9021-no-no

In the game of previews, it’s often a bit suss when studios hold back sending something out to reviewers. Xanadu was never sent to critics ahead of its release, and I think we all know why.

America’s CW Network has now chosen not to send 90210 to US television critics, but denied at the same time that it is holding back for reasons of content.

“We’re not hiding anything . . . simply keeping a lid on 90210 until (airdate) 9.02, riding the curiosity and anticipation into premiere night, and letting all our constituents see it at the same time.”

It’s a curious strategy and hard to know what CW gains from this. But it’s a move that is already triggering a reaction. One critic at Courant.com has decided to respond in kind.

“TV Eye and its writer have made the strategic journalism decision not to write about 90210 in any way in advance of its premiere,” says Roger Catlin. “Since the network has decided to withhold preview copies to critics, any writing about it would be pure speculation. We’re not hiding anything, simply keeping a lid on the hype until 9.02, with no interest to ride or take part in any manufactured “anticipation” for the prime time retread.”

Gold!

Source: courant.com