(S05E17) In just one more week, the Dancing With The Stars finale will be here, and it was time to thin the herd. I would never have guessed that Jennie, Marie, Mel, and Helio would be the final four dancers, but they each brought something special to the semifinal. I still believe that Mel and Helio will reach the final phase of the competition; they didn't falter even a little this week. As far as I'm concerned, the third spot is up for grabs. Who will the fans choose?
The stars finally had the opportunity to choose their own dances: one Ballroom routine and one Latin routine. It's always interesting to see the couples return to their favorite dance styles, or take a new approach to a style that didn't quite work the first time around. Judging from tonight's scores, nobody made a wrong move.
Marie Osmond and Jonathan Roberts (Quickstep) - After getting criticized for a low-content routine last week, Jonathan and Marie resolved to include far more content in both of their new routines. Jonathan's goal for Marie was all about "technique, technique, technique," which I think was a smart choice. Technical difficulty is the only thing that has been missing from Marie's performances this season, and they need strong scores as well as votes if they want to reach the finals. I definitely saw more content towards the end of the routine, which they performed to "Good Mornin'." Marie brought her sparkling personality to the performance, as usual, but softened it up to create a light, sweet Quickstep.
The couple completely succeeded in winning over the judges with their routine. Len stated that Marie was the most entertaining of all the celebrity dancers, and thought their Quickstep was prefect. Bruno called the dance a Hollywood classic, and saw a great deal of glamour and content. Carrie Ann was surprised by Marie's decision to do the Quickstep, but thought it was a wonderful, content-filled performance. Even Tom was blown away by all of the positive remarks. Score: 29 (10, 10, 9). The hundreds of Osmonds in the audience didn't like that 9 one bit.
Melanie Brown and Maksim Chmerkovskiy (Viennese Waltz) - Mel explained that she and Maksim chose the Paso Doble because they got a 30 in their earlier routine, and the Viennese Waltz because they wanted to do a better job with it. I always admire the dancers who take these kinds of chances toward the end of the competition; playing it safe isn't as fun for the audience. The Spice Girls showed up to cheer Mel and Maks on during rehearsal, and gave the couple tons of encouragement. They performed their Waltz to Queen's "Somebody to Love," which worked surprisingly well with the pace and intensity of the routine. The obvious showstopper was Mel doing splits across the floor while being carried by Maks.
Bruno called the performance a "Waltz driven to maximum impact," and dubbed it the Ferrari of Waltzes. He loved the precision, speed, and sexiness. Carrie Ann got chills watching the couple, and thought their Waltz was "all that and then some." Len said that the routine was absolutely fabulous and called Mel a queen bee. Amidst all that praise, Mel found time to give Tom a playful swat on the butt. It's funny to watch Tom lose his composure! Score: 30 (10, 10, 10)
Jennie Garth and Derek Hough (Tango) - Jennie has been missing her daughters during the competition, so the family visited Disneyland for some bonding. She even had the opportunity to dance with Mickey Mouse, which was adorable and odd-looking at the same time. After meeting some of the fans that she has inspired, Jennie returned to practices with a renewed desire to win. The couple's Tango ("The Take Over, The Breaks Over," Fall Out Boy) was far more aggressive than any of their earlier performances. Now that Jennie's confidence issues are behind her, she's doing a much better job capturing the tone of each dance.
Carrie Ann was glad to see that Jennie was so focused, but thought the routine was lacking in chemistry. Len disagreed with Carrie Ann, and noted the vibrance, passion, and energy of the Tango. Bruno called Jennie a red menace, and loved the intricate choreography. If you didn't know that Extreme Makeover: Home Edition was celebrating its 100th episode, you knew at the end of this episode. Score: 28 (9, 10, 9). Backstage, we learned that Derek had to dance most of the routine with his shoe falling off.
Helio Castroneves and Julianne Hough (Foxtrot) - After receiving a perfect score last week, Helio showed his appreciation by giving Julianne flowers and introducing her to guys from Rascal Flatts. Julianne's goal was to take Helio's progress to the next level and make him an amazing dancer. The result of the couple's efforts was an elegant, lovely Foxtrot. This was far and away my favorite of the Ballroom performances in this episode. Helio and Julianne are a charming couple, and the dance ("Ain't That A Kick In The Head") was very smooth and fun.
Len said that he loved Helio's Foxtrot in the first week of competition, and that the new routine did nothing to change his opinion. Bruno declared that he would eat his book if Helio doesn't make it to the finals, and that Helio had surpassed his expectations. Carrie Ann thought the dance had tons of charisma, and loved the polished technique. Score: 30 (10, 10, 10). It's easy to tell who the judges' favorites are.
For the Latin round, Len gave each of the dancers a private master class. Examining the footage of earlier performances helped him to narrow down each competitor's weak spots. Marie needed to work on her hip action, and Helio's footwork left a little to be desired. After flirting with Jennie for a while, Len told her to fix her arm movements. Mel had to focus on sharpening her skills and not looking down. It's always a pleasure to see Len dance, and he is far more charming in the rehearsal studio.
Marie Osmond and Jonathan Roberts (Mambo) - Marie began her routine with a solo, while Jonathan looked on from the audience. If the first dance was for the judges, this dance was meant for the audience. Marie pulled out all the stops, attempting tough moves and ripping off clothing. There was less content in the Mambo than in the Quickstep, but the entertainment factor was much higher. My untrained eye caught a few mistakes, but the audience didn't seem to care--especially after Marie jumped into her brothers' laps at the end.
Bruno noticed that Marie lost her footing several times, but loved the "madcap Mambo" that Marie delivered. Carrie Ann was glad to see that the hot cougar had returned, and loved the fantastic stunts. Len praised Marie's hip action, and was amazed at her level of energy. Score: 27 (9, 9, 9); 56 total points.
Melanie Brown and Maksim Chmerkovskiy (Paso Doble) - Mel kept the audience's and the judges' attention with the clever use of a whip. The couple's Paso Doble ("(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction") was incredibly passionate and aggressive. It's a shame that the final will have three contestants instead of two, because I would love to see a showdown between Mel and Helio. Since Sabrina left the competition, they have been the ones setting the standard. The only problem I have is deciding who I like more.
Carrie Ann said that Mel had managed to top her own perfection, and thought the performance was powerful and dynamic. Len initially thought it was rash to try to beat her 30-point Paso Doble, but was won over by the new routine. Bruno praised the precision of Mel's footwork, as well as the sharp turns and lines. Tom couldn't stop flirting with Mel, and kept the whip as a souvenir. Score: 30 (10, 10, 10); 60 total points. In a touching gesture, Maks gave Mel some flowers, and then took one for himself.
Jennie Garth and Derek Hough (Cha Cha Cha) - Jennie's Latin round was much better than her Ballroom round. The couple's Cha Cha Cha ("Mustang Sally") was extremely flirtatious and sexy, and brought the audience members to their feet. Jennie's lucky that she was able to get over her reservations about having chemistry with Derek. They had intense chemistry in this routine, and looked like they were having a lot of fun. I'm afraid that Jennie will be the one to leave this week, since Marie's fan base is so strong. It's been great watching her make so much progress, though.
Len told Jennie that he's enjoyed watching her develop as a dancer from the first week until now. He thought the spins at the end were fantastic. Bruno said that Jennie had finally achieved the necessary star power, and that the routine rocked. Carrie Ann gave the couple snaps for their efforts. Backstage, Derek did a celebratory worm dance. Score: 30 (10, 10, 10); 58 total points. This was Jennie's first 30, and I'm glad that she finally got one. If she does go home, it will be on a high note.
Helio Castroneves and Julianne Hough (Cha Cha Cha) - Helio's Foxtrot was my favorite Ballroom performance this week, and his Cha Cha Cha was my favorite routine of the entire evening! Mel's probably a step above Helio in terms of technique, but I enjoy Helio's energy and style more. The couple gave us a sizzling routine, performed to "Love Rollercoaster." I think they're guaranteed to be in the finals, and I cannot wait to see what they bring.
Bruno said the Cha Cha Cha was eye-popping and vibrant, and than strangely called Helio the king of a great ride. Carrie Ann thought Helio looked like a star on the dance floor, and complimented Julianne's moves and choreography. Len called Helio and Julianne the standout couple of the night. Score: 30 (10, 10, 10); 60 total points.
The final leaderboard put Helio and Melanie in a tie for first, followed by Jennie and then Marie. I'm guessing that the Osmond media machine will put Marie in the finals, but I'm pulling for Jennie. Either way, the finals should be amazing.
Tuesday's results show will feature appearances by Avril Lavigne, Michael Flatley, Kenny Mayne, and Sabrina Bryan. Until then, check out AOL's extensive Dancing With The Stars coverage, which includes photo galleries, a live chat (Mondays & Tuesdays, 7:30pm ET), and the chance to support your favorite couple by voting in AOL's poll!
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
11-20-2007 @ 1:44AM
Stacie23 said...
As long as Mel and Helio are in the finals that would be fine with me. Honestly if we are gonna be honest the best 3 dancers were Mel, Helio and Sabrina but that ship has sailed and now we should have Mel, Helio and Jennie. The Osmonds, especially Marie have been getting alot of exposure these past few weeks so I can see her getting into the finals. Jenny should be there but I wouldn't be suprised at all if she isn't. If the finals does not include Helio and Mel then it wouldn't make the finale at all interesting.
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11-20-2007 @ 1:51AM
mamadoe said...
Like you, I definitely do not want Jennie and Derek to be the ones sent home, but I think they will be. Marie just has too much fan support. And, even though Jennie is giving it her all, her heart isn't in it as much as the others. However, her cha-cha was so darned sexy, I could barely recognize her. She really looked hot, and there were no remarks about her being 10 years Derek's senior, so there!
Marie really did pull out all the stops this week, and she has the desire, the drive, and the fan support. However, if a woman is to win, I hope it's Mel and, yes, I admit it, for Maks, too! But I would not be disappointed should Helio win. He is so charming and I would never have expected this race car driver to be such a great dancer.
The only thing that would be unfair is that if Mel is the third runner-up next week and it comes down to Marie and Helio. Since there isn't as much fan support for Mel, this could happen, but I would hate to see it happen, because Helio and Mel are the competitors.
Tomorrow night's show sounds exciting, with Sabrina and Mark coming back, and Michael Flatley bringing his ego, and Kenny Maynes interviewing those who've been given their walking papers. Should be a lot of fun.
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11-20-2007 @ 2:14AM
Brent McKee said...
I have to confess I didn't and don't understand why Bruno gave Marie a 9 on the quickstep. And I agreed with Carrie Ann about Jennie & Derek's Tango - it was missing something. Still I usually get the feeling that this late in the competition the judges want to have as little impact on competition as possible and as a result you see a lot of "grade inflation." Next week, unless there is some radical malfunction by one of the teams (i.e. Marie trips over her own feet and head butts Jonathon as a result) expect the judges to offer up a three-way tie.
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11-20-2007 @ 3:36AM
cher said...
Love Marie...appreciate what she's been going through the past month.....know she's got the entire state of Utah voting for her.....However, I think if we REALLY voted on ability and the performance this week.....she should go. Jenny has really improved and looked darn good tonight. She should stay. Helio and Mel are just great and deserve to be in the finals.
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11-20-2007 @ 6:31AM
Priscilla said...
I can't help it, I just like Marie so darn much! I have to keep cheering her on, and I'm not from Utah! Helio is outstanding as well. Mel gets a bit on my nerves. Too cocky for my taste, perhaps. Jennie, as sweet as she seems, it's time for her to go home and be with her family. She goes home with 10's, that's something to be proud of!
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11-20-2007 @ 6:47AM
LMK said...
Marie deserved all 10's one her first dance and while the judges criticized she lost her footing -it is amazing no one else saw it.
Marie has also often been citicized for "no" content -while Mel and Jelio both came out lst night and basically walked around the floor and got 10's. I am not belittling either --but the judges need to use the same standard for ALL the dancers not give leeway to their favorites.
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11-20-2007 @ 7:06AM
Erma said...
Super show!
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11-20-2007 @ 8:06AM
Karen said...
I thought Mel's content was less this week as well. Even Helio seemed to be standing there while Julianne did her thing -- and she does do it perfectly!
I could not ever get into Jenny but I admire her overcoming her obstacles. Marie is endearing.
But -- I wish they'd just have a Mel and Helio showdown for the finals and be done with it. That would be very entertaining.
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11-20-2007 @ 8:09AM
frank said...
Yes, I like Marie, too. She's a gutsy gal, a real trooper, but she was outdanced by Jennie and should be the next to leave, though I doubt that will happen. I think Jennie really shown this week, but Marie's fan base will save her. I hope to see Mel B win for her passion and technical skills, but I see Helio taking it for his smile and determination. What a shame that this is really just a popularity contest. Yet something else dumbed down for the masses of the U.S.A.
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11-20-2007 @ 9:01AM
David said...
The second I saw Bruno's 9 for Marie and Jonathan, I immediately thought "the fix is in", which I confess I have NEVER thought in watching 4 seasons of this show (I missed the first iteration). I thought he voted 9 knowing Len and Carrie Ann were giving 10s, because he wanted to save his perfect votes for the more talented couples.
Obviously I could be way off, but that's was my gut reaction.
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11-20-2007 @ 9:03AM
David said...
Frank, I strongly disagree with your comment about the voting format being equivalent to a "dumbing down for the masses of the USA". The show has never had pretenses about what it is. The voting format has not changed (at least, not since season 2 when I began watching), and the way the weighting works (or at least, the way it was explained here by a commenter who seemed to know what she was talking about) the voting is actually pretty well balanced between popular vote and professional vote.
Rather than looking at this show as something dumbed down, I prefer to be comforted to know that the two highest rated shows in America each year are about singing (AI) and dancing (DWTS). I think it says something good about us!
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11-20-2007 @ 9:54AM
fitnesinst said...
Marie needs to go. I've been saying this for weeks now & am frankly sick of typing this. Jennie outdanced her last night and needs to be in the finale. I really haven't seen Marie progress as much as Jennie.
I really want to see Mel (and, of course, Maks) win. I think they are the best couple. His choreography is fantastic and she really delivers. Their Vienesse Waltz was by far the best one of the season & their Paso was just as good as their first one. Loved the whip - carrying on the Dominatrix theme. :) I can't wait to see what they bring to the finale.
As for Helio - I'm just not seeing what the big deal is. I'm sick of typing this also - he gets this goofy grin and it drives me nuts.
Pricilla - this goes out to you - Mel is not cocky - she is very humble. I think that she is gracious and she NEVER talks smack. The cocky award goes to Julianne. She is just a little over the top right now. I liked her better when their rollercoaster bottomed out. She was more humble. But, last night she just couldn't be quiet. Helio is "star" and she needs to let him do the talking. And her ghetto girl yo-yo-yo routine is way past old.
I want to like Helio, but I honestly don't see his greatness. I saw Julianne doing a lot of dancing, but don't feel wowed watching him. I admit I did during the first shows of the season, but not now. (Did I mention the goofy grin bugs me?) I rewatched both of his dances and didn't see what the judges were ga-ga over.
Go Mel!!
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11-20-2007 @ 10:10AM
nyclimber said...
Obviously by some comments we can see how Marie is getting to the finale. Her dances aren't dances they are shows and she has gotten a huge amount of sympathy votes. But really it is a dance competition, so the best dancers should be in the finale and I'm sorry but Marie is not one of them, she should have been shown the door weeks ago. I agree the finale should be a Mel/Helio. Jenny has come far and she is doing well, but she lacks that confidience that Mel/Helio have when she dances. I also wouldn't mind seeing a finale between brother and sister, ala Julianne and Derek. It could happen. Here's hoping Marie finally leaves, just tired of her whole, "I'm old, I have a giant family, I have 9 kids" act, because thats all it is to me, one big act that she keeps using for the sympathy vote. I'm sorry she lost her father but she should have bowed out then and stayed with her family.
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11-20-2007 @ 10:25AM
P Reynolds said...
I still think Mel has an unfair advantage over the other non-dancer celebrities. Being a Spice Girl and learning choreography for their performances has to have helped her greatly. The whole learning to dance process - brain / body connection - is very difficult - especially when you are learning this stuff as a mature adult. The true non- dancer Helio has been amazing. Jenny has really over come so much. Marie is a true professional bringing so much charm to her performances. But in the end I think Helio and the absolutely perfect (best dancer in the world) not to mention beautiful Julianne should win. I guess I should mention Mel bugs me and Maks who thinks he's God's gift to the world- bugs me too!
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11-20-2007 @ 10:30AM
JACRED said...
Everyone is entitled to their opinion. But let's get real here...Helio & Mel are the best dancers on the show. America voted off the best dancer (Sabrina) so now these two are the best. Marie and the Osmond's are getting boring already. I like them but please....please...enough of them and their hardship she is getting sympathy votes. Yes, she does have a big fan base but she really cant dance that well...its all about entertaining..and smiling and acting goofy...Jennie has improved so much and is more graceful and elegant I think she emerged tremendously...she deserves to be in the finals...she dances rings around Marie...the problem is she is in the public eye since the show started for one reason or another and so is Donnie....so no one will forget them...the is the tactic they are using...These competetions are never fair but Helio & Mel totally deserve this win. They are exciting to watch.
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11-20-2007 @ 10:37AM
JJ said...
Like to see Mel go home tonight. Marie is much better than ever before. Hope she safe tonight. Good Luck, Marie.
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11-20-2007 @ 10:37AM
JJ said...
Like to see Mel go home tonight. Marie is much better than ever before. Hope she safe tonight. Good Luck, Marie.
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11-20-2007 @ 11:01AM
cathy said...
Erin, do you think you could put a picture up from the actually Monday night show and not an older one? I would have loved to see Len perform when he was younger. The little I saw him dance yesterday wowed me. He has such snap and style. I really like Mel and Helio but as I watched the performances I realize that when Helio and Julianne danced I just watched her, especially in the Cha Cha. But all the other dances I watched the star. When I replayed the show and paid attention to Helio in the Cha Cha i realized he really didn't do much but hold out his hand for Julianne. It reminded me of other performances of men stars whos woman professional did all the work while they stood by. The men couldn't dance and I think Julianne choreographering a solo for her at this stage in the competition is nto fair to Helio and also seems to me that she wants to win at all costs. helio should have been doing more than watching Julianne spin.
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11-20-2007 @ 11:50AM
Suzanne said...
I agree with most of what has been said. I think Jenny has improved greatly, but she just doesn't "entertain." I definitely think it should be fun to watch and entertaining is a part of that. Even though Marie may not be quite as good of a dancer--she gets A+ when it comes to the personality of the dance. I too think that Helio and Mel are at the top, but the man's part just never seems to have the difficulty like the woman's part does.
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11-20-2007 @ 3:26PM
Margaret said...
Wow! What a show! I think one of the women will win, simply because none have won since the first season and the prize will go to Mel. WHo will go tonight? I think Marie but I suspect Jennie. Jen always look so somber, like she's wishing the ordeal was over. Len was right about Mel: there is no nuance in her dances - each one looks like she is attacking it instead of feeling the dance. She's good, though, and I suspect she will win. Enjoy the show everybody!
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