"BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING YOU"
By Reggie Tangan, Reality TV Junkie
Recently, local channel ABS-CBN revealed that they will be producing their very own local version of the hit Realiy TV show; "Big Brother." Dubbed as "Pinoy Big Brother," their pitch for potential houseguests was this: "Gusto mo maging bida in 100 days?" (Do you want to be famous in 100 days?) The prizes were alluringly tempting: 1 Million Pesos, a brand new set of wheels and a brand new pad! The thing is, does the average pinoy know what "Big Brother" is?
Initially shown in the Netherlands in September 1999, and subsequently cloned across the world, the "housemates" are confined inside a specially designed house, and not permitted any contact with the outside world: no TV, radio, telephone, internet or other media are available to the housemates, not even writing materials. Private chats with a psychologist are a special exception. At weekly intervals, the public is invited to vote to evict one of the contestants. The last remaining is the winner.
Initially, the hostel in which they had to reside for the duration of the competition was very basic. Although essential amenities such as running water, furniture and a limited ration of food were provided, luxury items were forbidden. This added an element of survival into the show, thus increasing the potential for tensions within the house.
It's like "Survivor," but at least your sanity is in check.
Each week, the housemates each privately nominate a number of people who they wish to see removed from the house more than the other residents. The ones with the most nominations are then named on the television show, and viewers can call a special premium rate telephone number or send a premium rate text message to vote for whom they want to evict.
After the votes are tallied, the "evictee" leaves the house and is interviewed on-camera by the host of the show, usually in front of a live studio audience. The last remaining housemate is declared the winner and receives the aforementioned cash prizes.
So why not gave it a try, I called up ABS-CBN and try my luck on Reality TV.
Yours in detente
Reggie Tangan
