Episode 12 was, above all, a lesson in cheesiness. Deplorable cheesiness.
The episode had its merits, mind you–most notably a heated and growing rift between Colby and Keith–but both the Award Challenge and Immunity Challenge were more than a little lame.
As the episode began, the remaining five castaways appeared tired, hungry and homesick. Their spirits were nearly broken. Their shelter was a shambles. What could brighten the day?
Leave that to Jeff Probst.
The host guided the survivors to the Outback Internet Café, where each member was allowed to chat with their families and loved ones online (puke), a highly emotional experience for all. A suitable low point came when Keith and his girlfriend in Michigan called each other their affectionate nicknames–peas and carrots–then agreed, online, to get married.
That’s romance.
The Award Challenge itself was creatively anemic. The families of the survivors were given a five-question quiz about the Outback. The family with the most correct answers would win a 30-minute chat session with their eager castaway. In a minimal display of intellect, Tina’s family came out on top.
It would clearly be an uphill battle to reach something akin to “entertainment” for the second half of the show. The battle seemed to be won as Colby and Keith squared off over the rationing situation and a lie Keith had told about which type of rice–white or brown–would last longest. Just as it seemed Colby was going to punch Keith in the face, the conflict died down.
Unfortunately, the Immunity Challenge proved to be a yawner as well. Probst recited a story about the Aborigines, which the castaways attempted to memorize, then shackled each member and sent them off on a test of recollection. The survivors scrambled to posts where they were forced to correctly answer questions drawn from Probst’s story in order to obtain keys that would free them from their shackles. The contestant with the most opened locks would win immunity.
Keith pulled ahead and appeared to be the hands-down winner, but carelessly dropped one of his opened locks and fell behind. Colby raced ahead and won the Immunity Necklace–his third Immunity victory in a row.
Just before their trek to Tribal Council, former Kucha member Rodger informed the group that, if it came down to he and Elisabeth, he wanted to be voted out in order to spare her. Others agreed. Colby, Keith and Tina voted for Rodger; Elisabeth and Rodger voted for Keith.
Happy trails, Kentucky Joe. It’s down to the final four.
