Smash -

Synopsis:

Smash dives deep into the world of Broadway, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a new musical about the life of iconic film actress Marilyn Monroe. From auditions to rehearsals, from financing to feuds, the series captures the passion, the talent, and the drama both on stage and off. Centered around a diverse group of artists and producers, the show uncovers the professional and personal challenges that come with bringing a musical to life.

Central Characters:

Karen Cartwright (Katharine McPhee): A talented actress from Iowa, Karen is one of the contenders for the coveted role of Marilyn Monroe.
Ivy Lynn (Megan Hilty): A seasoned Broadway performer, Ivy becomes Karen’s main competition for the role of Marilyn.
Julia Houston (Debra Messing): A playwright who is co-writing the Marilyn Monroe musical, she struggles to balance her work with her personal life.
Tom Levitt (Christian Borle): Julia’s longtime friend and composer, Tom teams up with her to create the music for the show.
Derek Wills (Jack Davenport): The brilliant yet difficult director of the musical, his relationship with the performers and the writers is complicated.

Themes:

“Smash” encompasses various themes, including ambition, competition, passion, the duality of public vs. private lives, and the sacrifices made in the name of art. It also delves into the complexities of personal relationships within the high-stakes environment of Broadway.

Ratings and Reception:

Critical Consensus Rating: 3.5/5
Why: While “Smash” was praised for its talented cast, catchy musical numbers, and its unique take on the world of Broadway, some critics found certain plotlines melodramatic. The contrast between the glitz of stage performances and the narrative-driven storylines sometimes led to tonal inconsistencies.

TV Parental Guidelines Rating:

“Smash” was rated TV-14 due to its mature thematic elements, including complex romantic relationships and the challenges faced in the entertainment industry.

Original Network and Air Date:

The series aired on NBC from 2012 to 2013.

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