Not stupid at all

BAUTISTA. “Going regional.”

It’s encouraging to see that some Filipino talents are currently expanding their horizons by “going regional” in terms of their TV and film exposure. The biggest hit in this regard is comedian Ramon Bautista, who has been tapped by the National Geographic channel to host its new limited series, “Science of Stupid.”

Since the show sometimes has Bautista speaking in Filipino, he could be sharing hosting chores with other Asian talents, depending on where the series is being telecast. But, it’s still a coup for “our” comic, and he takes full advantage of the opportunity for him to strut his comedic stuff.

“Going regional” is a wise and wily career move on his part—not stupid at all!

‘Friends With Better Lives’

“Friends With Better Lives,” a new sitcom telecast Wednesdays at 7 p.m. on the ETC channel, is trying to pass itself off as this TV generation’s updated version of “Friends,” which ran for many years and made stars of its featured players.

This time around, the updating includes a more varied mix of gangmates. There’s a guy who has just come back to the dating scene and thus feels like a fish out of water; a married couple trying to bring excitement back to their “habituated” relationship—etc.

The episode we caught was less than completely successful. Among the initial problems that need to be resolved is the show’s less than inspired casting. Most of its new leads simply aren’t as promising and comedically gifted as the “Friends” originals.

In keeping with the jaded times, most of the new talents in “Better Lives” are too sardonically “knowing” and arch to come off as warm, witty and winsome performers. Yes, this is the age of the cynical putdown and sardonic bashers, but stylish negativism quickly loses its ability to delight and entertain, so—it’s a problem!