The Beautiful Life: TBL (CW)

Fashion television is undeniably hot right now, with the ongoing success of shows like Project Runway and America's Next Top Model. But even for fashion die-hards, The Beautiful Life is a bitter pill to swallow. Perhaps it's the clunky dialogue or the improbable "Iowa farm boy lands a major modeling gig while vacationing in New York" premise. But a few of the supporting performances weigh it down, too, much like a poorly chosen accessory. Supermodel Elle Macpherson, well cast as (what else?) a former supermodel who now owns a modeling agency, is a notable exception.

Whether the show's target audience -- teens -- will forgive its shortcomings in favor of its focus on expensive designer labels and the collective good looks of its cast is anyone's guess. It's kind of like a garment that looks stylish and expensive but, in reality, isn't very well made. It might sell ... but it probably won't last.