Smash: SHAR (p) K Reversal:

Scientists have shown that because their pectoral fins are unable to bend, sharks lack the ability to swim backwards. They even struggle to remain still and are constantly on the move. In the case of NBC’s Smash however, the it’s shark jumping is beginning to show signs of reversal.

I wrote earlier this year that I had pretty much given up on Smash before the end of last season. I did give it another shot due to the massive publicity the second season was getting and in particular the addition of Andy Mientus. Now I know it is Jeremy Jordan and especially Jennifer Hudson who were supposed to lure us all back, but although both immensely talented, neither character has peaked my curiosity to see more the way Andy’s has.

Hudson always brings down the house when she sings (maybe a little too much sometimes) and Jordan’s Broadway: Here I Come song was haunting in the first episode, but although intrigued with the season premier, it was not until about midway through this past weeks episode (the season’s third), that I got hooked.

Mientus and Jeremy Jordan

Finally, story lines began to come together and there was really something to be interested in. The who’s going to play Marilyn, angle had long ago turned to ‘who cares’ (especially with the ill advised addition of Uma), and the show needed to switch directions awhile ago, finally it has. It began turning a corner two episodes ago, but finally committed, and made the sharp turn last week

Below: Jordan in Smash, and on stage with Chad Allen in Little Dog Laughed

Katherine McPhee remains a weak link to me, but this season is surrounded by enough acting power to make it less of an issue. Megan Hilty continues to always shine and Jordan and Andy help fill the massive gap in the cast of characters that plagued season one. If you have not tried Smash, or have been turned off by the bad press, I suggest giving it a go. If you have watched, and given up, I suggest finding the first three episodes of season 2 and giving it another go. A show centered on Broadway should be a must see, but, like most new Broadway shows, they take awhile to find their footing. Consider season 1 the out of town previews, and season two the actual Broadway premier!