Riot

"Riot" is a sketch-based, improv comedy show, much like "Who's Line is it Anyway?" There is no scoring and no winner.

The host sets up each game and advises which players are to participate in it. Two of the six players are celebrities. Steve Carrell was one of the celebrities on the first episode. Games include acting out situations in total darkness, a charade-type game using shadows, and skits performed in a tilted room.

After watching the first episode, I think the quality of each episode will depend upon which celebrity players are used and the particular games played.

Good improv is not easy. This show may find it difficult to match the genius displayed on "Who's Line is it Anyway?"

It's an improv games show and they bring a couple of name celebrities to play along with the regular cast. There are a few different games but they have a varying amount of comedy possibilities. And generally I don't find the host that helpful to the comedy.

Slide Show - The floor is slanted at 22 degrees. It is rarely funny although there is a possibility of injuries. If only they have a floor that moves like a fun house at the carnival or one that can rotate back and forth...

In the Dark - The players go into a darken room playing out a scenario. This is also rarely funny although massaging a big fat guy had its moments. It's hard to tell if Andy Dick is really afraid of the dark but at least it allows him to be somewhat funny.

A Bunch of Jerks - A bunch of improv games where the losers get yank up by a cord. The improv games are not new and seems tired. The bungee cord pulling the players up does very little and only slows down the show.

Shadow Puppets - Players behind a screen try to project shadows as clues. It's possibly the only good game and works well for a competition. I can see it being used in other better shows.

Alphabody - Two players form 4 letters with their bodies. Comedians have to work for the laughs or else it gets boring.

There are other games. None of them are any funnier. There are just too many unfunny awkward moments in this show. Too many games don't work. When it doesn't work, it really doesn't work. (addition) It got canceled after airing 4 episodes.

Comedy is my thing. I think improv is great. I am all for new shows that involve both. But, this show sucked. Honestly, I think the thing that most took away from the fun of this show was the guy talking. I just wanted him to shut up. Plus, everything seemed a bit set up. Maybe this is not the network or the time slot for this show. I will try again. But it really let me down.

The end had me laughing the most. Like the last 10 minutes or so. I was thinking about it. It was almost like I was watching a bunch of people messing around when they were bored. It just all seemed some what lame. But, as I said, I will try it again. Maybe I will end up loving this show. I guess only time will tell.