Taps

My media edition computer has a Tivo like deal and has figured out that I like horror movies, so it saw the word Ghost and recorded four or five eps of Ghost Hunters for me. I rolled my eyes and watched the first one... well let's just say that by the time I finished the last one it was way past my bedtime and was caught, hook - line - and sinker. The guys in TAPS are interesting, sincere, and such an odd and occasionally volatile mix of personalities. What keeps me coming back, though, is that every now and then they do catch something that can't be explained, something that makes your skin crawl just a little bit. Put aside your skepticism and give it a chance.

A reality show that documents the efforts of part-time ghost hunters. The group of individuals, called TAPS, and led by Grant and Jason, Roto-Rooter Plumbers full-time, are called upon to investigate private homes and public buildings by those who believe they are experiencing supernatural phenomenon. The ghost-hunters employ what they perceive as a scientific approach to investigation of the paranormal. Psychics are seldom in accompaniment and cameras and various other recorders and filming devices are used in the examination of the various sites that the Hunters choose to investigate. Given the minimal amount of "scientific" evidence of haunting that is obtained, it is easy to recognize that the show is not completely staged. In fact, the plugs for Roto Rooter and meetings with family members by the investigators are the only obvious staged filming. Oddly enough, the camera personnel often focus on the TAPS members during moments of supernatural occurrence rather than zooming in on the ghostly activities.

The show has soap opera like qualities as much as soap opera has life-like qualities. The show focuses not only on ghost hunting, but also on the personal squabbles and bickering among TAPS members.

The TAPS members are very down-to-earth, but professional and committed to helping those who are alarmed or curious about potential haunts. Its not long that you become acquainted with the central characters, Brian, Steve, Grant, and Jason, and familiar with their personal pitfalls and strengths.

Occasionally the show manifests its quest for ratings, but seldom delivers anything that will make your heart peak the Richter scale. You will either grow to love or hate the characters, and expect disappointment in the way of ghost investigation after repeated viewing.

I remember enjoying this show in the early days, however now it's basically just a new group of marginally employed people standing around in the dark. Now they even have a therapist on the team, I cant imagine its helped her business much, unless shes a pet therapist. I hate to admit it but I actually get more enjoyment from watching the over the top dramatics of ghost adventures.

For the most part, I really enjoy watching Ghost Hunters. I didn't think Sci Fi would take a chance on something like this, just knowing it could possibly be an hour of just guys in a dark house. But I like the main 'cast' (yeah .. that's not the word I wanted to use).

The Eastern State phantom still bothers me. I don't know what a ghost looks like, but this guy(?) appears to be someone in a black cloak walking towards and away from the camera ... and that's about it. It seems solid and nothing indicates this is a ghost to me. Jason has menioned the odd movement about it and Brain is unable to recreate this on the catwalk. He also mentioned the thing was only four feet tall which is odd because this makes what ... the third or fourth four foot tall entity they've spotted, which is really suspiscious to me. I wonder if there is a small person on the GH payroll!

I mean come on, the show is fake and their so called evidence would prove nothing in court, The only thing this show is good for is a few laughs as you see their reactions of supposed ghosts. And the other thing it's good for is seeing locations that you likely never would visit. The only reason to film at night and have all the lights off is to make it more spooky. Plus the add some spooky music to make it seem more exciting than it really is. Most of the show is just them walking around in the dark filming with night vision cameras looking for some paranormal activity. And most of this evidence is composed of some easily faked audio evidence. Most of this audio is just static but they say they hear voices. The video evidence is also nothing spectacular. Again easily faked or subjective.

But if you're looking for anything serious or profound regarding paranormal then I would look elsewhere.