It was definitely good, really good. Was it great? Eh…I don’t know. The plot seemed to drag just a little; it seemed long (although that could have more to do with the fact that Netflix wasn’t working for me for the first half of it). It did a good job at establishing the characters and main plot, but there wasn’t that…I don’t know…oomph. That spark that just pulls you in. For me it was more the previews, and even that seemed like it was trying too hard. It just didn’t do it for me right away. Its definitely got a lot of potential though, and for what its worth, its a great idea. But its the kind of plot line that could go either way. Backstage cattiness, sleeping with the director and a gay man will only get you so far. To be honest, I don’t think it will last. NBC had a good idea putting it on after The Voice (like Fox premiered Glee after American Idol), but with its ratings and history of canning great shows or selling them to other networks (Medium anyone?), I’m not sure if Smash will be able to keep up. I have to mention however, who did do it for me was Anjelica Houston’s character Eileen. For lack of better description, she walked through that whole entire episode like a damn boss. Her character is reminiscent of Meryl Streep’s Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada, but much nicer. With Debra Messing and Christian Borle on her shoulders, she pretty much carries the entire show. The least interesting character had to be the one that the show is pushing as its star, Katherine McPhee. Even her politician’s assistant boyfriend was more interesting than her, if only for the English accent alone. The entire cast acted circles around her, and quite frankly, she’s playing a character type that’s been beaten into the ground.

Overall, I’d give the show a B-. It wasn’t enough to get you hyped (despite all the promotional hype surrounding it), but it was enough to bring you back for at least the second episode.

Now, for more important matters: Team Ivy or Team Karen? ;)