Monday, November 14, 2011

DWTS 13: Week 8 Semi-Finals

And then there were 4.  All the couples had a tough test ahead of them this week doing 2 individual dances and a Cha Cha Relay at the end.

So of course some stars suffered a few unfortunate injuries, more on that later.

Hope & Maks started the night off with the Paso Doble.  Len thought it had the right attitude and aggression, but within that lost control and finesse.  Bruno agreed saying the dance lost it's artistry.

Carrie Ann thought Hope nailed the character, but lost the grace and fluidity of the dance 21/30 was their first set of scores.

I thought it was a good dance as Paso's go, but I agree with the judges assessments wholeheartedly.  Hope was suffering some shoulder pain for which she received some meds, so as a result it didn't hinder her as much.

Next it was time for them to do the Argentine Tango (one of my personal faves) performed by all couples.  Len found it better then her Paso, liked the clean lifts and amount of content.

Bruno found it sexy, full of athleticism with more control.  Carrie Ann didn't find the lifts quite as clean as Len but appreciated the ambition behind them.  24/30

45/60 overall for 2 dances put them in last place.  I won't be shocked if they are the ones who head home.

J.R. & Karina danced a Zorro-styled Paso Doble that due to his twisted ankle wasn't quite as good as it could have been.  Bruno felt the thrill and excitement of the routine, but pointed out the posture wasn't right.

Carrie Ann agreed saying she credits him for attacking it with such vigor, but the injury did indeed effect his posture, and overall movement (in my opinion).

And although she sympathized with him she still had to score him on content alone.  But she hoped he would redeem himself with the second dance. 

Len just thought the dance didn't suit him.  Sadly I once again have to agree with all of it.  It's really unfortunate that the injury happened at the most crucial time.

Because otherwise he'd be beating Rob's butt left and right. 23/30 was the score (possibly his lowest since the start).

The Argentine Tango was up next.  Bruno was impressed with the technical difficulty and execution of the lifts calling him a strong fearless Latin lover.

Len found the mood and intensity to be spot on.  Also saying it was way better then his first dance. 

I gotta say at the end of that dance the poor guy looked like he was in some real pain.  I hope the audience overlooks this week and gives him a chance at the finals tomorrow.

It just wouldn't be the same competition-wise without him there.  I like Rob and all but I think J.R. deserves it more being the more consistent and impressive one throughout. 27/30 was the total for an over all score of 50/60.

Rob & Cheryl danced the Samba that all the judges found "bootylicious".  Carrie couldn't stop raving about it.  Calling his rhythm fantastic.  Even Len liked it despite the fact they started it on a float.

Saying once he got on the dance floor it was all good. 28/30 (a first 10 from Carrie Ann).

I thought it was alright didn't blow me away, or anything not sure I would have given them quite as high of a score but whatever.  His Argentine Tango was next.

Carrie Ann called his dancing strong.  Len said it's not where you start but where you finish and he was also of the opinion he finished strong.

Bruno also commented on his progress from goofy guy hiding behind Cheryl to leading man.  27/30 for an overall score of 55/60 putting them in second place (really?!).


Ricki & Derek danced a fun and energetic Samba.  Len put it best when he described it using one word.  Fabulous.  Indeed.

And I also agree I think they secured themselves a spot in the finals with this dance.  Bruno called it sizzling hot and brilliant from beginning to end.  Carrie Ann complemented her on her shoulder improvement from last week.

I can't remember if I have mentioned how much I love watching these 2 dance this season so I'll say it now.  I love watching them dance!.

Pure joy on the dance floor.  Derek continues to have an innate ability to bring out the best out of everyone he dances with.  Kudos.

As for their Argentine Tango Len loved the contrast of movement.  Bruno loved the spot on mood and fearless dancing.

Carrie Ann on the other hand complemented Ricki on her core-strength.  A perfect 30/30 for a total of a near perfect 59/60.

But the night wasn't over just yet, the couples hit the dance floor one last time together in the Cha-Cha Relay.  For some additional score points.  In order of appearance:

1st Ricki & Derek 2nd score wise with 8 points for a grand total of 67

2nd Maks & Hope 4th score wise with 4 points for a grand total of 49

3rd J.R. & Karina 3rd score wise with 6 points for a grand total of 56

4th Rob & Cheryl 1st score wise with 10 points for a grand total of 65

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