
<br />
That moment, though, was only one of several awkward moments in what I thought was one of the worst reunion shows EVER! For someone whose seen all 26 seasons to date, it's saying a lot! After Cochran's announcement as the winner of Survivor Caramoan, the reunion show went downhill from there. Jeff had the decency to ask Dawn and Sherri for a short comment right before the reading of the votes. Little did we know that those were going to be Sherri's last words for the night!<br />
<br />
It was also starkly obvious that the pre-jury members weren't on-stage. I thought that this was the setup during the reading of the votes, but as the show went on it was slowly dawning on us that the pre-jurors weren't going to have a part on the show. The worst part is that not even their presence were acknowledged! I understood the reason behind this was to make it less obvious that Brandon wasn't there - I caught word that he was banned by CBS from attending the reunion show! But who cares about Brandon? I'm sure a huge percentage of the fans would be pleased to know that the CBS producers finally got back to their right senses and not invite Brandon back! But what they had done to the pre-jury members was a disservice to those people who, regardless of how long or short they stayed in the game, were critical part to the journey.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thumbnails.cbsig.net/CBS_Production_Entertainment_VMS/983/947/2013/05/13/30021699613/CBS_SURVIVOR_2615_CLIP3_IMAGE_thumb_640x360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://thumbnails.cbsig.net/CBS_Production_Entertainment_VMS/983/947/2013/05/13/30021699613/CBS_SURVIVOR_2615_CLIP3_IMAGE_thumb_640x360.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
While the pre-jury members were ignored, we got unnecessary airtime from Boston Rob (ugh), Richard, and Rudy, and some random girl. We know how great Boston Rob is and how Jeff Probst kisses the ground he walks on. But why not use that time instead to catch up on the Survivors that we haven't had much chance to see on the show? Do we really care about some stupid book that BRob is trying to promote?<br />
<br />
The revelation of the Player of the Season was probably my only personal consolation during the finale. Malcolm won the title and the $100,000 that goes with it! I think it was well deserved because he undeniably played big. Come on, Episode 10 tribal council was memorable mainly for Malcolm! But above all the charades, he played a strong game but it just did not work out for him as he did not have enough people to make his plan work!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.rickey.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Malcolm-Freberg-Survvor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://cdn.rickey.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Malcolm-Freberg-Survvor.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
In conclusion, this reunion show did not do the season justice. It wasn't my favorite season despite the fact that I am ultimately satisfied with the winner and was entertained for the most part, although I would gladly do without the Phillip and Shamar antics, as well as all the drama with Brandon early on. But the strategy and gameplay at the latter part helped to save what would have been a disappointing season. I hope this only applies to this season's reunion show because it would be an insult for CBS to exclude the people who were out before the merge like they did this time out.<br />
<br />
I'm sure most of you have an inkling as to what the next edition of Survivor is going to be, so I thought that teaser was pretty lame. What do you think of the concept for next season? As for me, it's something I'm not too excited about as with the Redemption Island concept, but this one might be worse. Share your thoughts below.fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-6929658478880460662013-05-11T09:16:00.000-07:002013-05-11T09:16:51.250-07:00Survivor Caramoan Finale PreviewFollowing the blindside of Brenda Lowe at the previous episode of the ongoing Survivor Caramoan season, the Final 5 head into the finale wherein viewers will be treated to over 2 hours of show followed by the reunion show. A part of me is glad that we can finally crown a winner to what has been an unpredictable and emotional roller coaster ride of a season, which holds true for fans as it did for the castaways who competed. There has been a lot of drama, memorable moments, crazy moves, blindsides, and so much more!<br />
<br />
But it comes down to the Final 5: <b>Eddie</b>, <b>Erik</b>, <b>Sherri</b>, <b>Dawn</b>, and <b>Cochran</b>. It's safe to say that these are the 5 that most people wouldn't have predicted to make it this far.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBO09TtZckS2WYbFmRL4gy4VPfMuykHzNMFYrC6xslO6g_kRs5c03E6HIFi0s8W3kIygLrUrRUS64yC5VDurl65xpI-DVwK9wwm7qAMt1V0KDUnTkEzsIENtLCKKlYoOxBGHatWIPtei7/s1600/survivor-caramoan-final-5-mothers-day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBO09TtZckS2WYbFmRL4gy4VPfMuykHzNMFYrC6xslO6g_kRs5c03E6HIFi0s8W3kIygLrUrRUS64yC5VDurl65xpI-DVwK9wwm7qAMt1V0KDUnTkEzsIENtLCKKlYoOxBGHatWIPtei7/s1600/survivor-caramoan-final-5-mothers-day.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image: blog.zap2it.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Eddie, for instance, was on the outs since Day 1. He fell on the wrong side of the numbers going in as their Cool Kids alliance was picked off one by one. Somehow, he managed to survive along with his buddy, Reynold. But he is the lone amigo standing and he continues to evade having his torch snuffed. For how long? We've yet to find out.<br />
<br />
Like Eddie, Erik also fell on the wrong side of the numbers after the first tribal council wherein he voted against Phillip. Erik eventually found his way back into the majority alliance and even earned a name under the Stealth R' Us crew. But his under-the-radar game has posed him as non-threat status and is slowly slipping into the finals again.<br />
<br />
Sherri is the other fan who had managed to drizzle their way into the majority alliance post-merge. She was out on the loop for a while since Shamar got voted off. Then, she got a new lease in life at the game after Phillip brought her into the Stealth R' Us alliance to the point that she earned the nickname Tenacity. But can she hang on longer to make it to the finals?<br />
<br />
Dawn is the emotional wreck this season. We've seen her breakdown at her previous season and things are no different this season. In fact, she probably holds the record for most breakdowns in one season... ever! But you can't deny that Dawn came into Survivor Caramoan with a different plan. She played hard and big! Case in point: taking out Brenda last episode because she was the biggest threat this deep into the game. Will that be enough to make her way into the finals and win?<br />
<br />
Cochran has shown the biggest improvement out of all the returning castaways this season. He was a self-deprecating, non-athletic, and socially awkward player who is a self-confessed Survivor nerd during his first season. Remember the guy who asked Jeff to call him Cochran, his surname, instead of his actual name, John? Seems like he's lived up to it because he certainly didn't last time. In this season, Cochran has even dubbed himself a challenge beast after winning two immunity challenges! Heck, not even Malcolm can get one this season!<br />
<br />
Of the final five, who do you think has the best chance to win? Be sure to comment your answers below and let's discuss!fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-87676256151075968972013-05-09T21:14:00.000-07:002013-05-09T21:14:25.194-07:00Survivor Caramoan Episode 13: "Likability is a Liability"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz9BzjJf1FdM02E8c6v62ixFbtptye8L19YWMCKGZAx0xnE_xSXCX4cVY1ofwczCn7yZC3jexhP1g8YLEj1P3HPePxdquPTNK-tYVcxWSx3Ot_mpLIylV56LvhMeHN7aZzWAjiP88sc_D0/s1600/brenda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz9BzjJf1FdM02E8c6v62ixFbtptye8L19YWMCKGZAx0xnE_xSXCX4cVY1ofwczCn7yZC3jexhP1g8YLEj1P3HPePxdquPTNK-tYVcxWSx3Ot_mpLIylV56LvhMeHN7aZzWAjiP88sc_D0/s400/brenda.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Episode 13 was the turning point in the game because the next step is going to be the grand finale. And what better way to segue into the Final 5 than with a cruel blindside, right? I can't say we've had more tears in one episode for years, even beating Lisa's breakdown last season and her family visit! This episode is also much talked about in the social media sphere with fans and castaways alike having mixed emotions about what just happened.<br />
<br />
Voting out Brenda was, as Cochran dubbed it, a "smart move" because the easy one wasn't, in reference to the Eddie vote. This episode had an uncharacteristically huge airtime for Brenda, which hinted that something was up as she had basically zero (or limited) airtime and confessionals for majority of the season. But the remainder of her alliance (mainly the trio that voted her off) stand firm in their decision to blindside Brenda as being a strong strategic move because of Brenda's actions that might have earned her goodwill, not just among the players left in the game but also with the jurors. But before we delve deeper into that, let's go back to the start of this episode...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_content_width/hash/36/6a/366a11529357e14a6085543d11c8c862.JPG?itok=Ev5v_5i8" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_content_width/hash/36/6a/366a11529357e14a6085543d11c8c862.JPG?itok=Ev5v_5i8" /></a></div>
<br />
The family visit is always an exciting time in the game. It's Day 35. Aside from the starvation and the harsh elements, there is probably one other thing that is beating the player's down - missing their loved ones. Seeing familiar faces of fathers, mothers, husbands, and brothers is enough to bring your spirit back up. It did the same for Erik! He admitted to being at the end of his rope but seeing his brother's video gave him the rejuvenation he needed.<br />
<br />
This season also set another historic moment with Jeff tearing up for the first time in 26 seasons! The father-daughter connection must've rigged into his heart, especially knowing that Jeff just recently had a daughter. He must've been really touched as I also felt the same witnessing Brenda talk to his father. Then, the rest of the loved ones came out and you can't deny, and I am speaking as a fan of the show for years, that this is one of the most anticipated moments too! Suddenly, you get to see these cunning people as humans, not as players that are cold-blooded and heartless. Seeing those emotions in Cochran's eyes were touching. My favorite moment was when Cochran and his mom came in last at the challenge and Jeff attempted to make a comment, but Cochran cut him off saying, "Don't say anything about my mom!". Ha!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.rickey.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Survivor-Caramoan-Fans-vs.-Favorites-Episode-13-2013-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.rickey.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Survivor-Caramoan-Fans-vs.-Favorites-Episode-13-2013-6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Brenda ended up winning the reward with his dad and invited Dawn to enjoy the reward at a floating backyard BBQ party. However, the rapid swift of emotions in Survivor is no longer alien. Just as they were rejoicing at the opportunity to spend some time with their loved ones and get some food, a sickening twist came right before Brenda's face as there is another set of loved ones waiting to spend time with the castaways. But here's the cruel twist: she can choose to go to the reward and see her second loved one, along with Dawn's, or give it up so the remaining four can enjoy theirs. Brenda ended up giving her reward which ended in the other four castaways giving Brenda kisses and hugs, while Dawn was bewildered.<br />
<br />
Brenda put on a brave face about it, even though her stomach wasn't agreeing with her, as she claimed. But Dawn was more upset about it. She was crying, slamming bamboos against the shelter, and crying some more... She didn't even show a slight hint of gratitude for Brenda to have picked her for the reward, even though they didn't get to enjoy it. Just to know that she picked you was something to be grateful for. And I felt like Brenda should've been more upset because she won it, not you, crybaby.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_content_width/hash/ae/5c/ae5c8950a3bfd0fefc5daf515851b034.JPG?itok=teT47XLz" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_content_width/hash/ae/5c/ae5c8950a3bfd0fefc5daf515851b034.JPG?itok=teT47XLz" /></a></div>
<br />
If that's not enough favor, Brenda felt the need to appease Dawn during the immunity challenge. The goal is to hold on to a rope behind your back as a pulley will lower you down at an angle to the water. The men go down first and it was pointed out more than once during the challenge that Eddie had to win or he'll be going home. When it was only Brenda and Dawn left, they attempted to strike a deal. But Brenda refused because she wanted to "challenge herself", cited Dawn. No deal was made but Brenda ended up jumping in before Dawn. That was a good ploy by Brenda in terms of trying to win back Dawn's favor. She wanted to give the immunity to Dawn but did not let her know that she intended to jump in because she wanted her to be happy and feel good about herself. Again, instead of feeling grateful for it, she returned to camp and started plotting her move to blindside Brenda.<br />
<br />
<i><b>"Likability is a liability."</b></i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/935631_10151429536250922_1989350384_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/935631_10151429536250922_1989350384_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Cochran cited how Brenda is the most liked person in the island right now after she allowed them to spend time with their loved ones. This puts Cochran into full gear as he discusses with Dawn and Sherri the possibility of getting rid of Brenda when she least expects it. At this point, if you were Brenda, probably the decision to jump off wasn't smart at all. It is just one of a series of decisions she made in this episode that are adding up to the reasons to vote her off. As she earlier claimed, winning in Survivor is always a double-edged sword but having personal immunity is something that you'd be too dumb to give up. It ended up being a million dollar challenge for her!<br />
<br />
Cochran's strategic maneuvering is also to be commended here. Early in the episode, as Dawn and Brenda discuss the next possible threat to be voted off, she cited Cochran. I surely expected more of it to factor into the episode but it seemed to have been lost in the daze and confusion of the loved ones visit. It requires masterful manipulation for Cochran to divert any attention off of him while everything of that is dumped into Brenda, at least in this particular episode. I also give props to Cochran for how he presented the Brenda vote to them as an option rather than a desperate move behind his personal vendetta to get rid of an end-game threat.<br />
<br />
Tribal council was rather short this episode. Eddie seemed to bid his farewell, citing that this could be his final rodeo. But when the votes were revealed and Brenda got the majority, she left them with a message that put all of the remaining castaways, even the jury, speechless. As Jeff snuffed her torch, she went back a last time and tell them how much she was hurting for the blindside. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHHMp8m76TULZEpAfPM93IkenDU0bXwb33GIyQFKc6tgU1TosIvjy9vaGwxZlE3mYDg1FsG5pjlOv6ka4mC-g3gJqhGJi5Ycf8W0xR66lkfQl-SQy7w9d2l8o7qnj_0XPJEtJZhTYMXQ31/s1600/brenda+hurts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHHMp8m76TULZEpAfPM93IkenDU0bXwb33GIyQFKc6tgU1TosIvjy9vaGwxZlE3mYDg1FsG5pjlOv6ka4mC-g3gJqhGJi5Ycf8W0xR66lkfQl-SQy7w9d2l8o7qnj_0XPJEtJZhTYMXQ31/s400/brenda+hurts.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The human relationships and the bonds they formed complicate the game and what makes Survivor interesting all these years. Seeing Brenda break down like that is a testament to how real the emotions are involved here. I've been reading a lot of tweets from fans and former castaways about this episode and I've never heard fans been so vocal in the past. If anything, I think that Dawn lost a lot of favor from the jury, just as she did with the fans.<br />
<br />What did you think of the blindside? Was it the right move to get rid of Brenda?fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-8957493444492609372013-05-06T15:06:00.000-07:002013-05-06T15:06:22.115-07:00Survivor Caramoan Episode 12: The Beginning of the End<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXDYibaT1z2QQ01AqQQg2p2LJCExTcTGx59ULxACzE6Bv5TKMXvNKXrtJUbAuZJ-EeJIrQ7EkEHxhY6GrQG51JK6y3UKg6In2MKZOfgUq7EXpeeEpp4ZXqX0l8D4f2OmgyblgAZ8Fn75r9/s1600/epi12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXDYibaT1z2QQ01AqQQg2p2LJCExTcTGx59ULxACzE6Bv5TKMXvNKXrtJUbAuZJ-EeJIrQ7EkEHxhY6GrQG51JK6y3UKg6In2MKZOfgUq7EXpeeEpp4ZXqX0l8D4f2OmgyblgAZ8Fn75r9/s400/epi12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The title episode for this week's Survivor cannot be more fitting - we are approaching the conclusion of this season and this also signals the start of the destruction of the tight alliance of Stealth R' Us. For the most part, Andrea, Dawn, and Cochran had been in the steering wheel, especially after Phillip left the game. But with the final 3 dawning on them, we suspected that a shift in the game is going to take place soon.<br />
<br />
The episode featured two tribal councils in one episode. The first half was rather predictable and went by fast! Reynold and Eddie congratulate themselves for staying and while they were saddened by the fact that Malcolm was gone (meaning, their plan on turning the game around didn't pull through), the fact that they're still IN the game means they're still in the running. Reynold also points out something that is important - they are two guaranteed votes for anyone in the majority alliance looking to make a big move. However, Reynold's fate in the game has been clearly out in the open - he needs to wear the immunity necklace after the first immunity challenge or he's a goner.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://realityrewind.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Survivor-Caramoan-2013-Episode-12-480x315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://realityrewind.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Survivor-Caramoan-2013-Episode-12-480x315.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
And speaking of the first immunity challenge, it was a variation of the final immunity challenge on Pearl Islands wherein castaways had to balance themselves in a floating platform. Wind and wave both played a critical factor in the success of this challenge. I knew right there and then that the women had a better shot at winning this (smaller feet and women are generally better at balancing than men). But in hindsight, I wanted Reynold to win in order to shake things up. And c'mon, you have to feel bad for the guy. Since Day 1, nothing had worked out for him in this game!<br />
<br />
But Eddie, the other less cerebral component of the Three Amigos alliance, wasn't feeling concerned at all. He jumped off the platform at the first chance Jeff offered them food. Erik jumped in, too, for a donut. But we know that Erik isn't in trouble until this next vote. So, why the hell Eddie jumped, I have no idea! The girls from the majority alliance egged him on with Dawn saying, "Go for it Eddie!".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/936383_10151419449625922_531318192_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/936383_10151419449625922_531318192_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Reynold, on the other hand, had two great saves just when I thought he was about to go down the water. But he kept fighting until he lost his balance and off to the water he went! Sherri had no shame at rejoicing at all when Reynold dove into the water. Andrea and Brenda ended up slugging it out for the immunity necklace. Attempt at negotiation was there, but no one would give in. Andrea even told Brenda, "You know you're safe". But apparently, there was no trust in there, no matter how tight their alliance seemed because they were willing to stay there for up to 3 hours! Jeff was so ecstatic that the girls ended up making their own rules, just for the sake of novelty, as they both decided to lift up one of their legs just to make the challenge harder as none of them would be willing to jump in. Ironically, Brenda lost despite choosing which leg to lift up. Andrea ended up having immunity for the first time. But the bigger picture dictates that it shows exactly how competitive these two girls are and it was only a matter of time until they're threatened by each other.<br />
<br />
The producers tried their darnest (or not) to make the following sequences seem more strategic and dramatic than it actually is. But we all know that the smartest move for them is to get rid of Reynold. Even though he was a useful vote for anyone who is planning to stage an uprising, he's still a threat to go to the end and make a case for the win. So, Reynold becomes the fourth member of the jury leaving Eddie on his own. Will he be able to survive the next vote? Or are things going to shake up soon as per the titular foreshadowing?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/936879_10151419450360922_517371906_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/936879_10151419450360922_517371906_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
But before that, Andrea shared the hidden immunity idol clue she won during the previous immunity challenge with the rest of her alliance. They dug for the clue together, only for Erik to find it. But just as quickly as he found that idol, he also handed it over to Andrea. Cochran, once again, voiced out my sentiments. Apparently, he has a thing for the idol that he ends up giving them away.. to a woman. Andrea quickly grabbed possession of the idol, which makes the plot to get rid of their biggest threat seemingly impossible. Andrea's aggressive gameplay hasn't escaped the observant eyes of his alliance mates but Cochran noted how timing is critical in every move in Survivor, which is why he will try to be as patient as he can be before making the so-called big move.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/316032_10151419450750922_908852893_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/316032_10151419450750922_908852893_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The second immunity challenge for this episode is a combination of basic Survivor challenge elements: moving a buoy through a series of ropes, untying knots, building a staircase puzzle, and raising a flag. Competition was tight but Erik, Andrea, and Brenda pulled ahead of the rest, with Erik solving his puzzle first and winning immunity for the first time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/603665_10151419451350922_1419309141_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/603665_10151419451350922_1419309141_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Just as I was thinking the same, Jeff asked him about the idea of giving away his immunity necklace again (as if to forewarn him not to!). Erik quipped, "I'm too scared to do that this time." Still not the smartest answer as it indicated that he'd give away immunity if he felt safe. I seriously think that Erik has learned a lesson from last time. However, I don't totally count him out from making the same blunder again... whether or not by giving away his immunity, but I'm still not sure if he's totally grasped how you should play this game. Funny thing is, we hear him talk about being in control of the votes for the past few votes now. Just to clear it up, you're being TOLD who to vote for and you just pick which side to go to. That is NOT taking control of the vote (especially if you had to resort to pointing names in a flag!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/417875_10151419451395922_134307963_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/417875_10151419451395922_134307963_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
As soon as they're back to camp, Andrea goes to work. She worked on blindsiding Brenda because her previous performance in the challenges reveal she's a big threat for her competitiveness, plus she hasn't screwed anyone over (unlike her, or most of them, obviously). I felt a bit of haste in Andrea's move that she ended up confiding to the wrong person about her plans - Cochran. One of the biggest strategists this season, Cochran quickly caught on to Andrea's plan. He felt that if she should start targeting people she felt threatened by, it's only a matter of time until the bullet is pointed at him.<br />
<br />
When the rest of their alliance caught wind of the plan to get rid of Brenda, they concoct a sub-plan to blindside Andrea. They are walking on egg shells, though, because she has the hidden immunity idol in her pocket. Thus, they worked on keeping the plan on the down low, reeling in both Sherri and Erik to split the votes between Andrea and Eddie, just in case she would play the idol. Once again, Erik had this soliloquy about being the swing vote and taking control over which side has the power on the coming days.<br />
<br />
Tribal council was a wreck. With the finals looming, everyone had their sights on making it to the Final 3. Hence, Jeff brought up the possibility of castaways already thinking about who they can beat at the end, instead of sticking with their original alliance. Cochran openly stated making Final 3 promises to basically everyone, to which everybody else agreed on, including Andrea. But she also reiterated the fact that she had found the hidden immunity idol during tribal council, which is a nice ploy by the editing team. Andrea hinted that she will play the idol if she ever feels paranoid. Lots of nervous stares from the other people in her alliance while I can't read Erik's reaction. Cochran earlier noted that he was feeling nervous about putting the success of this plan on Erik's hand because he hasn't proven to be very good at the strategic side to this game. Nonetheless, Andrea ended up not playing the idol and we saw Dawn take a very deep breath as Jeff paused and the dramatic music cues us up for the reading of the votes. But after a few nerve-wracking seconds and Andrea did not play her idol, we see a smile register on both Andrea and Cochran's faces. Then, the reading of the votes came and Andrea looked confused when two Eddie votes came up and then her second vote came in... She dejected, "What????" to her alliance mates. She eventually became the first female jury member and fifth overall.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/944571_10151419451955922_714790906_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/944571_10151419451955922_714790906_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Aggressive play does have its price but you can't play too aggressively, or else your alliance mates will think you will be gunning for them next. I can't fault Andrea for trying to play big and playing to win in the end. Let's face it, sitting next to either Cochran, Dawn, or Brenda in the finals isn't going to be an easy win. Tagging Eddie along is a good plan but if you get too close to the enemies, your allies will be suspicious of your intent. And with that, Andrea also earns the distinction of being the first female to be voted off Survivor with a hidden immunity idol in their pocket.<br />
<br />
Who do you think is the threat to win at this point? Be sure to comment below or vote on the poll.fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-28259340980504251392013-04-29T21:09:00.000-07:002013-04-29T21:09:01.152-07:00Survivor Caramoan Episode 11: Thoughts on Why Malcolm Lost<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAIPShXp6I_Fo__Nd4pebvwpVS_53e8i5Y3j7otQKc53Ra1jgLu7d-chTC7Mi6flyGE1s-b7NFZNQ2g5fyyHErJdcKlVzXazVwO5WUGXuuazWp6CdNg1AhCSTlzPeFh6tLnP0dudtwmwe-/s1600/malcolm_freberg_survivor_caramoan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAIPShXp6I_Fo__Nd4pebvwpVS_53e8i5Y3j7otQKc53Ra1jgLu7d-chTC7Mi6flyGE1s-b7NFZNQ2g5fyyHErJdcKlVzXazVwO5WUGXuuazWp6CdNg1AhCSTlzPeFh6tLnP0dudtwmwe-/s1600/malcolm_freberg_survivor_caramoan.jpg" /></a></div>
A crazily hectic schedule and a crushed infatuated heart combined as to putting major delay in this post. It's no secret that I am a <a href="http://survivor-insider.blogspot.com/2013/01/best-of-malcolm.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>big Malcolm fan</b></span></a> and that he is my <a href="http://survivor-insider.blogspot.com/2013/03/survivor-caramoan-fans-and-favorites.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>no. 1 <i>favorite</i></b></span></a> this season (pun intended). Thus, it took me nearly a week after his torch was snuffed to finally make sense of what happened. But don't expect me to stoically discuss through this episode without feeling a slight tinge over the fact that he lost a second time when he fought valiantly particularly noting the big idol play <a href="http://survivor-insider.blogspot.com/2013/04/thoughts-on-survivor-caramoan-episode-10.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>last week</b></span></a>.<br />
<br />
Another reason why I did not want to skip this recap, albeit late, is the fact that Survivor hit it's highest viewer rating ever! It's the closest the viewing rating has gotten to American Idol, which speaks a lot to the longevity of the season and how its fan base has remained solid throughout the years. But with a sweet victory comes bittersweet memories as the majority alliance at the Enil Edam tribe, plus Sherri, finally voted off the game's biggest threat - Malcolm.<br />
<br />
The episode started off with the remainder of Phillip's Stealth R' Us alliance making sense of what just happened at tribal. Most of them were giving congratulatory speeches to their nemesis, which I thought was kinda awkward. But Malcolm does this little speech about convincing one or two people to "come over to the dark side", so to speak because he believes he needed to escape one or two votes in order to regain control of this game.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.blogs.sheknows.com/realitytvmagazine.sheknows.com/2013/04/Malcolm-Freberg-chugs-beer-at-Survivor-auction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://cdn.blogs.sheknows.com/realitytvmagazine.sheknows.com/2013/04/Malcolm-Freberg-chugs-beer-at-Survivor-auction.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Then comes the classic Survivor auction! This is usually a fun segment in the game wherein the castaways get to unwind and enjoy some food without competing for it in a challenge. But I have to note that there were a few misjudgments along the way. First off, I got quite the scare when Malcolm bid on the beer and nuts at the first chance Jeff revealed the item! Just when he delivered this confessional about keeping his money, even when he might be tempted for some food, in order to get an advantage or information. Thankfully, the other castaways, namely Andrea and Brenda (who had all their $500 at that point) weren't smart enough to outbid him at $480 for the immunity idol clue.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://robhasawebsite.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/e11-reynold-brenda-sherri.jpg?fe8f44" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://robhasawebsite.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/e11-reynold-brenda-sherri.jpg?fe8f44" /></a></div>
<br />
Dawn and Sherri both bid all of their money on food items, then wept annoyingly when they found out that all they needed was $20 in order to get letters from home. Seriously?! 26 seasons in and you still could not have seen that coming! At least for once, though, we get to see a valid reason for Dawn's tears. Ugh.<br />
<br />
When Malcolm used up all his money on the idol clue, to which Jeff tried so hard to make it sound enigmatic by claiming "information in the game", it was Cochran who won the bid for the immunity challenge advantage. And he did not even have to spend his full $500 for it! What was Eddie doing? He was clearly on the minority and it did not even cross his mind to outbid Cochran for the<b> </b>advantage! During Malcolm's exit interview, he clearly pointed out how difficult it was to talk strategy with people, er allies, who don't know how to play the game (more insight on this later). But he jokingly said during his interview with Rob Cesternino on his <a href="http://robhasawebsite.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>podcast</b></span></a>, "<i>with allies like these, who needs enemies?</i>". Well said!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images.bwwstatic.com/upload10/495283/survivor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.bwwstatic.com/upload10/495283/survivor.jpg" /></a></div>
To make a long story short, Cochran ended up winning the immunity, thanks to the advantage he bought at the auction. He used it during the early stage of the competition, which I believe was smart because he ended up not having to exert much effort, especially since he knows he is going up against a lot of brawny men in the likes of Malcolm, Eddie, and Reynold, that could potentially beat him even with the advantage. But producers managed to kill the suspense yet again by showing a confessional of Eddie pre-immunity challenge. He said that he'd have no trouble beating Cochran in any challenge, especially a physical one! But to everyone's surprise, <i>or not</i>, the self-proclaimed challenge beast has done it again. He beat out 8 others to get his second individual immunity win.<br />
<br />
The standoff continues between the three amigos and the remaining six from Stealth R' Us. It started with Malcolm digging for the hidden immunity idol, which ironically he had the most difficult time finding even with a clue whereas the previous two he found without a single clue. To make matters worse, Andrea tried to stave off any attempt for Malcolm to dig and look for the idol. Many fans claim this was a fatal flaw in Malcolm's game but I was also partly torn as I felt he did not want to give away the exact location of the idol based on the clue he read, particularly since Andrea has caught up to the possibility that it could be somewhere near the well.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/survivor-2013-episode-11-sherri-malcolm-480x266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.survivorfandom.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/survivor-2013-episode-11-sherri-malcolm-480x266.jpg" /></a></div>
Malcolm came up with a back-up plan to bluff about having the idol. They were courting Sherri and Erik to jumpshift, although I was slightly put off by Reynold's approach while trying to bring Sherri into the fold. He told her, "worst case scenario is you got fourth or fifth". What an arrogant way to put it! And for someone who is trying to get to the finals, I don't think that would be the magic words to use to bring them over to your side. Thus, Malcolm was smart enough to tell Reynold and Eddie that they work on Erik while he talk to Sherri. Going back to what I said earlier, these two seem to bring nothing to their game. It was all Malcolm's work! Sherri sounded convinced but I was also a bit skeptical if she's totally in with the plan, especially since she already backstabbed Malcolm a few episodes ago! But what can Malcolm do? She's his only chance at making it at least past this one vote.<br />
<br />
Erik, on the other hand, was being brought up by the remaining favorites as the most likely to switch. Cochran pointed out his vote for Phillip during last tribal and Andrea raised his previous season, which might make him skeptical about working with women.<br />
<br />
During tribal council, however, it was clear that the two they were banking on (Erik and Sherri) were never really with them. Hence, it was a guessing game at that point as to whether or not Malcolm had in fact found the idol. When the votes were cast and Malcolm didn't play the idol, the remaining favorites gave out a relieved grin. Cochran, in his voting confessional, was relishing the possibility of voting out Malcolm. When they split the votes between Malcolm and Reynold, I knew at that point that Malcolm was done. I could not paint Reynold's face at this point - he was screwed many times over, it has proven to be a tough stretch for him!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/p480x480/934629_10151407053668511_1389867264_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/p480x480/934629_10151407053668511_1389867264_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
During the re-vote, the vote unanimously went Malcolm's way. Even Eddie voted for his amigo. For the sake of those who are left in the game, it was the smartest move to make. With the previous tribal council idol fiasco that was spearheaded by Malcolm and him putting all of his money on the idol clue, he exposed himself as the savvier player than Reynold (and Eddie, duh). If they let him stay after this vote, who knew what he could've done! Plus, it'll only give him the opportunity to continue his dig for the idol. And they can't take that chance, especially if they wanted to keep the numbers and improve their chances at making the finals. But it's going to be a tight race - those 6 are going to turn on each other soon! Not sure if neither Reynold nor Eddie has the gusto to break up that clique, so taking out Malcolm was their best bet.<br />
<br />
<br />
With the remaining players, here's a quick power ranking:<br />
<br />
8. <b>Eddie</b> - Need I explain? The only way I believe for Eddie to survive the next vote is if, and only if, Reynold does not win immunity because the latter will be targeted first by the majority alliance. We're also too deep into the game for flirting to work his way. Sorry bud.<br />
<br />
7. <b>Reynold</b> - Only because he is savvier than Eddie. Plus, he is also more competitive in challenges and is more likely to wear that immunity necklace again to save him another round.<br />
<br />
6. <b>Andrea </b>- Even though Phillip took on the role of the leader to
the Stealth R' Us alliance, Andrea was the secret ring leader. She also
played an aggressive game from Day 1. But she's been targeted by her own alliance in the past, with Dawn wanting to vote her off because she felt like she was being too close with Reynold, Eddie and Malcolm. Unless she can win an immunity necklace soon, she might be next in the assembly line.<br />
<br />
5. <b>Erik</b> - It's tough to rank Erik because we haven't heard about his strategy and what he plans on doing when it came down to just the six that makes up the majority alliance. His name has been brought up and the majority alliance might get suspicious of him, depending on how the tides turn in the next episode. But if he can prove them that he's worth their trust, he could be a key part of this alliance. The one thing that might work against his game, though, is that he might be perceived as a challenge treat. The majority might vote him off as soon as he doesn't win immunity.<br />
<br />
4. <b>Dawn </b>- The crybaby. The only thing that's keeping her in this game is the fact that she has worked with Cochran in making strategic decision and they're part of the majority alliance. To be fair, she has played a better and more strategic game than last time. But she's like a ticking time bomb that's waiting to explode. <br />
<br />
3. <b>Sherri </b>- I place her a bit higher in the ranking because she won't be perceived as a threat in the finals. She will be one of those that other castaways will be tagging along to get an easy pass for the mill. Plus, I also see Sherri being smart enough to exploit that. And since she's proven to be good at ass-kissing, she's in a good spot right now.<br />
<br />
2. <b>Brenda</b> - If there is one thing I can use to describe Brenda's game, it would be patient. We know she's a power player in her previous season. But since being on the wrong side of the numbers, she's done an excellent job of playing under the radar. She also is likable enough for people to want to have her stick around. But while being invisible meant that she wasn't going home, it also indicated that she won't win as the editing did not build up her strategic game that would merit a win.<br />
<br />
1. <b>Cochran</b> - At this stage in the game, I don't think anyone could beat Cochran in any Final 3 scenario. He has played a great strategic game wherein he pulled the strings together while making it seem that others were taking control. Also, he was sociable and lovable enough to be liked by his fellow tribemates. He also surprised many, including himself, at how well he's done with the challenges, managing to win a couple to date.<br />
<br />
How would you rate this episode? fashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835125513117313396.post-64036847171534291602013-04-19T01:17:00.001-07:002013-04-19T01:46:34.205-07:00Thoughts on Survivor Caramoan Episode 10Not since Parvati handed out immunity idols to Jerri and Sandra on Survivor: Heroes vs Villains had I witnessed a more game-shifting, rippling move on Survivor! The most recent tribal council on Survivor Caramoan has totally brought a new dynamic into the game, pushing alliance mates to hysteria. Pardon my bias, but I think I speak for several others when I say that that tribal council was even more celebrated not just for its double immunity idol play, thanks to the three amigos, but also for the opportunity to see Phillip, the mastermind of the joke that is Stealth R' Us alliance, is finally cut off loose. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikRkjNFdmZtQ-mLNrgBFl0itFSxjj-QCbQsFqBgTIzjb6uO9dTjKnJUM4opykr5PtoTUhj3-cWIULk5ZCxmMQ1u46J7-Ar-Jl_JOW78U2r_Ej_4rUXMrCgKKakkiNwVaW1yASPf7VPfavH/s1600/trio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikRkjNFdmZtQ-mLNrgBFl0itFSxjj-QCbQsFqBgTIzjb6uO9dTjKnJUM4opykr5PtoTUhj3-cWIULk5ZCxmMQ1u46J7-Ar-Jl_JOW78U2r_Ej_4rUXMrCgKKakkiNwVaW1yASPf7VPfavH/s400/trio.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The theme of this episode has been scathed with double play innuendos. And the producers did an excellent job of not preparing us for what's to come at the latter part of the episode. The preview from <a href="http://survivor-insider.blogspot.com/2013/04/survivor-caramoan-episode-9-cut-off.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>last week</b></span></a> showed us Dawn crying hysterically and breaking down (hey, what's new?)... I expected it to arise after a confrontation between Malcolm and Reynold to which she gave her word to after they showed her the idol. But apparently, it was only because of a lost retainer. How anticlimactic, right? Brenda ended up saving the day, or else she would've pulled herself from the game. Don't think the latter would be a very bad idea, even Dawn admits she cries more than a baby does. But then again, we get to hear Brenda give out a confessional (albeit a
brief one) after a long time. And in her words, she proclaimed that she
will never turn her back on Dawn. Hmmm, foreshadowing? That one might
have significance in the coming episode, so it'll be a puzzle how that
will come into play.<br />
<br />
The editing trick here has practically made viewers suspicious if this is setting up to be a Dawn boot, especially as the episode opens with Cochran and Phillip talking about her volatility in terms of the emotional state, with Cochran going as far as comparing it to the instability of Brandon. The paranoia is clearly starting to set into Dawn and it is only a matter of time until that erupts (or will it?). In my case, the significant amount of confessionals sure did make me wonder. But for someone like Phillip calling Dawn crazy, that's got to be serious!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/28142_10151399397220922_852048621_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/28142_10151399397220922_852048621_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This week's reward challenge is reminiscent of the <a href="http://survivor-insider.blogspot.com/2012/11/survivor-philippines-episode-9-good-vs.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"><b>Episode 9</b></span></a> reward challenge from Survivor Philippines dubbed Muddy Waters. With slight modifications to the obstacle course that castaways had to overcome, it was the same concept wherein they had to dig through a bag in a mud pit and then shoot the balls into a narrow basket. The castaways were split into two teams of five with Malcolm's team looking to have an upper hand. However, even when Malcolm used Penner's strategy of pulling out all of the bags, it didn't produce the results like last time. The winning team went on a resort getaway with a fabulous view and lots of food! As they gorge on the feast, Phillip manages to spoil it with his lack of etiquette as he jumps straight into the pool without taking a shower. How old is he again?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images.mstarz.com/data/images/full/12170/survivor-caramoan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.mstarz.com/data/images/full/12170/survivor-caramoan.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The pivotal point in the game was during the immunity challenge, which by the way is a favorite of mine because it is a re-do of the classic immunity challenge from Pearl Islands. But Phillip decides to sit this one out pointing to an incident during his childhood years that made him uncomfortable about the whole challenge setup. It boiled down to a competition between Malcolm and Reynold, but the latter ended up winning as Malcolm eventually got worn out after five rounds of swimming. This spoiled the plans of the Stealth R' Us alliance because Reynold's idol was played last time, putting him as their number one choice to vote off. With this win, it screws up the plan although their fall back choice was clearly Malcolm.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/552909_10151399398635922_29324407_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/552909_10151399398635922_29324407_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The three amigos went looking for an idol in the jungle as soon as they got back to camp. Malcolm still has his immunity idol from the former Bikal camp, of which only Corinne knew about. However, he points out that he wanted to preserve that idol for as long as possible, so if he can get through this vote without having to use it, then it's to his advantage. Soon enough, Andrea and Dawn decided to go looking for the idol, too. But it clearly wasn't that easy without clue that Dawn points out it's like looking for a needle in a haystack. Dawn joked around with Malcolm about yelling out should he find the idol but there is no need for that as they were right there in front of him as he took it out from one of the rocks. Andrea and Dawn couldn't believe what they just saw so they went rushing to their allies to confide this new information, then quickly concoct a plan for the upcoming tribal council.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/551551_10151399399115922_74409937_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/551551_10151399399115922_74409937_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I thought for sure that was the crazy part of the episode, but suspense continued to build up as Jeff was probing the Stealth R' Us alliance about the status of their alliance and that of the three guys clearly on the outs, namely Malcolm, Eddie, and Reynold. Eddie was certain that it could be him going home in that tribal council noting how Malcolm found the hidden immunity idol and that Reynold was wearing the immunity necklace. However, Malcolm pulled out another trick off of his bag citing that there was some tension at camp as the other seven were clearly trying to distance themselves in fear of being associated with the minority. But to everyone's surprise, he pulled out his original immunity idol that he found with Corinne and handed it to Eddie. Eddie's face was golden as he registered a goofy yet clearly elated look. On the flip side, most of the people in the front row could only burrow their faces into their palms in disbelief. Of everyone, Andrea seemed to show the surest look of concern. Jeff also pitched the idea that Malcolm declaring their vote for Phillip could be an attempt to double play them as they could blindside any one of the remaining six.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/522059_10151399399815922_200357712_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/522059_10151399399815922_200357712_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The chaos that ensued was a pure joy to watch. CBS was right - after 400+ tribal councils, nothing crazier like this had transpired. Subdued whispers were going on as everyone scrambled for a spontaneous second plan. The chaos worsened with Malcolm declaring, "clearly, not one of us is going home!". We hear a couple of names being tossed around - Andrea and Phillip. At this point, I thought Andrea was done. Then, Phillip delivered a speech addressing his allies that they should stick with their initial plan. The success of this plan hinged on the fact that neither Eddie nor Malcolm are going to play their idol. This is a critical point that Erik also raised earlier that this could be a mere ploy on their part and they do not really intend to play it. This showed us the game-savvy Erik who we haven't seen in two seasons up to this point. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/544873_10151399400035922_44512388_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/544873_10151399400035922_44512388_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
When Cochran cast his vote, he confessed this is the reason why he still loves Survivor after 13 years. I couldn't agree more! I held my breathe as Jeff asked if anyone wanted to play their idol. Eddie stood up first and everybody else was looking at Malcolm to see if he would follow Eddie's lead. Eventually, he gave up his idol, too, and we saw Phillip go home. The Specialist, as he self-proclaimed, is gone - thankfully and finally!<br />
<br />
To see just how crazy this tribal was, re-live it here:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/0sZH6IiTOAw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
I've heard a lot of opinions from fans about the success of this move, with some claiming that Malcolm was unable to maximize the moves to his advantage. Personally, I thought revealing the second idol at tribal council was a brilliant move because he kept the Stealth R' Us alliance from devising a fall back plan. I think Malcolm has learned his lesson in the past two tribal councils that they could sneak back to their alliance mates and reveal their plans. By not letting that happen, the majority alliance was caught off-guard, even to a point on insisting on their original plan which got Phillip voted off. The key change here that might've benefited Malcolm's alliance was the fact that Phillip is gone. He was the one commanding the other six and lining them up like ducks. Without him, it would be easier to infiltrate into that alliance, especially with one or two people on the perimeters of that alliance. In fact, we saw Erik vote for Phillip at this tribal council!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://cdn.rickey.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Survivor-Caramoan-Episode-10-Recap-and-Results-Zipping-Over-The-Cuckoos-Nest-07-2013-04-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://cdn.rickey.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Survivor-Caramoan-Episode-10-Recap-and-Results-Zipping-Over-The-Cuckoos-Nest-07-2013-04-17.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
The preview for the next episode wasn't as intriguing but things are going to shift soon. For weeks, I was hoping for things to change and with Phillip gone, I think one or two people are going to feel threatened about their security within the majority alliance. What did you think of this episode? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comment section!<br />
<br />
<b>Image credit</b>: CBS and Survivor Seasonsfashchronicleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02322588481949149556noreply@blogger.com1