So I am told to check out this new web series The Bigtime Show. "Fine, if I must" I whine?
Slightly jaded I toddle around their website, I think, quite frankly, in an effort to stall watching another show about two wanna-be actors.
The Big Time stars Gabe Michael as Gabe, David Wuest as Dave (both actors) and John Charles Meyer as Dr. J their crooked agent/landlord. The premise for the pilot episode is that two actor guys, Gabe and Dave "move to Hollywood to make their dreams of going big come true" or at least that's what the web synopsis says.
Gabe, the action star wanna-be finds an ad for Dr. J who is supposed to be some big time agent. He and his semi-nerdy, but cute, guitar-playing best friend, Dave, go to the address. When they get there a very strange Chinese man opens the door and doesn't say a word. Actually this little beat had me laughing out loud which I must for the show is its subtle comedy. Little familiar L.A. actor-isms just had my laughing so hard.
But back to the show, finally Dr. J comes to the door, nose ring, long pony tail,looking more like he belongs in Scarface than an agent's office. He does agree to see them but warns that they must never use that door again.
Before watching the pilot episode, honestly, I expected a poor sound/light quality, not that well-written series about two actors, but I was surprised. This is good; it really is! I am (although reluctant to admit it because I am way too cool) looking forward to more episodes.
Established in the pilot show, the boys have 'arrived' and are set to make the big time; they will be living in Dr. J's house. Within the show is also inter-cut, very funny confessionals by the guys or their trash-talking agent (who is particularly good). Dr J. has the best scene-stealers. Visually, he is hilarious and then acting-wise, his understated, do-what-I-say-and-don't-ask attitude, as if he is 'on the lam', rocks!
One clip in particular works well when on the screen we see a title for what we are about to view which is Gabe's action demo. Dr. J talks over it in parts, saying that these guys have no talent but he will get all he can out of them. Gabe, in the demo, takes a very un-samurai-like, slow motion approach to action, really funny. Seriously, the series, produced by Gabe Michael/David Wuest and written by Gabe Michael, David Wuest and John Charles Mayer is ambitious. They have created a vehicle for themselves as actors and it could be risky, but I think it really works. It is well cast, well written, funny as hell and some of the cartoon graphics are also a nice touch. Also I think as a series, this actually has room to go somewhere in that they have a brilliant set-up with Gabe leading his sorry friend, Dave and both being led by slimy Dr. J. There is something about this show, while a predictable premise, that leaves me wondering what will happen next and definitely hoping that I am at least slightly surprised!
I'd say keep an eye on these guys. There is certainly talent both in the acting and writing, charisma and tenacity and it remains to be seen if they push the envelope with the series. But keep watching, they might just hit The Big Time! NBC execs., you better watch your back, The Big Time crew are coming after your jobs!
-- Heather Langone
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