TRS has gotten boring.

[septim]

There aren't nearly as many discussions as there used to be, and it seems like banter isn't tolerated anymore at TRS. Any time they start to talk about something interesting they cut each-other off. I don't use podcasts to get semi-professional reviews, I use them to hear honest and interesting open discussions/arguments.

It was better when it was less produced and more casual. The show has become too polished losing a lot of the quirky charm that made me enjoy it so much. The show used to be a hoot, but lately it seems strangely sterile.

[thebigl]

I initially came into the topic to disagree, but alas, i sort of agree with what you say.

The casual nature and spontaneity is twindling. I wish they wouldnt keep it so short and formated. I just want to hear people i admire, chat about the things they are passionate about, letting their minds take the conversation where ever it goes.

I'm prejudice towards alex anyway, but i really do think he instigates the condensed, rigid format. If you look at Project Lore, you get a little more evidense.

It's got to a head where for the last few days, i've been imagining doing my own audio podcast with jeff and dan, just discussing entertainment/tech news freely and rambling...ly. But i would be totally too nervous to bother.

/rant

[satori]

I disagree, the show is fine.... and why put such a caustic thread title in place unless your intent is to troll.

[thebigl]

I disagree, the show is fine.... and why put such a caustic thread title in place unless your intent is to troll.

I agree, about the title. It will just start controversy. It's still one of my most favourite things, i just long for more freestlye Dan and Jeff content.

[septim]

I disagree, the show is fine.... and why put such a caustic thread title in place unless your intent is to troll.

I suppose I could have put "TRS has changed", but really once you read what I have to say you will know I'm not doing this to troll.

An example of what I'm talking about. Last week they had the PQ Galactrix launch "party" segment. That was by far the worst segment ever on the show. Instead of talking about TV (Dollhouse, Flight of the Conchords, Eastbound and Down, and Damages all launched recently) we are treated to watching them play a puzzle game over the shoulder in a dingy comic book store basement. This shift away from funny discussion/banter into these produced segments is really ruining the show for me.

[wideawakewesley]

While I immensely enjoy TRS every week, I love it even more when the guys have a proper discussion about something and I do think the time constraints limit that a bit.

Now let's have a mod change that subject heading. Censorship rocks!

;)

Wes

[runsoverfrogs]

There aren't nearly as many discussions as there used to be, and it seems like banter isn't tolerated anymore at TRS. Any time they start to talk about something interesting they cut each-other off. I don't use podcasts to get semi-professional reviews, I use them to hear honest and interesting open discussions/arguments.

It was better when it was less produced and more casual. The show has become too polished losing a lot of the quirky charm that made me enjoy it so much. The show used to be a hoot, but lately it seems strangely sterile.

I was about to start a topic of something for the gamers, but honestly.. I feel that the segments has been toned down, specially the gaming section.

[gm_wil]

*shrug*

Every show has its ups and downs. I'd guess the rigid format is to get as much info to us as possible without rambling, but that's part of the charm. It does have a less "hanging out" feel these days but maybe they are trying something new, to stay competitive with enough content per episode, or maybe it hasn't changed and our perception is off. If you get to eat filet mignon every day, pretty soon it doesn't have that "oh so good" quality because yer just used to it. That and it's been a LONG winter and everyone's getting that restless spring fever irritable itch. I know I am.

(all the mod needs to do is add a question mark to the title and it changes the statement quite a bit)

-

[joeyrock]

I think I'm going to have agree about TRS being too ridged and going a little stale lately. Still my favourite show of the week though.

Last week I happened to wake up really early.. I also happened to see a tweet by Brian Brushwood of scam school.... He does a live radio/'twit live' type thing occasionally, which I never knew about. His guest was Dan so I thought I would check it out.. 4 HOURS! later... and I'm still watching it. It was a completely free-form show, with massive technical problems :p. But it was still interesting radio/video, Brian and Dan (and the Amtreker guy) had a really good conversation. The time flew by, even at 5am.

You can still watch it here... http://bbliveshow.com/# Not sure when the guests come in.

That is what I turn to podcasts (video or audio) for. I don't want over ridged news and reviews in perfect 10 minute segements (that neatly fit into Rev3's 'best of').. it's just not as entertaining, sorry. TRS's best segments are where they've been recommended something from the forums, the guys have never seen it or heard of it... and they offer their opinions. My favourite film podcast is BBC radio's Kermode podcast.. I like that because Kermode sometimes goes into a 10-15 minute hate filled rant over how some crappy film is the new death of narrative cinema. If the BBC aren't too ridged I don't think Rev3 needs to go down that route. Tekzilla was getting that way at one point, but they've settled into accepting quirks and sillyness into the show a bit more.

[poltah]

Actually I kinda of agree with the not enough discussion part of the post. I'd like it a bit more loose.

[wideawakewesley]

I'd love the occasional special where the guys just discussed stuff that doesn't necessarily fit their current formula. That would have to be in addition to the weekly show though. I'd recommend doing it on a sofa or round a table though, so they could relax. Throw in a few beers and snacks and let the conversation flow.

Wes

[alicelikesme]

I'd love the occasional special where the guys just discussed stuff that doesn't necessarily fit their current formula. That would have to be in addition to the weekly show though. I'd recommend doing it on a sofa or round a table though, so they could relax. Throw in a few beers and snacks and let the conversation flow.

Wes

I'd love to see that.

It kind of reminds me of when they all got together and played Fireball Island.

[royterp]

I'd love the occasional special where the guys just discussed stuff that doesn't necessarily fit their current formula. That would have to be in addition to the weekly show though. I'd recommend doing it on a sofa or round a table though, so they could relax. Throw in a few beers and snacks and let the conversation flow.

Wes

::cough::TRS Extra (http://www.revision3.com/forum/showthread.php?p=330660#post330660)::cough::
;)

[jay_ray]

I would like to see a TRS special once or twice a year, where the guys discuss stuff without holding back because of spoilers in a casual nature. Maybe at the end of summer for the big summer movies, another time for games, and a tv one too when the season ends.

[wideawakewesley]

I would like to see a TRS special once or twice a year, where the guys discuss stuff without holding back because of spoilers in a casual nature. Maybe at the end of summer for the big summer movies, another time for games, and a tv one too when the season ends.

It might make sense to do dedicated shows once in a while, a movies special at the end of summer and after the awards season. TV specials after the pilots and post-season and a couple of games specials during the Oct-Dec flood.

Wes

[trsjeff]

I am interested to discuss this issue more. We struggle each week to keep the show under an hour. We really like the idea that we are a variety show, and aim to cover a variety of topics every episode, rather than lingering on one for too long. However, I don't feel we've been particularly rigid lately in our format. I think discussions like last week's Trilogy graph in the movies segment are free-form and casual. But I am also interested in hearing more about the feeling that seems to be pretty common in this thread that things might be stale. It doesn't feel that way to me, so I'd love to understand the criticism better.

-Jeff

[goatnailer]

I'll agree that the show is a little less casual these days, but honestly it doesn't make the show any less enjoyable for me. One thing I do wish there were more of is segments such as the fireball island one where I can watch you guys interact as friends without you guys having to continually rein yourselves in to stay on a particular topic. I think that's what drew me to the show initially, you guys not only remind me of my friends and I, but you are people I'd love to be friends with as well.

[wideawakewesley]

I am interested to discuss this issue more. We struggle each week to keep the show under an hour. We really like the idea that we are a variety show, and aim to cover a variety of topics every episode, rather than lingering on one for too long. However, I don't feel we've been particularly rigid lately in our format. I think discussions like last week's Trilogy graph in the movies segment are free-form and casual. But I am also interested in hearing more about the feeling that seems to be pretty common in this thread that things might be stale. It doesn't feel that way to me, so I'd love to understand the criticism better.

-Jeff

The graph segment was one of the best for a while. Hopefully the other folks chiming in on this thread would agree with that. Reviews are great and we love them but it does seem like there's been more focus on that than the kind of discussions you mention and we'd love to see more of those. How you meld the two together or handle the demand for both is the quandry. Folks can't get enough TRS, but maybe you could record post show discussions, say an extra 30 mins where there are no bells and whistles (aka the Mike/Steve magic), so that it doesn't hurt Mike in post-production.

Wes

[septim]

I am interested to discuss this issue more. We struggle each week to keep the show under an hour. We really like the idea that we are a variety show, and aim to cover a variety of topics every episode, rather than lingering on one for too long. However, I don't feel we've been particularly rigid lately in our format. I think discussions like last week's Trilogy graph in the movies segment are free-form and casual. But I am also interested in hearing more about the feeling that seems to be pretty common in this thread that things might be stale. It doesn't feel that way to me, so I'd love to understand the criticism better.

-Jeff

The graph point is a perfect example. It was the best part of the show, but even then you guys didn't touch on all the trilogies. I don't think the show is "stale". I think it has become too constrained. When you have arbitrary time limits on discussions (and make those limits somewhat obvious), it just makes the discussion seem less free-form and natural. Freeform and natural dialogue and discussion are the major reason why I enjoy podcasts in the first place.

[cucumberboy]

The graph segment was one of the best for a while. Hopefully the other folks chiming in on this thread would agree with that. Reviews are great and we love them but it does seem like there's been more focus on that than the kind of discussions you mention and we'd love to see more of those. How you meld the two together or handle the demand for both is the quandry. Folks can't get enough TRS, but maybe extended versions of the show could be produced, say and extra 30 mins where there are no bells an whistles (aka the Mike/Steve magic), so that it doesn't hurt Mike in post-production.

Wes

I totally agree. The trilogy discussion was great. But septim has a point. Although TRS is by far my favourite show, in fact the only show I watch on a weekly basis (including TV), it's not as loose and casual as we've seen it can be. Too many segments end on "well we gotta move on" and too few end with an agreement that the guys have all said all they had to say about the subject matter.

The TRS viewers watch the show just as much for the great entertainment we get from the awesome hosts and the awesome steve as for the insightful reviews. Both these qualities that the show has may, in the future, suffer if the hosts feel pressured by a time limit.

I personally would be rhapsodic if the show went on longer.

[joeyrock]

The graph point is a perfect example. It was the best part of the show, but even then you guys didn't touch on all the trilogies. I don't think the show is "stale". I think it has become too constrained. When you have arbitrary time limits on discussions (and make those limits somewhat obvious), it just makes the discussion seem less free-form and natural. Freeform and natural dialogue and discussion are the major reason why I enjoy podcasts in the first place.

Just going to say the same thing... and yes, stale was the wrong word.

[wideawakewesley]

Just going to say the same thing... and yes, stale was the wrong word.

Mouldy?

[gojira]

I wonder if people are bored because of the content and not the show structure? It's not exactly like we're in the big release season in terms of movies or games.

[wideawakewesley]

I wonder if people are bored because of the content and not the show structure? It's not exactly like we're in the big release season in terms of movies or games.

Nah, they could talk about Imagine Babiez, Uwe Boll movies, Knightrider and The Beano for all I care.

;)

[trunolimit]

Nah, they could talk about Imagine Babiez, Uwe Boll movies, Knightrider and The Beano for all I care.

;)

I was about to ask that same question. i think it's more the content and not the show structure.

I'd love to see more underground stuff. I love it when they talk about a comic or movie I've never heard of because I usually will pursue it. perfect example Watchmen, I never heard of it until jeff mentioned it and oh man am I ever glad for it.

[trsjeff]

I personally would be rhapsodic if the show went on longer.

I appreciate the desire for a longer show, but that is really the one thing that isn't on the table. Revision3 is not interested in a releasing a longer show, and we already ask a lot of our audience to download such a large file. If anything, a smaller file/shorter show would likely result in more viewers.

-Jeff

[ryan79]

Maybe I'm just unobservant, but I've not noticed the issues that have been brought up in this thread. However, my feelings wouldn't be hurt if more Fireball Island-type segments were included...somehow.

[aerodash84]

Some of the stuff I miss are more of the other segments like the Dan becomes a man, the rip stick, heelies, From the Forums and such. I still really enjoy hearing the opinions, news, and slight discussion. I think something to mix it up would be cool. I wouldn't even mind a week where movie or video games was left out to discuss comics or TV to keep it under an hour. Something to shake things up from time to time.

Edit: I'd love to hear their opinion on Scott Pilgrim and link it to movies with the upcoming film. Edgar Wright as director and Micheal Cera as Scott. I think more segments kind of relating to each other. Maybe a week without a review in something and discuss say relation to a review. Street Fighter 4 would've been good to put in the same as Street Fighter movies. I know they think lowly of the original film, but I feel there was some cheese to it that makes it kind of fun to watch. A line like "The day your parents died is the most important day in your life. To me it was a Tuesday." is pretty awesome to me. Just my thoughts on how I'd change things up from time to time.

[joeyrock]

I appreciate the desire for a longer show, but that is really the one thing that isn't on the table. Revision3 is not interested in a releasing a longer show, and we already ask a lot of our audience to download such a large file. If anything, a smaller file/shorter show would likely result in more viewers.

-Jeff

Really? There are (..goes and counts) 8 different encodes of the show and an embedded flash version.. and segmented flash versions. To be honest, if I had a podcast and a potential viewer couldn't find a version that works for them out of that much choice, then I wouldn't want them as a viewer :p They are clearly an idiot.

What would be Rev3's stance on "specials" or a secondary show to cover something like a live show, Christmas games, Comic Con, SXSW? You go to more trouble to make shows at events, surely capitalizing on that extra time/money investment (by releasing more content, which you probably have anyway) is just good business?? :confused:

[wideawakewesley]

I appreciate the desire for a longer show, but that is really the one thing that isn't on the table. Revision3 is not interested in a releasing a longer show, and we already ask a lot of our audience to download such a large file. If anything, a smaller file/shorter show would likely result in more viewers.

-Jeff

Jeff,

Why not make the show available in segments as well as the full download? Also, does any extra content have to be delivered via Revision3? If it does, surely an unedited 30 min discussion spot would be easy to produce and I can't imagine Rev3 would be opposed to more content from one of their most popular shows?

I hate bringing this up, but I'd pay for extra content. Is that an incentive?

Wes

[indieinsd]

I am interested to discuss this issue more. We struggle each week to keep the show under an hour. We really like the idea that we are a variety show, and aim to cover a variety of topics every episode, rather than lingering on one for too long. However, I don't feel we've been particularly rigid lately in our format. I think discussions like last week's Trilogy graph in the movies segment are free-form and casual. But I am also interested in hearing more about the feeling that seems to be pretty common in this thread that things might be stale. It doesn't feel that way to me, so I'd love to understand the criticism better.

-Jeff

The problem is you guys seemed locked up with the mandatory new release thing. A lot of weeks there really isn't a game/film that need to be addressed critically or even discussed. And some there are 2/3. Maybe on these weeks you guys could just talk about what you have been playing or recently watched not necessarily new. Or do like a game club (ala rebel fm) or marathon film (filmspotting) segments where you pick out a director/time period/genre and discuss.

I think the main point though is that when the show is good it's because you guys made it good, not the format/segment.

[wideawakewesley]

The problem is you guys seemed locked up with the mandatory new release thing. A lot of weeks there really isn't a game/film that need to be addressed critically or even discussed.

I'd hate the show to only discuss big releases! Sure, I'd still watch, but I like the varied nature of the content that's reviewed. If they only went for big mainstream releases, most of us wouldn't have played Puzzle Quest! Something I will be eternally thankful for.

Wes

[joeyrock]

Mouldy?

Nooo.. mouldy is worse than stale isn't it? I would say, if the show were a banana... it's still delicious. But it's gone a little brown and squishy.

;)

[wideawakewesley]

Nooo.. mouldy is worse than stale isn't it? I would say, if the show were a banana... it's still delicious. But it's gone a little brown and squishy.

;)

Dan would be horrified that you're comparing the show to fruit, especially bad fruit!

;)

Wes

[joeyrock]

Lol... oh yeah. But browning bananas aren't bad. Maybe Dan would have been over that fruit thing by now if Will hadn't given him some crappy fruit cake from a packet. That urked me :(

[trunolimit]

I appreciate the desire for a longer show, but that is really the one thing that isn't on the table. Revision3 is not interested in a releasing a longer show, and we already ask a lot of our audience to download such a large file. If anything, a smaller file/shorter show would likely result in more viewers.

-Jeff

more jeff dancing and dan becomes a man would result in more viewers :D

[trunolimit]

I hate bringing this up, but I'd pay for extra content. Is that an incentive?

Wes

Blasphemy :mad:

HOLD THY TONGUE

Diggnation use to do the whole pay for content thing and they stopped. I think in this type of community it might hurt the show more then help it.

[jordinho]

I am interested to discuss this issue more. We struggle each week to keep the show under an hour. We really like the idea that we are a variety show, and aim to cover a variety of topics every episode, rather than lingering on one for too long. However, I don't feel we've been particularly rigid lately in our format. I think discussions like last week's Trilogy graph in the movies segment are free-form and casual. But I am also interested in hearing more about the feeling that seems to be pretty common in this thread that things might be stale. It doesn't feel that way to me, so I'd love to understand the criticism better.

-Jeff

I think what you guys don't realize is that every time you cut off further discussion of a topic, you're cutting off something some viewers are really interested in (like the trilogy chart). On top of that, if you are cutting that discussion off to talk about something some viewers don't care about (for me it would be something like Dr. Horrible) then it compounds the problem. I'm less likely to enjoy a show if something I really like is barely touched on, and its brief mention is due to something I generally hate.

I would rather see longer and fewer segments than see many segments with limited discussion. To me, segments should last as long as the discussion stays interesting while at the same time, have hosts that know they are under time constraints. I agree with what someone said previously: it seems too rigid. It should be more organic. Instead it seems like you guys are watching the clock like its a political debate. You guys are the point of the show, not the stuff you cover. That's why many viewers' favorite moments are Dan attempting the dreaded "drink a cup of tea" challenge or trying to talk about "The Blacks" and not the review for Dark Knight or Iron Man. Every time a host's ranting is cut off for the fist explosion I, for one, feel kind of cheated out of a potentially insightful or hilarious moment.

[gojira]

Nah, they could talk about Imagine Babiez, Uwe Boll movies, Knightrider and The Beano for all I care.

;)

Yeah, I'm the same way. ;)

[eddielee]

I sorta agree. If you go back and watch the Grindhouse review or the Transformers review, you can totally see the passion and excitement. Now it is a lot more formal and structured.

[wideawakewesley]

You guys are the point of the show, not the stuff you cover.

While I don't agree entirely, I would liken the show to an attractive woman, her looks (the content) lure you in, but the interaction of the hosts (the personality) keep you hooked. I wouldn't go near a woman I didn't find attractive though. However, great comment and I'll agree the guys are the main reason I love the show.

Wes

[jay_ray]

I am interested to discuss this issue more. We struggle each week to keep the show under an hour. We really like the idea that we are a variety show, and aim to cover a variety of topics every episode, rather than lingering on one for too long. However, I don't feel we've been particularly rigid lately in our format. I think discussions like last week's Trilogy graph in the movies segment are free-form and casual. But I am also interested in hearing more about the feeling that seems to be pretty common in this thread that things might be stale. It doesn't feel that way to me, so I'd love to understand the criticism better.

-Jeff

I think the biggest problem for me are the hints and teases of stuff you guys seem to adore but can never discuss because it would be totally off topic, ie. you enjoying Matrix 2 and 3 (something I also found enjoyable). Another thing is the spoiler parts, whenever you guys discuss something you are very passionate about but have to hold back because of spoilers it usually seems that after the show is done all of you break into deeper discussion that I personally would like to hear, or when someone says we will have to talk about that later and never getting to hear that conversation.

I know a lot of this is would be another huge time sync and may not be feasible because of that. I do not have a problem with the show itself, I am satisfied with that. I would like more TRS discussing stuff outside its current form while leaving the current 60 min. show intact. I'm taking about a 2-3 hour audio podcast once every 3-4 months that has a very casual flow and not constrained by spoilers or particular "on topic discussion".

[lavahot]

While I still enjoy the show, I've noticed that as the show goes on, each individual episode is less "special" because there's 100 just like it and by now your are all into the swing of things. You straddle the line between the plot importance of a series and the ongoing-ness of a talk show. I'm surprised it hasn't turned into a soap. *ba dum ching* While the show is entertaining and informative, it has become almost predictable. What needs to happen is a change-up between each individual episode. Go do more on-the-street "segments." When was the last time Dan was a man?

[septim]

I think what you guys don't realize is that every time you cut off further discussion of a topic, you're cutting off something some viewers are really interested in (like the trilogy chart). On top of that, if you are cutting that discussion off to talk about something some viewers don't care about (for me it would be something like Dr. Horrible) then it compounds the problem. I'm less likely to enjoy a show if something I really like is barely touched on, and its brief mention is due to something I generally hate.

I would rather see longer and fewer segments than see many segments with limited discussion. To me, segments should last as long as the discussion stays interesting while at the same time, have hosts that know they are under time constraints. I agree with what someone said previously: it seems too rigid. It should be more organic. Instead it seems like you guys are watching the clock like its a political debate. You guys are the point of the show, not the stuff you cover. That's why many viewers' favorite moments are Dan attempting the dreaded "drink a cup of tea" challenge or trying to talk about "The Blacks" and not the review for Dark Knight or Iron Man. Every time a host's ranting is cut off for the fist explosion I, for one, feel kind of cheated out of a potentially insightful or hilarious moment.

Bingo.

[gm_wil]

Just keep in mind the biggest draw to TRS is you guys, your friendship, and your passion for our Geek world. Lately I've seen you guys get worked up and want to BS about something but then end up putting a hand on someone's shoulder and frowning talking about wishing you had more time. Well, if yer not gonna make the show longer, you'll either have to keep doing what yer doin, or cut out a few subjects.

Maybe you could have a "Show Poll" or something, where you toss up possible subject matter for the next show and the forums can toss their vote in about what they want to hear or something? *Shrug* Just brain storming. The poll would also be an indirect interaction from the forums in a way. Community input I guess. If you don't want a poll for movies, games, comics, tv, maybe have a "topic of the week" or something that has a poll. That way you keep your structure but the forum (community) also gets a little flavor of what they're really interested in. *shrug shrug* If you have 3 movies, you can talk about one and if it's not that good, talk about two. If there are 3 games, talk about one if it's awesome, or two if their not. Maybe after movies and games, Alex has the Wildcard topic being TV or whatever. He seams to be more comfortable with the loosy goosy like on Digg.

If you don't want to cut stuff out, you could always do an "every other week" schedule with the various topics too.

And don't be afraid to set up a camera when you guys get together to make some food or grab some coffee and just sit around the table bullshitting. It allows us to "listen in" like we were in the room with ya, as an informal audience. It'd be nice once n awhile to see you guys chillin talking about one or two things causally rather than speed talking, list reading, and going by a schedule-based agenda type format...ya know, get back to the "casual friday" feel and not so much the "tuesday wednesday" hump day?

It's all good fellas.

-

[neverendingwhitelights]

I appreciate the desire for a longer show, but that is really the one thing that isn't on the table. Revision3 is not interested in a releasing a longer show, and we already ask a lot of our audience to download such a large file. If anything, a smaller file/shorter show would likely result in more viewers.

-Jeff

I have a crazy idea. How about releasing the show in small installments more frequently? Then the show could still technically be longer and shorter at the same time. Just brainstorming. :rolleyes:

[xibalba]

I quit watching the show at episode 32. I felt it was getting repetitive.

[lordstandley]

I just thought I would jump in an give my two cents. The show is still kick ass, every episode is something I look forward to every week and I am not disappointed. And I have been watching since episode one and don't think it's missed or dropped anything since the start.

On a side note, I would love to see the longer debates about movies, games, etc on a side show. Little rant segments or something. We always get teases of certain arguments and I would love to see those battled out or discussed further.

Keep it up though guys, I love it.

[dirtyhat]

I Love TRS... but lately I have found I have been skipping through segments if they are "too serious" and/or "on topic" But, I can see where they are coming from... it may not seem like it but they cram a lot of information in under an hour. And thats basically what their show is about, informing people about Movies, Games, etc. so I don't complain. if they put their show out there as a "no holds bar" show and were "too serious" thats when I would complain.

Me and my buddy found that more and more people (ourselves included) liked the Diggnation/TRS episodes where they weren't actually talking about the topic. The tangents are the funnest parts of the show. But, instead of complaining, we just started our own show. Now we don't have to (or want to) stick to any sort of topic i.e. digg stories, movie reviews, Games, etc... Although we give a very brief amount of time to movies, music, comics... because people told us to talk about what we love... and that just happens to be those topics... but we are thinking of cutting it out because it takes away the time for tangents (which we got the most remarks about). Or as other people said... making it longer but releasing it separate. But, if we were to get too serious one day, thats the day I would stop because it would no longer be fun for myself to produce. I don't care if only 2 people watch as long as it's fun for me. We get together once a week to drink and BS anyways, why not film it and post it so other people can laugh at us too?

anyways, back on topic... my point was when in front of the camera, time flies!! our latest episode, we had a friend give us 5 min marks... and it seemed like 35 mins went by and I hadnt said anything I wanted to say yet... so I could imagine how hard it is for the TRS guys to give that much info about that many topics (and with 3 opinions). You almost have to stay on point the whole time.

either way I love TRS and will be a faithful viewer till the end!

[rabidbadger]

weird. I have "re-engaged" with TRS because they are "on topic"

Sure, I have little or no interest in Vid games. So might zip through that segment. But if Dan and Jeff are talking movies, TV, or Comics, then I am all aboard. To be frank, though, Alex is like a buzzing bee in the room, usually annoying, interuppting, but stings with a great zinger once in a while.

[babnert]

I agree with most of the points brought up in the thread. TRS has gotten a more structured feel. Although I still love the show and look forward to it every week, I sometimes feel its lost some of its charm. I think if after every show you guys went inside and sat down and got into some deep conversation about topics you wanted to discuss on the show and just had a camera sitting there and then uploaded it on even youtube id be happy. If you cant add time on to the actually podcast find a way to get us the deeper conversations about topics, maybe even blog once a week about something discussed on the show that you wanted to go deeper with but couldnt. I know id watch/read.

Edit: also dont get me wrong, I still LOVE the show and were all lucky to be getting anything at all.

[rabidbadger]

I agree with most of the points brought up in the thread. TRS has gotten a more structured feel. Although I still love the show and look forward to it every week, I sometimes feel its lost some of its charm. I think if after every show you guys went inside and sat down and got into some deep conversation about topics you wanted to discuss on the show and just had a camera sitting there and then uploaded it on even youtube id be happy. If you cant add time on to the actually podcast find a way to get us the deeper conversations about topics, maybe even blog once a week about something discussed on the show that you wanted to go deeper with but couldnt. I know id watch/read.


I kinda agree. I got into podcasts, and rev3, because i was sick to death of "regular" slick tv. All podcasts 3 years ago were raw, intimate, and honest. Now they are all CNN, NPR, ABC, NBC... etc, slick, impersonal, and annoying. Everything I was looking to podcasts to avoid.

Look at a lot of my recent posts here. I am usually talking up revision3beta casts, or giving advice on the Cry for help threads. Why? Not cause I want them to sell their souls to cable tv, but because I want them to be the best they can be with ONE camera, a mic or two, and a passion.

I don't think TRS is losing their passion, not at all. Maybe just getting "more corporate than necessary." (same goes for Diggnation, lately)

Don't get me wrong, love this "network." Just don't wanna see them lose their roots. (theBroken (http://revision3.com/thebroken/), anyone?)

[johnnysix]

I still think the show rocks. I think the standard has held very high so far.

Some ideas or constructive criticism though might be that as a way of loosening up the topics a little, they could kind of be in the mould of "Whatcha been watching?" or "Whatcha been playing?". I know this is kind of standard for a lot of podcasts out there, but I think it encourages a more freeform discussion around topical subjects. I really do think that the reintroduction of a spoiler cam (flogging a dead horse?) could help loosen the discussion up a bit and help steer it away from the trap of having mostly plot description with a small opinion on the end.

I think what we're seeing here is actually a good thing and something to take as the highest of compliments. I remember when I first started watching The Sopranos or The West Wing, I was mostly engaged on the level of story, but after a couple of seasons I would have been happy to spend a whole show just hanging with the characters. Every good character based show ends up having to walk the fine line between furthering the plot (informing the viewer) and exploring the characters (hanging out). The hard part is ensuring these two factors blend together seamlessly. I think you do all do a very good job, but there's always room for improvement.

[dirtyhat]

Look at a lot of my recent posts here. I am usually talking up revision3beta casts, or giving advice on the Cry for help threads. Why? Not cause I want them to sell their souls to cable tv, but because I want them to be the best they can be with ONE camera, a mic or two, and a passion.

I don't think TRS is losing their passion, not at all. Maybe just getting "more corporate than necessary." (same goes for Diggnation, lately)

Don't get me wrong, love this "network." Just don't wanna see them lose their roots. (theBroken (http://revision3.com/thebroken/), anyone?)

totally agree with everything you said... and BTW thank you rabidbadger for all your advice/support we definitely appreciate it...

...speaking of theBroken did anyone see the latest digg townhall, Jay Adelson wearing a theBroken shirt... rub it in our face why dont ya haha jk

[atarichop]

First off, TRS is the best web-show out there, bar none. I generally watch it from beginning to end because of the level of comfort Dan, Alex and Jeff have with each other as well as the topics covered.

Some of my favorite segments are the out of the studio segments. Someone mentioned the Galactrix comic book store segment from a week or two ago and that they didn't like it. I enjoyed it, to a certain degree, just because it was an out of the box type of segment...the box being the studio.

Ok, as far as in studio (garage) goes, I think it's pretty darn good as well. On the time constraint issue, I agree with some of what has been said. The show would do well to maybe cut off one segment and expand on the other segments a little more.

And one thing I wanted to say but just started posting, is Thank you Jeff for answering emails. This is a huge task, I'm sure and you've written back on both emails I've sent and it is appreciated greatly. Also, steve never fixed the "gauranteed" spelling error on the TV segment intro ;-)

Anyway, this is a great show and I wish one day it would get picked up by an actual TV station (G4?) and shown on TV so you guys could get some just rewards for the level of entertainment you bring so many each week. Keep up the good work.

[summx]

I am interested to discuss this issue more. We struggle each week to keep the show under an hour. We really like the idea that we are a variety show, and aim to cover a variety of topics every episode, rather than lingering on one for too long. However, I don't feel we've been particularly rigid lately in our format. I think discussions like last week's Trilogy graph in the movies segment are free-form and casual. But I am also interested in hearing more about the feeling that seems to be pretty common in this thread that things might be stale. It doesn't feel that way to me, so I'd love to understand the criticism better.

-Jeff

At the end of the day you gotta remember that people don't watch the show just for your reviews or thoughts, most people watch it because it's entertaining. Frankly, people just want to feel like they're hanging out with you guys and using a specific formula for segments is not as entertaining as just free flowing segments. That being said i understand it's a tough balance to find what is boring and what's entertaining. I think the stuff like the time you guys watched jason x and the dan becomes a man segments are the best simply because it's real and natural. I would much rather the green screen stuff be cut down and do what others have suggested, more of a conversation format about games and stuff on a sofa while hanging out.

[summx]

just a quick note, if you guys listen to the slashfilm cast, which i think at least Dan does, you'll understand what we mean. That podcast is so unstructured that it's a mess, but it's a hilarious mess. The funniest and most entertaining things come from unplanned and non-formulaic moments

[rabidbadger]

I agree. But still, they gotta segment it somehow. "now we talk movies, ten minutes"
"now we talk games, ten minutes"

etc...

Loose it up a bit...

Maybe Mikey might add a new pizzaz, with editing, etc... (not that steve fugged up in anyway whatsoever! Just a change of editing might shake stuff up a bit)

[summx]

I agree. But still, they gotta segment it somehow. "now we talk movies, ten minutes"
"now we talk games, ten minutes"

etc...

Loose it up a bit...

Maybe Mikey might add a new pizzaz, with editing, etc... (not that steve fugged up in anyway whatsoever! Just a change of editing might shake stuff up a bit)

less green screen
2 segments per show
20 minute segments unless it gets boring

The goal should be:
Intro
segment 1
segment 2
possible segment 3 if things get boring
emails/ sponsors

[esophagus]

I saw this and how long it was and assumed I was going to be walking into a flame war. Apparently the show has slipped a bit and I haven't noticed. I've thoroughly enjoyed it lately. I've even stopped skipping the video game section and I don't really play any games. I just like hearing the guys talk (in a totally not creepy way).

[johnnysix]

I don't think the show has slipped. I think it's as good today as it was when it started. I just think there's always ways you make something great, even better.

[damnedeyez]

I think the stuff like the time you guys watched jason x and the dan becomes a man segments are the best simply because it's real and natural. I would much rather the green screen stuff be cut down and do what others have suggested, more of a conversation format about games and stuff on a sofa while hanging out.

There are so many times, while watching, that I have the urge to chime in on the discussion...except it's a recording and they can't hear me, so I wind up just thinking it myself or talking to the tv.

That pretty much sums up the reason I watch and like TRS so much...I guess. I never really liked the trend towards 'polished TV show' Rev3 has been going towards, but that's a rant I gave up giving way back when.

[hcolyn]

I still love TRS and I’ve been watching since episode 1.

The only thing I can think of that will make it better, is a weekly supplemental audio podcast, almost like the iFanboy pick of the week podcast but with a more “watcha been playing” segment feel of the listenUp podcast. Obviously, the “playing” will be substituted with reading/watching/playing, covering those things not included in the video show.

[rabidbadger]

I still love TRS and I’ve been watching since episode 1.

The only thing I can think of that will make it better, is a weekly supplemental audio podcast, almost like the iFanboy pick of the week podcast but with a more “watcha been playing” segment feel of the listenUp podcast. Obviously, the “playing” will be substituted with reading/watching/playing, covering those things not included in the video show.

I like that idea. Much easier to edit than a vid cast, too.

[wideawakewesley]

I still love TRS and I’ve been watching since episode 1.

The only thing I can think of that will make it better, is a weekly supplemental audio podcast, almost like the iFanboy pick of the week podcast but with a more “watcha been playing” segment feel of the listenUp podcast..

I think a supplementary audio podcast is a bloody awesome idea. Very much like /Film after dark. I'd imagine it would mean a whole lot less work too.

Wes

[damnedeyez]

I think a supplementary audio podcast is a bloody awesome idea. Very much like /Film after dark. I'd imagine it would mean a whole lot less work too.

Wes

We keep bringing it up...I wonder if the guys have seriously considered it or if we need to petition Rev3 to back it.

Like I said last time...just get a pocket recorder and stick it in the middle of a table during an after-show cool-down/discussion on what they brought up but couldn't expound on from the show.

[esophagus]

We keep bringing it up...I wonder if the guys have seriously considered it or if we need to petition Rev3 to back it.
I'm pretty sure Rev3 wouldn't back it. iFanboy does theirs separately of Rev3. In fact, I'm not even sure their Rev3 page mentions it, let alone lets you download it, you have to go to ifanboy.com or iTunes to get it.

[cucumberboy]

I'm pretty sure Rev3 wouldn't back it. iFanboy does theirs separately of Rev3. In fact, I'm not even sure their Rev3 page mentions it, let alone lets you download it, you have to go to ifanboy.com or iTunes to get it.

TRS could do the same...

[esophagus]

TRS could do the same...I know, thats what I was getting at.

[cucumberboy]

I know, thats what I was getting at.

Yeah, I just had to point out the obvious like in the movies :P

[damnedeyez]

I'm pretty sure Rev3 wouldn't back it. iFanboy does theirs separately of Rev3. In fact, I'm not even sure their Rev3 page mentions it, let alone lets you download it, you have to go to ifanboy.com or iTunes to get it.

Then comes the question of hosting the files and covering the costs of the hosting, though.

[wideawakewesley]

Then comes the question of hosting the files and covering the costs of the hosting, though.

Well they do have a website seperate to Rev3 and there's always dropbox or torrents? This shouldn't be hard to do.

Wes

[damnedeyez]

Well they do have a website seperate to Rev3 and there's always dropbox or torrents? This shouldn't be hard to do.

Wes

And with it only voice, it shouldn't require a high quality mp3, so size could be kept down. Plus, with no ads, there's no need for a download count, so people linking/sending it to someone who wants it but can't find it wouldn't seem to be an issue.

[goliath553]

I know i'm not really furthering this discussion at all but....

TRS is my single most anticipated piece of entertainment each week. Honestly they could talk about the different varieties of grass ... or review a weekend of PGA golf, and I would still be utterly entertained.

I thought the SFIV reviews were good, where they were playing it, not just talking about playing it. Also the segment from yesterday with the breakfast winner (Oscar Contest) was Hilarious...

If there is a strong feeling amongst the forum'er's that something is missing than by all means explore it. But I truly disagree... I mean sure I wish there were more Dan "the blacks" moments or Dan not being able to drink tea moments but that's is what makes those times so special. They don't occur every episode they are a rarity, which only serves to fruther heighten their appeal and enjoyment.

I know it was long winded......

No Complaints here.... keep up the great work.

[diane]

Wow. And here I thought I was the only one.

I love TRS and will always love it regardless of the format, length or content. It has a place in my heart along with shows like Buffy and Sports Night. But that is more about the emotional connection that goes along with it. Even Buffy had some bad eps.

I think the issue is that everything seems so rushed. The reason I originally enjoyed the show was because it reminded me of my years in college. I hung out with a group of theater guys and we watched movies, tv and kicked each others butts at video games. But what was so much fun was hearing these amazing discussions of things from people who were both passionate about it and knew what the hell they were talking about. We once had a heated debate over the score of Fistful of Dollars, Few Dollars More and The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. And we did that while BBQing. Watching TRS took me back to that, which given that none of us even live in the same state, was amazing for me. And then, to top it off, I got to see my son watch this interaction and see how much fun it can be and how amazing good friendships are.

Now I am not knocking the move towards more formality. I also listen to Filmspotting and the show is reminding me more and more like it. I understand it, it is easier to plan, probably more appealing to more people, and it is a given that after a while the guys just simply become more professional with the experience. The spontaneity is going to leave a bit simply because they can't prevent themselves from thinking about what they are going to review while they are watching/doing it. At the beginning it seemed like they would watch/play and then think about it. That was bound to change.

What is funny is that I am seeing throughout the main issue being movies. I agree. It seems as if the show has been rather game heavy lately, and I think that is adding to it. I don't know if it is true or not, but it feels as if they are trying to pack more and more into the movie segment, and in turn, everything is getting a much lighter touch.

I know that there is a ton to cover, but frankly, they did have their websites pimped out, when in doubt, drop the lesser movie and post the review on their blogs. Drive more traffic there as well, which would have to be a good thing overall.

If there is no good movie to review that week, take the week to talk about movie news, what they are looking forward to, soundtracks, etc. Half the fun was hearing about a movie that I wasn't interested in and getting excited about it coming out because the guys said something about. Or what movies I missed (this movie did this theme so much better) that I needed to put on my queue or go buy. It seems as if that has been lost...

I am concerned about the Watchmen ep. Even if the movie blows it is still a big deal. Personally, if the ep consisted of, intro, opening, movie, game, closing, with movie being the heaviest, I would be so happy. Loved or Hated, this movie looks like it will drive strong feelings. I can't help but think if they allow themselves, this movie will bring back what we are all complaining about.

Maybe I am just getting old and crotchety.

[callen]

I definitely like the idea of the supplementary audio podcast as it can give fans a bit more content in a far smaller format (file size) than video with many readily accessible means by which to share it. Honestly, with the popularity of TRS, I would not think it would be too difficult to get someone to host these audio files in return for a mention on the show. Set up some mics, let the guys sit down for an hour and talk shop and see what happens from there. No real editing just uncensored free thinking and sharing of insights.

This said I appreciate the high quality standard of production the show has and have been a fan since episode 1. And I completely understand that it takes a lot of time to put a show like this together, so adding more to that process may simply not be a possibility. Maintaining the quality of the show and allowing it to evolve as necessary based on your thoughts, as well as that of your fans should of course be first and foremost.

So carry on guys and keep the radness coming...

[dolson]

I am interested to discuss this issue more. We struggle each week to keep the show under an hour. We really like the idea that we are a variety show, and aim to cover a variety of topics every episode, rather than lingering on one for too long. However, I don't feel we've been particularly rigid lately in our format. I think discussions like last week's Trilogy graph in the movies segment are free-form and casual. But I am also interested in hearing more about the feeling that seems to be pretty common in this thread that things might be stale. It doesn't feel that way to me, so I'd love to understand the criticism better.

-Jeff

There's the problem! And this has been the case since near the beginning. If anyone goes back and re-watches from the beginning, you'll see that the show really has not changed much at all. It's the same as it's always been, and it's always had the hour-long time constraint, and it's annoyed me since day one. I don't know if that restriction is self-imposed, put in place by Rev3, or a limitation due to Steve needing two or three other jobs and not having the time. Whatever it is, I will wish it fixed, should I ever come across a lamp with a genie in it.

Edit: OK, I'm an idiot. I missed like 6 pages of the thread somehow. I guess I left the browser open or something. Rev3 doesn't want to make the show longer, so... That will be my wish.

I appreciate the desire for a longer show, but that is really the one thing that isn't on the table. Revision3 is not interested in a releasing a longer show, and we already ask a lot of our audience to download such a large file. If anything, a smaller file/shorter show would likely result in more viewers.

-Jeff

MP3s are smaller.

I'd subscribe to an audio-only podcast, kinda like how 1UP used to do it with the 1UP Show and 1UP Yours.

Or, you could break TRS into two or three hour-long shows, where one focuses on movies, and the other focuses on games. Then TRS is not technically longer, just now it's two shows. ;)

The audio thing would be awesome. Less work editing it, too. And it could have all the spoilers.

I just had deja vu. I think we've said all this stuff before.

I love TRS and I'll keep watching whatever happens. I think it's maintained quality throughout. My only issue is that I want more. That's what happens when you don't have cable TV to fill the silence between TRS episodes and gaming sessions.

[cucumberboy]

It's up to Mike now!

[esophagus]

Two or three video shows would be a crazy amount of editing. Even doing the one video show and an audio show is a lot of editing for one person to do in time.

It seems like "more show" is what EVERYONE is getting at though, which I guess is a good thing to want, but its kind of above me why it is coming out in this way. I haven't noticed any change in the quality of TRS. I would thoroughly enjoy an audio show but I totally get why that probably won't happen.

Keep doing what you're doing Jeff/Dan/Alex/New Guy! Don't let this thread get you down.

[joeyrock]

It shouldn't get them down.. it's feedback, positive feedback (aside from the thread title). We want more TRS, in audio form. The way the 1up show did things would be perfect, aside from the whole "getting cancelled" of course. :(

[royterp]

Maybe the solution is a weekly live stream after-show on Wednesday evening, to give everyone a chance to watch the show first. It wouldn't have to be edited or hosted, beyond an archive that's kept automatically. It wouldn't even need to be scheduled around all of their schedules, just rotate 2 of the hosts week to week.
Thoughts?

[wideawakewesley]

Maybe the solution is a weekly live stream after-show on Wednesday evening, to give everyone a chance to watch the show first. It wouldn't have to be edited or hosted, beyond an archive that's kept automatically. It wouldn't even need to be scheduled around all of their schedules, just rotate 2 of the hosts week to week.
Thoughts?

I think scheduling their time for that may prove more difficult than them just recording audio of themselves chatting after the TRS filming and sticking it online.

Wes

[stubadub]

Wow, I get sick with the stomach flu and when I come back to the boards there's been a mutiny.

I adore this show, and the only other show I watch as faithfully is Lost, which in my mind says quite a bit about TRS. Having said that, I do feel like there aren't as many magical moments these days. My favorite moments tend to be the special segments, the times when Dan misspeaks and hilarity ensues, and the real geek moments that feel just like conversations my friends and I get into, such as the merits of the final two under-appreciated Matrix films. :)

Speaking of which, the Trilogy chart is a good example of where the show cock teased me. That was such an awesome topic, but because of the time constraints the segment came to a premature end, leaving me blue balled and unsatisfied. I would have gladly lost more of the video game segment or film segment to have spent more time on that discussion.

Of course, the TRS audio supplemental podcast could be the answer to a lot of these problems. You guys have said in the past that when filming stops you get into spoiler filled discussions about the movie you saw. If you put those candid conversations to tape, continued the discussions that get cut short and talked about whatever else came to mind and put those out as an mp3 supplemental podcast we'd all be ecstatic.

[drunken-bastard]

MP3s are smaller.

I'd subscribe to an audio-only podcast, kinda like how 1UP used to do it with the 1UP Show and 1UP Yours.



This is one of the better ideas I've heard. It seems like The Totally Rad guys have been getting better and better at seeming less like a podcast and more like a professionally produced television show. And while they do a good job of that the show seems to have lost it's casual fun moments (like when Dan completely derails a conversation).

[branchex]

How bout this, limit the number of reviews to 4 per episode that way they can have at least one segments worth of random geek banter or something else. The no-review time is used for a raised on rad like segment or a media one with no reviews or just extended movie or game segments.

Also on an unrelated note, has anyone noticed that their center chair is closer to the left chair (Steve's/our left) than the right one?

[heyseuss]

I have one major issue with TRS ........................ ........................ .........
























http://www.exfactor.net/misc/sign-Cowbell.130124930_std.jpg

[sugarsickness]

The audio podcast sounds like it could really be awesome. I don't think hosting would be an issue if rev3 wouldn't do it, services like libsyn and so on are cheap and handle bandwidth and download statistics on their own.

Not to imply that I have lost interest in the show, I still watch eagerly, but sometimes I do just want to punch my screen and yell "So what if it's a spoiler let's do this!" SOMETIMES YOU GUYS GET ME SO PUMPED

For instance, Watchmen coming up. I imagine it will be talked about on the show, however, I might want something more specific/in depth and spoileriffic.

[johnnysix]

I think we need to keep in mind that the guys clearly do not make a living from TRS, and the guys do have other side-projects they need to spend time on too. If anything I'd like to see a more natural progression of the show than any sudden format changes.

[esophagus]

I think we need to keep in mind that the guys clearly do not make a living from TRS, and the guys do have other side-projects they need to spend time on too.This. The idea of an iFanboy-esque audio podcast is nice, but we need to keep in mind that two of the guys from iFanboy do it full-time, one does it part-time and works for Rev3, not to mention they have interns. There are multiple people working on and editing everything. Leaving all of this to Mike to edit would be crazy, not to mention the shooting time for the 3 of them.

I guess the plus side is they could really just record it over Skype or something in their free time.

[stranger_danger]

For instance, Watchmen coming up. I imagine it will be talked about on the show, however, I might want something more specific/in depth and spoileriffic.

Isn't that what the forums and email are for? The guys seem eager to connect with their audience. Wouldn't it be more fun to be part of the more specific/in depth conversation than only listening to it?

[dirtyhat]

I have one major issue with TRS ........................ ........................ .........
























http://www.exfactor.net/misc/sign-Cowbell.130124930_std.jpg

AWESOME!!! lol

[dirtyhat]

Isn't that what the forums and email are for? The guys seem eager to connect with their audience. Wouldn't it be more fun to be part of the more specific/in depth conversation than only listening to it?

A point that could be made in a 1 min vid/audio podcast would take countless threads and time...

That gives me an idea... Ustream interaction???

[stranger_danger]

A point that could be made in a 1 min vid/audio podcast would take countless threads and time...

A point that could be made in a one minute video would lead someone else to making a point which would eventually lead to a much longer video. It's never seemed like segments get cut short because one quick point needs to be made, but rather a discussion is being started that will obviously take a lot of time.

[dirtyhat]

A point that could be made in a one minute video would lead someone else to making a point which would eventually lead to a much longer video. It's never seemed like segments get cut short because one quick point needs to be made, but rather a discussion is being started that will obviously take a lot of time.

Sorry let me clarify... I was saying if we *could* interact, it would be a lot quicker/easier to find a vid/audio way of doing it in real time, than in a discussion forum... I got the idea of Ustream halfway through that post and got distracted lol

[bruce-leroy]

I'm in the minority, I guess, but I'd like to see a TV or a comic book review in every episode. I sometimes look down at the progress bar as the guys are going into sponsors/emails and it takes up a third of the show. I like hearing you guys answer questions but a third of the show for that segment is way too much. I'd much prefer it if you did a comic or TV review every show and only answered emails every 5th or 6th show. At any rate, if you're looking for time somewhere, that's a place where you can cut a boatload of it. Especially since you guys are so in touch with us through the forums that you can answer a lot of email here.

Also, given that time is such a constraint, I think you should really stick to reviewing one thing per segment. There's a big lull in both the movie and video game season. There will always be a week when there's nothing much out, so there's no need to try to cram in two awesome releases in a week and then have nothing good to review the next week.

Don't take all this stuff the wrong way because the show is still awesome.

[dh_jin]

how about it they made two shorter shows? and one segment with spoiler-cam on so they can full disscuss older things they brought up in old shows. more discussion is well apreciated, i feel that it's always rushed? and points are always not fully talked about.

i'd really love a longer show but if rev3 says no, maybe two shorter shows? i know thats probably a lot of time taken for everyone involved but if it's a shorter show? i guess steve/mike would be have to do more work.

[gabrie11e]

I don't know if the fellows would agree, but I don't think there have been as many interesting/good movies, games, shows released since this past fall/late summer.

[diane]

That is true, the movies have been more cerebral than booms, so that could be influencing the perceptions too. Its one thing to discuss plot points in a movie like the Westler, its something else to talk about the fun you had at Iron Man.

Looking at the movie schedule starting this weekend, the action season is just starting, so this is probably bit of a mute point. Besides, this show is still better than 99% of the crap on tv even when it does feel off.

It could be I just enjoyed hearing Blood Sport get mentioned when I watched the show today. God I love that movie. Its over the top and insane and I love it. Granted I also remember taking my baby sister and brother to go see Streetfighter when that came out and liking it too.

I have issues.

[tsmith15]

What was that segment where they talked while eating dinner? They need to do that more often, it was fantastic.

[eddielee]

What was that segment where they talked while eating dinner? They need to do that more often, it was fantastic.

Chew on This? (There were two of them) I agree btw.

[darthender]

My complaint about TRS for awhile now, that totally went out the window today was that I felt the focus of the show had become less "geek centered" and more "art centered", especially in the movies category.

Where they go and see every single independent artsy movie that comes out, but skip over movies like Clone Wars and The Spirit. Now, mind you, I know those were both awful movies. But when a Star Wars movie and a comic book movie are not covered on a podcast I believe was about geek culture, I think there's something wrong.

Then they kinda fulfilled their obligation by doing Legend of Chun Li this week. :p

[esophagus]

Clone Wars I kind of see, I don't think anyone anywhere reviewed The Spirit after its general release. It was quite apparent it wasn't worth time.

[soundscape]

I'm glad I'm not the only one who has been feeling this way. The show has definitely lost its fluidity lately, and I think that has a lot to do with the time constraints you guys seem to be giving yourselves.

I love the show. Its my favourite thing to watch, period. It just seems to be on a slide at the moment. I hope this thread brings that to a stop, and you guys can somehow figure out a way to get it back on the right track.

[johnnysix]

I think something that's getting more obvious as this thread grows is.... "You can't please 100% of the people, 100% of the time".

It seems everyone has their own idea of what would make the "perfect show". I only just finished watching the last episode and thought it was as good as any. I really like the way Jeff made a concerted effort to come back to some games and topics from the week before.

[damnedeyez]

I really like the way Jeff made a concerted effort to come back to some games and topics from the week before.

Yeah, I liked that they did that.

[johnnyswift]

I have been a loyal viewer since episode 1 and I must agree, TRS seems....different of late. Now, don't get me wrong; TRS is by far the best podcast out there and I love it dearly. I look forward to every Tuesday's release. It just seems like the spontaneity of each episode has fizzled out a bit. It seems like this has stopped being a little "indie" podcast and has become a corporate like podcast. Are you guys trying to watch your language now? I remember you dropping F-bombs all the time. Now, it seems you are purposely trying to avoid those words.

TRS always seemed to be that show that I could connect with because you guys (for the most part) were just like me. You talked like me, you played the same video games as me, watched the same movies, tv...etc. Now, it seems like you are making a show that tries to connect with everybody and anybody. Understandable, you want a wider audience. This show deserves that...but the reason why everyone initially fell in love with this show was because it wasn't a G rated show. It was normal guys talking about stuff we love in a language that we understood. It just seems like you are censoring yourselves too much now. Perhaps I am wrong with that view point.

I get it - you guys have other things to do in your life besides this show. So the fact of you adding more time or doing "extra" things for this show would probably be out of the question. That's cool. I don't need another hour of TRS a week. I just want a solid hour of TRS a week. The laughing parts seem to be few and far between now.

Just don't let the "essence" of the show change. Let it evolve, sure...but don't be too formulaic. Change it up like you used to.

Dan needs to become a man again!

With all that being said: Jeff, Dan, Alex and Steve (soon to be Mike) - we all love you dearly. Thank you for 2 years of radness. You make being a geek, cool. Truly.

[lindqvist]

I am interested to discuss this issue more. We struggle each week to keep the show under an hour. We really like the idea that we are a variety show, and aim to cover a variety of topics every episode, rather than lingering on one for too long. However, I don't feel we've been particularly rigid lately in our format. I think discussions like last week's Trilogy graph in the movies segment are free-form and casual. But I am also interested in hearing more about the feeling that seems to be pretty common in this thread that things might be stale. It doesn't feel that way to me, so I'd love to understand the criticism better.

-Jeff

I think you hit the nail on the head several times in that post.

The way I see it, TRS has been great and is still great. But, as has been said, the problem is that often discussions get cut off just as things are getting interesting.

As making the show longer is not an option, would it be possible to try to limit the amount of stuff that you try to cover in each show instead? That way, one would think, things would be less rushed. (Quality over quantity, if you so will.)


Regarding the Trilogy graph, that is indeed a good example of what I think many love about the show.

[darthender]

The Trilogy Graph was also a good example of the problem though, as halfway through the graph they kinda stopped because it was obvious they hit some kind of time limit. I wanted to see them do the whole graph.

[alicelikesme]

This thread kind of makes me sad. Although the criticism is all polite and meant as merely "suggestions", I still feel like some of it is a bit harsh. TRS is still an absolutely AMAZING show, and I've been taken aback by this thread as of late.

[kilroyperrywinkle]

I like the free form "fucking around and this happen" stuff. The end always seems to drag to me, the stories are hilarious but anytime you have 3 people just standing there or sitting there staring at the camera it gets tedious I always find myself skipping to the bloopers.

At this point in the show's life we know you guys well enough that we dont need to be presented with how you are. Take more time to just let us see you interact, and see you do stuff. Get out of the garage a bit more, and be more casual.

When I think of the parts that killed me the most over the past 102 shows its always been the unplanned stuff. The out and about in London, the Dan Becomes A Man segments, Jeff's Gingerbread House Destruction Party... all that.

Don't get too wrapped up in the mold of 3 segments, intro, and email... Play around, let us see you guys f-ing around more. I'd rather see something new fall apart then the same stuff every week.

Still love ya though...

[whiskeyclone]

Well, I never really noticed that the show got a little more rigid until I started watching the old episodes. I mean, TRS is by no means bad nowadays. But I agree that it should be more quality than quantity. Someone suggested a 2 segment show, and if there's time left, maybe a third segment. I think that's perfect. Just take your time, guys.
And also: Just drop some goddamn f-bombs already. That's a thing that really stood out to me when I watched some old episodes. Why are you guys censoring yourself like that? If you wanna say a swear word, just fucking say it. ;)
I mean, it's not like there's a lot of little children watching. Your not reviewing movies and video games for kids. I think the show's audience could survive hearing swear words sometimes. It just seems so much more natural when you just say what you would say off camera too.
But other than that TRS is my favorite podcast right now, since Diggnation has really gotten kinda boring lately.

[alicelikesme]

Well, I never really noticed that the show got a little more rigid until I started watching the old episodes. I mean, TRS is by no means bad nowadays. But I agree that it should be more quality than quantity. Someone suggested a 2 segment show, and if there's time left, maybe a third segment. I think that's perfect. Just take your time, guys.
And also: Just drop some goddamn f-bombs already. That's a thing that really stood out to me when I watched some old episodes. Why are you guys censoring yourself like that? If you wanna say a swear word, just fucking say it. ;)
I mean, it's not like there's a lot of little children watching. Your not reviewing movies and video games for kids. I think the show's audience could survive hearing swear words sometimes. It just seems so much more natural when you just say what you would say off camera too.
But other than that TRS is my favorite podcast right now, since Diggnation has really gotten kinda boring lately.

Actually there are kids watching, but I understand the desire for a realistic vocabulary, curse words intact.

[whiskeyclone]

I know that there are kids watching. But as I said, I can't imagine that there are a whole lot. And let's be honest: Most kids learn 4-letter-words pretty early. I mean, after all it's just words anyway. I don't think swearing is that big of a deal.
But you know, it's just something that bugs me a little, it doesn't completely ruin the show for me. ;)

[alicelikesme]

And let's be honest: Most kids learn 4-letter-words pretty early. I mean, after all it's just words anyway. I don't think swearing is that big of a deal.

Can't argue with you there.

[rabidbadger]

I swear like a drunken sailor in a whore house, (or an enthusiastic pornstar (http://cursebird.com/rabidbadger)), but even I complained in a thread a few weeks ago about the constant "f" words that really became distracting and might make a kid Anakins age (who knows the words, no doubt) feel like saying them anywhere everywhere seem "normal" (at school, around adults, church, etc). Anaking has a great mom, so not worried about him, but others, who knows?

[masherscf]

I swear like a drunken sailor in a whore house, (or an enthusiastic pornstar (http://cursebird.com/rabidbadger)), but even I complained in a thread a few weeks ago about the constant "f" words that really became distracting and might make a kid Anakins age (who knows the words, no doubt) feel like saying them anywhere everywhere seem "normal" (at school, around adults, church, etc). Anaking has a great mom, so not worried about him, but others, who knows?

My son is a late talker, he doesn't talk at all. I'd be delighted of he dropped a few F-bombs.

[trsjeff]

I'm trying to hear what everyone is saying here without getting too depressed. I definitely appreciate the honest feedback.

If you equate f-bombs to honesty or authenticity, you may as well move on to another podcast now. We are definitely pulling back on the language, hoping to remove the 'explicit' tag. We have gotten far too many emails from parents who want to watch the show with their kids for us not to just choose different words. It pains me that what people value in their entertainment is simple profanity - that that somehow equals cool, right off the bat - whatever, that's just me. I don't see it as censorship at all. If you need me to say fuck to connect with me, I'm sorry. It just isn't necessary in this show.

On the other points, I'll try to take what everyone is saying here into consideration. I don't think we cover more topics now than we used to, and our time issue isn't new either. Perhaps the problem now is that we mention it. I will try to allow conversations a bit more breathing room and see if that feels better.

-Jeff

[cole-w]

If you equate f-bombs to honesty or authenticity, you may as well move on to another podcast now. We are definitely pulling back on the language, hoping to remove the 'explicit' tag. We have gotten far too many emails from parents who want to watch the show with their kids for us not to just choose different words. It pains me that what people value in their entertainment is simple profanity - that that somehow equals cool, right off the bat - whatever, that's just me. I don't see it as censorship at all. If you need me to say fuck to connect with me, I'm sorry. It just isn't necessary in this show.


-Jeff

Very well said Jeff, while profanity may not offend me, to equate profanity with being more honest or genuine is just silly.

[babnert]

I will try to allow conversations a bit more breathing room and see if that feels better.


I feel like most people in this thread would agree that thats all they really want, just to have the show not feel as contained. As for the profanity thing, I think that was only one person bringing that up and most people would agree that it isnt a big deal and could go either way regarding it.

[wideawakewesley]

I could give a rats bottom about swearing, but I'd give my left arm for an after dark style audio podcast to accompany the main show.

Thoughts on that Jeff?

Wes

[alicelikesme]

I'm trying to hear what everyone is saying here without getting too depressed. I definitely appreciate the honest feedback.

If you equate f-bombs to honesty or authenticity, you may as well move on to another podcast now. We are definitely pulling back on the language, hoping to remove the 'explicit' tag. We have gotten far too many emails from parents who want to watch the show with their kids for us not to just choose different words. It pains me that what people value in their entertainment is simple profanity - that that somehow equals cool, right off the bat - whatever, that's just me. I don't see it as censorship at all. If you need me to say fuck to connect with me, I'm sorry. It just isn't necessary in this show.

On the other points, I'll try to take what everyone is saying here into consideration. I don't think we cover more topics now than we used to, and our time issue isn't new either. Perhaps the problem now is that we mention it. I will try to allow conversations a bit more breathing room and see if that feels better.

-Jeff

That's what I was concerned about with this thread, I just feel that it's bringing up issues that aren't as serious as people are making them out to be. And I agree with your statement as far as the profanity issue goes.

Again, this thread just makes me sad...

[stubadub]

I could give a rats bottom about swearing, but I'd give my left arm for an after dark style audio podcast to accompany the main show.

Thoughts on that Jeff?

Wes

I'll throw in a testicle. You can choose which one.

[inkwell]

I don't think that there is anything depressing about this thread at all... Well, maybe the title. Besides that, I think it is fantastic that the community can get together and discuss the topic, and try to better the show. I agree that the show has kind of lost that feeling that it's about friends hanging out discussing these various topics. It almost felt like I was there with them, and I felt like I always wanted to chime in and make a point here and there. I love that the community can have such impact and get so involved. It's wonderful that the community can be heard like this.

I also wanted to add that the show as it is right now is still great. If the show stayed as it is now, I still would look forward to it every week.

So, on to ways I think the show could benefit from. I really like the idea of a supplementary audio podcast, but I understand if there are time and hosting issues. It always seems like they cut off their arguments to talk about until after the show, which I think would be very interesting. I like how each of the guys gets a chance to give their input on each game, movie, TV show, etc., but maybe they could try to keep all of those points even shorter than they are. This way everyone gets their word in and it leaves a little more time for discussion.

Anyway, that's all. The show is still great. Don't get discouraged about this thread. Just embrace it and make the show a little more rad.

[roessnakhan]

I've only skimmed through the thread, but I don't think TRS has gotten boring by any stretch of the imagination. There is definitely an aura that it has gotten a bit more serious, the discussions are much more precise, and the look is much more professional (the better lighting really gave it a different feel.) Would I like a TRS or Diggnation that was longer than an hour, an hour and a half? In a heartbeat, but I understand the constraints that are imposed on churning out a weekly podcast.

I do feel that the movies section has become more of an experimental area, seeing movies one would normally not go out to see. But I love that. If TRS had only been reviewing blockbusters I probably would have never seen JCVD, probably one of my favorite movies of 2008.

As far as suggestions for improving, I would like to see a little bit more experimental stuff between the static (movies, games, tv, comics) segments (e.g. more Dan Becomes a Man, loved the Fireball and other "Growing Up Rad" segments). Hell, I wouldn't even mind seeing a music section. I seem to remember Jeff mentioning "The Decemberists," my favorite band, and would love to hear more bands he likes. I think they addressed why they would not do a music segment on the show, however.

As far as cursing is concerned, I can leave that to Diggnation to get my fix. Diggnation is far more informal than TRS, being a show that feels like you're just having a beer with a few of your friends.

[alicelikesme]

PS I hope it wasn't taken that I'm on board as far as desiring profanity goes.

I'm far more pleased with Jeff's witty word play.

[roessnakhan]

I'm far more pleased with Jeff's witty word play.

And Dan's lack thereof. ;-)

[rabidbadger]

Yeah, Jeff. I noticed the last few eps were profanity-lessened, but only cause I was looking for it. Good on ya. Unlike Diggnation, TRS should be a little more family friendly. You review what kids love, comics and vidgames, movies. No need for profanities for that.

[mebe]

Sorry, but I think you took the guy's comment on swearing out of context.
I believe he's implying that the choice of censuring yourselves feels kind of forced and that its taking away from the genuine conversations you guys used to have (or the ones you may have while just hanging out).
He never states that he believes swearing makes a person cooler or more honest so I don't think flaming him for that is fair. And I'm not trying to be rude about this Jeff, but as a overly defensive person myself, I figure I have the right to tell you.

I personally enjoy watching the show to hear the real conversations between you three. I still enjoy it as is but I wouldn't mind if the dialogue were to once again include rants, diatribes, shouting matches, and spoilers. Spoiler discussion though, is the one aspect I miss most.
I used to really enjoy the deft arguments you guys had about what happened in the movie/show/game. Even if I didnt watch/play the subject matter I'd enjoy it (esp. the stuff I didn't care to watch - atleast I got interesting insight on the stories etc)

ugh this is long
ps still love the show so don't be too depressed man.

[joeyrock]

I think it's great that the show is moving towards "no swearing" to draw in a wider viewership.. I haven't noticed anyone holding their tongue so far. Base swear words aren't big or clever by any means. However as soon as I hear a "bleep" I'll be pissed off. Bleeps are completely pointless as the word is still self evident and audio blip or drop jars you out of the shows flow.
I take it it's just fuck that's going to be avoided, maybe less shits? Be interesting to find out what the requirements are for a "clean" podcast..

[esophagus]

That's what I was concerned about with this thread, I just feel that it's bringing up issues that aren't as serious as people are making them out to be. And I agree with your statement as far as the profanity issue goes.

Again, this thread just makes me sad...Meeee too. I've tried to make light of it a few times but this beast has gotten bigger than itself.

I think the important thing to remember is that TRS is by no means on the WRONG track. It seems like people are just trying to help improve it and coming off harsher than they intended.

Personally, I haven't noticed any of the issues brought up. I think TRS is excellent. Would I love a supplemental audio podcast? Sure, but you can equate that with my love of the show, rather than my need to improve it.

Don't get depressed Jeff!

[whiskeyclone]

Sorry, but I think you took the guy's comment on swearing out of context.
I believe he's implying that the choice of censuring yourselves feels kind of forced and that its taking away from the genuine conversations you guys used to have (or the ones you may have while just hanging out).
He never states that he believes swearing makes a person cooler or more honest so I don't think flaming him for that is fair. And I'm not trying to be rude about this Jeff, but as a overly defensive person myself, I figure I have the right to tell you.

Thank you! That's exactly what I meant.
I just couldn't write it nearly as concise.

[diane]

If you equate f-bombs to honesty or authenticity, you may as well move on to another podcast now. We are definitely pulling back on the language, hoping to remove the 'explicit' tag. We have gotten far too many emails from parents who want to watch the show with their kids for us not to just choose different words. It pains me that what people value in their entertainment is simple profanity - that that somehow equals cool, right off the bat - whatever, that's just me. I don't see it as censorship at all. If you need me to say fuck to connect with me, I'm sorry. It just isn't necessary in this show.

-Jeff

I just made Anakin read this. You phrased it quite well. There are roughly 175,000 words in the dictionary, how about using some of them.

Though language is not an issue for me, for many friends of Anakin it is an issue for their parents. At the end of the day, cursing for the sake of cursing is boring. Not to sound snobbish, especially since I can curse up a storm when I am angry, but if a person is throwing in curse words to be all edgy, I tune them out. I kinda equate that behavior with freshman boys on the maturity scale.


And I am sorry Jeff, I don't think any of us wanted to make you depressed. I think the issue is that you guys are simply getting more polished and we are just missing the unpolished. Its like when I have moments of missing Anakin being small enough to curl up on my stomach. Though I love being with him now, heck, he is starting to actually kick my butt in some video games, there are still those moments I get misty eyed for what was.

[alicelikesme]

I just made Anakin read this. You phrased it quite well. There are roughly 175,000 words in the dictionary, how about using some of them.

Though language is not an issue for me, for many friends of Anakin it is an issue for their parents. At the end of the day, cursing for the sake of cursing is boring. Not to sound snobbish, especially since I can curse up a storm when I am angry, but if a person is throwing in curse words to be all edgy, I tune them out. I kinda equate that behavior with freshman boys on the maturity scale.


And I am sorry Jeff, I don't think any of us wanted to make you depressed. I think the issue is that you guys are simply getting more polished and we are just missing the unpolished. Its like when I have moments of missing Anakin being small enough to curl up on my stomach. Though I love being with him now, heck, he is starting to actually kick my butt in some video games, there are still those moments I get misty eyed for what was.

This is perfect. It says it all.

[babnert]

I just made Anakin read this. You phrased it quite well. There are roughly 175,000 words in the dictionary, how about using some of them.

Though language is not an issue for me, for many friends of Anakin it is an issue for their parents. At the end of the day, cursing for the sake of cursing is boring. Not to sound snobbish, especially since I can curse up a storm when I am angry, but if a person is throwing in curse words to be all edgy, I tune them out. I kinda equate that behavior with freshman boys on the maturity scale.


And I am sorry Jeff, I don't think any of us wanted to make you depressed. I think the issue is that you guys are simply getting more polished and we are just missing the unpolished. Its like when I have moments of missing Anakin being small enough to curl up on my stomach. Though I love being with him now, heck, he is starting to actually kick my butt in some video games, there are still those moments I get misty eyed for what was.

well said.

[masherscf]

Childhood, growing up and a sense nostalgia is such a huge part of TRS. It's only natural that grown-ups would want to share it with their kids.

Passing along the things that I loved as a child to my own children is a source of unrepentant joy. I nearly cried when my 4-year old daughter started singing in the bath-tub, "A Part of Your World" from the Little Mermaid. And, I laughed whole-heartedly when she pointed to a man in a fedora and leather jacket on the train platform and call him "Indy."

I'll watch with my kids, language or no.

[trsjeff]

Let's all forget I said depressed - poor choice of words. I am not fishing for compliments, and I certainly don't need everyone to love us all the time (well, it would be nice, but I prefer honesty). What I meant to say is that I'm trying not to defend our choices, but rather hear the truth in what is being said. I apologize if I came off as flaming the profanity comments - I was responding not to a single post, but to what I have heard a lot around the net. It is a pet peeve of mine.

Regardless, it is a tough situation. We're always going to be making the kind of show WE want to make, but I do want to take into consideration what you, the hardest of the hardcore fans, would like. I don't think if there is a problem with the show, the best solution would be to make a second, longer show, whether that is an audio show or not. That doesn't address the problem! It doesn't improve the show we're already making.

This will all percolate, and I appreciate the feedback. There will be no knee-jerk reactions, but the show will continue to evolve. Feedback and interaction with the audience has always been a high priority. So I thank you all.

-Jeff

[rabidbadger]

Told you she was a great mom! :) (and I only know her from the threads)

[rabidbadger]

This will all percolate, and I appreciate the feedback. There will be no knee-jerk reactions, but the show will continue to evolve. Feedback and interaction with the audience has always been a high priority. So I thank you all.

-Jeff

Sweet. I'm curious what Dan and Alex and Mike would add to this thread. I don't think anyone who said anything here has meant it in a derogatory way. :cool:

[tokenuser]

Regardless, it is a tough situation. We're always going to be making the kind of show WE want to make, but I do want to take into consideration what you, the hardest of the hardcore fans, would like.If you guys continue to make the show you want to make, the hardest of the hardcore fans, plus a heck (notice I didn't say hell?? I guess I am getting ready for a mid western transition) of a lot of others will enjoy the show.

You don't need to swear to be edgy. If someone wants edgy, let them go podcast for 4chan (they all have potty mouths over there).

But, after winning the last two bets, I can understand where the depression comes in. Next time, make sure Dan doesn't cook. He scares me in the kitchen. Alex's eggs looked surprisingly good ... but the pancakes looked a little frightening.

[aerodash84]

If you guys continue to make the show you want to make, the hardest of the hardcore fans, plus a heck (notice I didn't say hell?? I guess I am getting ready for a mid western transition) of a lot of others will enjoy the show.

You don't need to swear to be edgy. If someone wants edgy, let them go podcast for 4chan (they all have potty mouths over there).

But, after winning the last two bets, I can understand where the depression comes in. Next time, make sure Dan doesn't cook. He scares me in the kitchen. Alex's eggs looked surprisingly good ... but the pancakes looked a little frightening.

I agree with you. I worked on college radio and really to be controversial for us we'd play Power Rangers music that got the phone calls pouring in. But being entertaining doesn't require swearing. It can work and Kevin Smith has proved it a lot. I don't think my mind could handle a 4chan podcast. Also, all the pancakes really needed were syrup or whipped cream... neither of which were available since someone forgot them.

As for the show lately, I really like how more professional it seems. You guys have gotten the timing down a lot more. I remember early episodes reviews did go on for quite awhile. I'd skip most of a segment because I don't like spoilers unless I don't care for the movie.

It's really awesome to see a show feel so community based. User submitted backgrounds, letters/e-mails, meet-ups and such. Really I applaud what TRS started as (which to me seemed rough and hard to watch at first) to a well produced entertaining show. I just look forward to every Tuesday and sometimes hope for a forums segment or Dan becomes a man. I laughed for quite awhile watching the Oscar breakfast segment.

[septim]

I'm trying to hear what everyone is saying here without getting too depressed. I definitely appreciate the honest feedback.

If you equate f-bombs to honesty or authenticity, you may as well move on to another podcast now. We are definitely pulling back on the language, hoping to remove the 'explicit' tag. We have gotten far too many emails from parents who want to watch the show with their kids for us not to just choose different words. It pains me that what people value in their entertainment is simple profanity - that that somehow equals cool, right off the bat - whatever, that's just me. I don't see it as censorship at all. If you need me to say fuck to connect with me, I'm sorry. It just isn't necessary in this show.


-Jeff

When the show first started it wasn't like a swear-fest or anything. Swearing doesn't = cool, but swearing is a part of life and a mode of expression and by restricting it is just another example of how the show is being constrained. To somehow say that restricting language to not get an explicit tag is somehow not censorship doesn't really make sense to me. Seems to me that you are trying to move the show in the direction of a G4 TV program (arbitrary time limits, "censorship") rather than accentuate the stuff that makes podcasts appealing to most people. (honest and open dialogue that is free-flowing and not restricted)

I am not trying to be an a-hole about this. I'm just saying as a person who has seen every TRS, the first year was a whole lot more entertaining, fun, and funny than the second year.

[masherscf]

I am not trying to be an a-hole about this. I'm just saying as a person who has seen every TRS, the first year was a whole lot more entertaining, fun, and funny than the second year.

I think you're imagining it. TRS hasn't changed, you have.

[septim]

I think you're imagining it. TRS hasn't changed, you have.

Wow masherschf you know me so well you can see right through me.

[masherscf]

Wow masherschf you know me so well you can see right through me.

Well, everyone changes. It's only understandable that a program might grow a little stale. I've watched every episode as well, it's not a particularly special achievement. And, I don't understand the problems. Not at all.

[tokenuser]

Also, all the pancakes really needed were syrup or whipped cream... neither of which were available since someone forgot them.So is it any wonder Jeff is depressed?? Chocolate chip pancakes without the syrup (and I noticed a bottle of Aunt Jemima's on the table ... or was that Mrs Butterworths?? eitherway - not syrup) or cream (I'd accept Cool Whip or Redi Whip as a substitute in a pinch) is enough to make some people break out the Prozac.

[aerodash84]

So is it any wonder Jeff is depressed?? Chocolate chip pancakes without the syrup (and I noticed a bottle of Aunt Jemima's on the table ... or was that Mrs Butterworths?? eitherway - not syrup) or cream (I'd accept Cool Whip or Redi Whip as a substitute in a pinch) is enough to make some people break out the Prozac.

Oh man. You know even sounds better! ICE CREAM!!! Oh man, I think I want Chocolate Chip Pancakes w/ ice cream and whipped cream. Side of Bacon is also a must. Can we change this thread to awesome breakfast foods?

[septim]

Well, everyone changes. It's only understandable that a program might grow a little stale. I've watched every episode as well, it's not a particularly special achievement. And, I don't understand the problems. Not at all.

Really you don't have a "I've watched every Totally Rad Show" bumper sticker? I bet you don't even polish or display the trophy either.

[lordstandley]

If the show is moving away from explicit language, then I applaud the move. Not that I really care about cursing in any form. I mean who doesn't love the F word? :D

The only reason I would liek to see the move is that last week my son grabbed one of my iPod earbuds from me while I was watching the show and he watched with me for a good 10 minutes. While part of me wanted him to watch with me, the other part of me was waiting for the inevitable F-word, and it didn't come! I was pleasantly surprised, but I didn't press my luck with no cursing too far and pulled the earbud away before you guys started to talk about The Lost and The Damned.
I would love to be able to watch the show with him, he loves games and it's fun to have him there next to me on the couch watching one of my favorite shows with me.

[aerodash84]

The only reason I would liek to see the move is that last week my son grabbed one of my iPod earbuds from me while I was watching the show and he watched with me for a good 10 minutes. While part of me wanted him to watch with me, the other part of me was waiting for the inevitable F-word, and it didn't come! I was pleasantly surprised, but I didn't press my luck with no cursing too far and pulled the earbud away before you guys started to talk about The Lost and The Damned.
I would love to be able to watch the show with him, he loves games and it's fun to have him there next to me on the couch watching one of my favorite shows with me.

How old is your son? Also, you may want to check out What they Play is an audio podcast on video games more around family gaming.

[masherscf]

Really you don't have a "I've watched every Totally Rad Show" bumper sticker? I bet you don't even polish or display the trophy either.

What kind of a rabid fanboy has a Bumper Sticker like that? I went for the tattoo.


TRS family friendly? Fuck Yes!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3080/2562262747_553259eeaa.jpg

[diane]

What kind of a rabid fanboy has a Bumper Sticker like that? I went for the tattoo.


TRS family friendly? Fuck Yes!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3080/2562262747_553259eeaa.jpg

Adorable!!!!!

I felt so guilty that I didn't get any pics with the guys and Anakin during Comic Con. Thankfully others did.

[masherscf]

Adorable!!!!!

I felt so guilty that I didn't get any pics with the guys and Anakin during Comic Con. Thankfully others did.

Alex came over to say "hi" and I wanted a picture of him, but my hand were full. It seemed like the thing to do. remember, my son is "Xander" short for Alexander. I wanted to get a picture of my daughter with Jeff, but she was too shy.

I figure that the guys will be famous someday and this will be a nice keepsake for Xander. Emily got to meet Hilary Clinton and I didn't get a picture of that either.

[alicelikesme]

What kind of a rabid fanboy has a Bumper Sticker like that? I went for the tattoo.

I wish you really did have a TRS tattoo.

I'm still waiting for one to pop up.

[rjstaines]

I disagree with the title statement that the show has gotten boring, but I agree with the sentiment that they need to let go more often and just roll with the tangents/prolonged discussions. I feel the show is often too short and that they don't really talk about most topics for very long.

I still love the show.

[lordstandley]

How old is your son? Also, you may want to check out What they Play is an audio podcast on video games more around family gaming.

He is 6, almost 7. I listen to What They Play but he may not like it since it's audio only. He likes watching TRS for the gameplay videos. :D

[aerodash84]

He is 6, almost 7. I listen to What They Play but he may not like it since it's audio only. He likes watching TRS for the gameplay videos. :D

Very cool stuff. I had stuff like that with my dad more SeaQuest and Star Trek. I barely can get my friends to watch so it's cool your son takes interest in it.

[gm_wil]

I just finished the latest episode today in the car - and felt it was what this thread is all about. It was informative, you guys talked a bit longer on each subject, you seemed more relaxed, there was more passion in the discussions, and you even had an informal moment when you did the whole breakfast thing (gratz Jeff) with Dan cooking (so funny) . . . it was an awesome episode. It had a little bit of everything, not too little, and not too much - just enough to want more . . . and watching the episode I was smiling for damn near the entire time and laughing outloud when Dan was contemplating how much water if he used the whole box of mix . . . this last episode had an abundance of that TRS charm we all know and love and what this thread is about.

(oh, and I still laugh outloud when I think of Jeff's face stretching in the Total Recall opening - god that's some funny shit!)

-

[tamtamg]

While I enjoy TRS becoming more "professional" to appeal to a wider audience, I have notice there have been a lack of "dan breaks the show" moments. The segments seem to be more rigid and rehearsed than the free flowing style of the earlier episodes.

[dexter]

I dont find TRS boring, i love it just as much as the first show.

[cucumberboy]

In my experience people swear a lot less on TV in the US than in most European countries but tend to swear more in real life. Maybe kids get their profanity from other kids and adults and not necessarily from TV? I don't think that has been taken into consideration... That said, the discussion over the decrease of profanity is kind of irrelevant. The guys can obviously express themselves without swearing.

Jeff, you need to realise the suggestions in this thread are not just being put forward to make the show better and increase our own viewing pleasure. It's been said a number of times here that sometimes it feels like you guys are being restrained by a time limit and we wan't to get rid of that for your sake just as well.

[wideawakewesley]

I don't think anyone reading the contents of this thread should get depressed. I'm pretty sure every single post has said how much they love the show, it's (still) their favourite podcast yadda yadda. People are just trying to put a finger on changes they've noticed and what could be done to improve the show. All of that is very constructive and very positive.

So Jeff, don't get downhearted because an accurate thread title would be:

TRS seems a little different. I still love it, but can we hear a bit more of the discussion please.

;)

Wes

[masherscf]

I wish I could get permission from the OP to change the title of the thread to something a little less inflammatory.

[lordstandley]

So Jeff, don't get downhearted because an accurate thread title would be:

TRS seems a little different. I still love it, but can we hear a bit more of the discussion please.

;)

Wes

Much better title, and I hope no one is depressed reading these comments. I think it's a vocal minority who actually do not like the show, and certainly not a majority.
I think most people actually love the show and just want more of it which is tough to do as Jeff mentioned.
I think the show teases discussion when it holds back full conversations on the show. Which is exactly what it should do. The show should leave people wanting to discuss in more depth here in the forums and I think the guys do this perfectly.

[alicelikesme]

I wish I could get permission from the OP to change the title of the thread to something a little less inflammatory.

I wish you could as well.

[iccanui]

I am interested to discuss this issue more. We struggle each week to keep the show under an hour. We really like the idea that we are a variety show, and aim to cover a variety of topics every episode, rather than lingering on one for too long. However, I don't feel we've been particularly rigid lately in our format. I think discussions like last week's Trilogy graph in the movies segment are free-form and casual. But I am also interested in hearing more about the feeling that seems to be pretty common in this thread that things might be stale. It doesn't feel that way to me, so I'd love to understand the criticism better.

-Jeff


2 words jeff. Vocal Majority.

Its been proven time and time again that a vocal majority is actually a audience minority. Im not saying thats the case here, but just realize that it is indeed sometimes the case. I look at the names in this thread and many of the people talking about how stale or whatever the show is, are not names i see often in a lot of threads ( not that they matter less mind you ). Regardless of what you do people will come and go, be interested then get bored, then there are the " TRS Fans." Your base if you will. As a long time fan and honestly a fan till the show dies i think, i have to argue against most of the points in this thread some what. I will say this though, i do enjoy when the show is more laid back and casual and "off the cuff" if you will then when its structured and rigid.

Case in point.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzfAyyb4bz8

And btw, anyone complaining about the show being to rigid might wanna look back at the people complaining about how loose the show was and how they didnt like stuff like the above segment. The guys listened and now those people complaining are gone. Just saying.

Oh and ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxi7_ZjwD6o

Love you guys for YOU. ;)

Now like any good improv a structure or "framework" needs to be set in place for the magic of improv and free form to take place, so perhaps the rigidness or structure some of you are talking about is the feeling of the framework when the " magic " if you will , doesnt happen. When you just get a solid show instead of spectacular i mean. Think of it like a jam band, like phish and grateful dead and allman brothers or whoever in that category you like. Each show they play songs, songs that are structured and practiced upon. Some nights you just get that song and for lack of a better term, get the fail of the jam part. Then other nights its all jells and you get something magical. This show is kinda the same thing in a lot of ways. Just stop and think about the effort and timing and editing that goes into this show and cut it some slack when it doesnt achieve astronomical heights for a show or 2 or segment or 2. Remember how much you enjoyed it before that one OMG EPIC SHOW and learn to appreciate it for what it is, not hold it to the standard of that one experience.

Just my quick thoughts.

p.s.

Think about things like the spoiler cam in the movie section. Something like that while its a pain to fast forward, it at the same time lets you connect directly on a personal level with your audience. The strength of this show has always been the feeling of a community of bro's and sista's.

[babnert]

p.s.

Think about things like the spoiler cam in the movie section. Something like that while its a pain to fast forward, it at the same time lets you connect directly on a personal level with your audience. The strength of this show has always been the feeling of a community of bro's and sista's.

They could always edit the spoiler section to the end of their show like a lot of podcasts do to fix that. Something like sponsers, email - spoilers after the jump.

[roessnakhan]

They rarely ever do the spoiler cam anymore, as they've seemed to move away from discussing specific parts of movies to just an overall review of it.

[darknessgp]

They could always edit the spoiler section to the end of their show like a lot of podcasts do to fix that. Something like sponsers, email - spoilers after the jump.

I would actually enjoy that a lot... I think they do a lot of word play to avoid having spoilers, would be nice for those of us who have seen the movies and like to get to hear what they really think.

[nshady]

Well, I just read through the entire thread.

1. I still love this show. I'm not going anywhere.

2. I hadn't consciously noticed any changes to the show while watching, though I do agree that it feels more constricted than it did at first.

3. The additional audio podcast seems like a great idea. If you are already having those additional discussions, I can't see it being too hard to just stop for a second, grab a laptop, and hit record for the duration of your conversation.

4. The show is not at a crisis point. It's just going through a Lost Season 2-like period where the pressures of the format have taken away from some of the original charms of the show.

[gojira]

Personally I kinda like the 'structure' of TRS. While I do long for more geek discussion, I wouldn't mind that discussion flowing over into the forums. Then the show can stay clean.

[nshady]

Personally I kinda like the 'structure' of TRS. While I do long for more geek discussion, I wouldn't mind that discussion flowing over into the forums. Then the show can stay clean.

I think the problem with that is that while we might pick up the discussion, the guys don't. Alex is very rarely around, and Dan posts infrequently. It's not the same as hearing their fully fleshed out discussions.

[darthender]

If you equate f-bombs to honesty or authenticity, you may as well move on to another podcast now. We are definitely pulling back on the language, hoping to remove the 'explicit' tag. We have gotten far too many emails from parents who want to watch the show with their kids for us not to just choose different words. It pains me that what people value in their entertainment is simple profanity - that that somehow equals cool, right off the bat - whatever, that's just me. I don't see it as censorship at all. If you need me to say fuck to connect with me, I'm sorry. It just isn't necessary in this show.That's fine for you, but it's obvious some of the other hosts are censoring themselves.

Why don't you just do what every other show in the world does. Says what you want to say, how you want to say it. And then just bleep it out? We all know what you said, and you don't need an explicit tag then.

[babnert]

That's fine for you, but it's obvious some of the other hosts are censoring themselves.

Why don't you just do what every other show in the world does. Says what you want to say, how you want to say it. And then just bleep it out? We all know what you said, and you don't need an explicit tag then.

I hate bleeps, I think if they really want to keep it family friendly then they should just censor themselves. Although id prefer it to be unfiltered, if your going to curse just curse.

[khaynu]

I think a supplementary audio podcast is a bloody awesome idea. Very much like /Film after dark. I'd imagine it would mean a whole lot less work too.

Wes

I was just thinking the same thing as I've browsed this thread. This would be perfect. Cause my only grip, if you will, is that it seems not everyone thoughts are fully stated on the show and are cut off or someone will say "we'll discuss this after". I want to hear this after discussion lol! An after hours extra audio podcast would be perfect!

Edit:
Just read another response from Jeff, and in contrary I think adding another, lets say audio cast, would make the regular show better because the only thing I have a very slight issue with is what I mentioned above. This is solved if I knew there was an "after dark" show to fill in the blanks...

2nd amendment:
Just another thought/suggestion on what people cant put there finger on. If I remember correctly is seems that a few of the past 3 or 4 + shows have had the extra segment (ie the one between movies and games) related either to movies or games so it runs together with either one of those segments. So it seems like one big long movie segment or one big game segment, and it looses the variety.

But in reality after all that has been said in this thread, just keep doing what you guys are doing, and I'll keep watching!!!! :)

[peve]

I am glad someone posted this thread as I feel exactly the same way.
The show is feeling much more structured and less free flowing than it used to and I feel that the show is loseing its best moments becuase of this.

I also feel that the movies that have been reviewed have not been to my taste and I feel myself skipping that segment quite a lot now.
I guess that comes down to my personal taste rather than anything else.

[logant]

I think it was in episode 1 where they were all sitting around at this fast food restaurant eating a burger where they were talking about how exciting Halo was on the XBOX. It was just a really chill segment, I want more stuff like that. TRS has always been "Movies segment-video games segment-then optional segments (TV, Comics, Books, etc). I don't think they need to do a movie segment or a video game segment every single time.

[jasoncantlogon]

I too was headed here to say "What the heck's wrong with you!"(because of the title), but I agree with the conversation part. I do really wish the discussions weren't so overtly time limited. I understand there are reasons that the show needs to stay within a certain length, but I feel sometimes as if we are missing out on some of the fun that made TRS great in the first place.

I know there has always been a bit of a time limit on stuff but I'd rather hear a really long discussion on something than bits and chunks of alot of stuff. It must be hard though to get that balance between trying not to alienate anyone by having a 20 minute conversation on a bad movie and feeling as if all opinions are being accounted for.

Jeff, Dan, and Alex ARE entertaining enough that I think if they want to elongate a conversation, cool, go for it. It has gotten a bit disappointing to see them cutting each other off so often in the importance of time. Oftentimes it seems as though they are rushing through segment or reviews.

I don't know what the solution is. Perhaps giving themselves more time and just edit out more would do. Or maybe separate mini-shows dedicated to lengthier conversations. Or they just keep doing the best they can to find that balance.

[mebe]

imo the overall problem is a time constraint forced upon by rev3.

just a little tangent:
I'm not a big fan of the way they run rev3 in general. I always thought it was supposed to be a free-flowing creative company. Instead its just another stodgy corporation of suits "running the show". Still wonder what the specifics were as to why randolph left.

[mrpopular]

I do wish they'd go a bit more in depth and not be scared of the clock.. It'll be interesting this week in the Watchmen, cause i hope they stick with it and talk about everything for a long while.

One thing (and i may be all alone on this) I kinda wish there wasn't always a video game review.. Some games seem like filler and i find myself fast fwding threw most the show.

I really miss TV.. It hasn't shown up in a long time, and when it does they usually cover multiple shows so they don't get to have much time on a particular show... Each week since lost started i've been waiting to here them talk about it. I like hearing they're thought's because with so many episodes this season already behind us we will only get a skimmed version... oh ya this is where i do this ::Cough:: Burn Notice ::Cough::

[manhunt545]

I wonder if TRS will ever get the "HD+" like Co-op. with the backgrounds and opening sequences. I would like a nice clean picture instead of Mr. Blockey

[jivetrky]

I look forward to TRS as much or MORE than looking forward to my favorite TV shows. Heck, I check my RSS feed several DAYS before Tuesday release time. And when Tuesday comes, I'm checking it often, hoping that it'll get released a little early.

But that said, I do understand some of the comments made in this thread. I get bummed by the constraints the guys put on their discussions because of time. But I understand them and accept them.

As far as profanity, I could care less if it's there or not. In a way I think I understand what people may be saying about it. When it's there, you get less of a sense of "hey, I'm watching a TV show" and more of a hanging out with the bro's kind of feeling. But I think that substituting "crap" for "shit" is worth the possibility of TRS being open to more viewers and growing larger and larger.

One thing that I have noticed in the last couple months or so is that I didn't get as much "Steve" as I want. I love the guys and what they discuss, but I quite often laughed more at the "Steve-isms" that would show up in editing than anything else. After hearing of Steve's departure I assumed that this was perhaps because Steve was busy with other things and didn't have as much time to put those into the show.
I hope that Mike has an equally playful sense of humor and can get some Mike-isms going and be the other 25% of the show. While the show appears to be 3 guys on stools, to me it's always been "4 guys in a garage". (Or perhaps 3 guys on stools and 1 guy in the editing room)


And I'll also say that I applaud Jeff (and Dan too) for his(their) continued participation in the forums. I think that says a ton about someone making a show for an audience when they are directly connected to that audience and genuinely care about feedback.

And holy crap, just checked my RSS and the new ep is out.....off to watch! :D

[rabidbadger]

I look forward to TRS...(stuff)...off to watch! :D

I think you summed this thread up perfectly. Carry on, folks, nothing left to see here! :p

[rsk_taker]

The main point is here, we all CARE about the show enough to discuss it in this matter and that it's a part of all of our lives.

The one thing I will say is about the profanity - not a fan of "using it for the sake of using it" either - everyone says that for some reason when trying to excuse people not using it. Chris Rock is awful now because his ridiculous overuse of words inappropriately takes away from what what he's trying to say.

The issue with restricting your word choice is that it is censorship. When you start changing how you speak to reach a certain audience everything you say and think is no longer natural and you slightly pre-script everything you're saying. I'm not asking for swear words, but I liked seeing a group of young adults in their 20s/30s talk naturally about geek stuff like friends do with each other normally - the time constraint falls into this as well but there's nothing that can be done about that.

btw, every single movie segment Alex chimes in on what Dan/Jeff are saying and tries to soften what he said to re-assure that something wasn't bad or wasn't good to match whatever they say... I don't get that, he doesn't need to match his review as best he can to the others feelings - love it or hate it, we heard your thoughts when you spoke about it and we want to hear that. You're allowed to have a different opinion Alex :) <-- He won't ever see this

[gm_wil]

I think you summed this thread up perfectly. Carry on, folks, nothing left to see here! :p

http://homepage.mac.com/wilknoble/shutitdown.jpg

"SHUT it DOWWwwwnnnnn..."

-

[cucumberboy]

http://homepage.mac.com/wilknoble/shutitdown.jpg

"SHUT it DOWWwwwnnnnn..."

-

This week's episode make this thread completely obsolete IMO.

[satori]

why is this thread still being floated???? Let it die... NO MORE POSTING!

[jivetrky]

This week's episode make this thread completely obsolete IMO.

I agree, minus the now-extinct Steve-isms, I thought this was good, classic TRS. It felt like the guys just let loose and discussed as much (or almost as much) as they wanted/needed to. Although it's quite possible we just got more discussion because they only discussed one movie and one game. :shrug:

Great ep!

[rsone]

I agree, the show is boring when you haven't played the game or watched the movie.

[jivetrky]

I agree, the show is boring when you haven't played the game or watched the movie.

I thought the point of a review was to get an opinion on whether you would want to go watch or play it for yourself...?

[mrpopular]

Watchmen was really good review.. wasn't really rushed.

except the end where Alex was trying to end it in the middle of them talking. I was a bit like.. calm down Alex, let them finish..


http://picasion.com/pic7/2bd6a9b70b6298b23927f621db047f87.gif


But all in all still love the show

[heyseuss]

http://picasion.com/pic7/2bd6a9b70b6298b23927f621db047f87.gif


Alex is lookin' like a jazzercise instructor.

[iccanui]

You know how i know your gay ? You find TRS boring.

Yea.. that IS pretty gay.

http://stuffbyronlikes.com/images/40yearold-1.jpg


couldnt resist lol

[esophagus]

Guuuuuuuys, just let this thread sink into the abyss.

[scoobydiesel]

If we do that i wanna toss in some chum before its too late.

TRS is still awesome.