In 2007, the British channel E4 launched "Skins," a show about a group of teenagers dealing with sex, drugs and mental illness that would stir controversy, win awards, and make stars of its actors.
In 2011, MTV tried to convince America it could do the same thing.
MTV's "Skins" takes the same basic story lines as it predecessor with some differences, especially in its characters.
It too uses actors and writers that have little or no experience with the intention of keeping the show fresh, young and as realistic as possible.
But therein lies the problem. How do you keep something fresh, when you're copying it?
The American pilot is a shot-for-shot remake of the original, as is the episode "Chris." Much like last night's leftovers, you can stick them in the microwave, but it still won't taste the same.
But enough about the producers and writers. What about the actors? Who are these kids?
For a start, they've got a lot to live up to. Many cast members of the UK version were able to use "Skins" to springboard major acting careers, like Dev Patel, star of "Slumdog Millionaire," and Nicholas Hoult, who will play Beast in "X-Men: First Class" this summer.
Mostly, they simply don't seem as talented as the British cast. Most of them come off very bland, and bring little vision or insight into their characters.
Let's judge them one by one. Maybe we'll feel less mean that way.
James Newman
Character: Tony
Age: 17
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Previous acting experience: None. James had never even had an audition before "Skins." But he comes from a family immersed in the film industry. His mother is an actress, his father is a producer, and his grandmother was the president of a film production company.
Other interests: James loves boxing. Before being cast on "Skins," he was training for the New York Golden Gloves Boxing Tournament.
Plans after the show: He delayed going to college to be a part of "Skins," but James does want to go after the show is done. He also wants to continue boxing.
Opinions: James has a certain charisma about him, but you can tell that acting isn't his passion. He constantly wears a goofy smirk on his face, that makes it seem like he's not very invested in his character, but more along for the ride. He manages to come off like a normal teenager, since most teens are just going through high school on the way to somewhere else, but for the character of Tony he really needs to bring a little something more.
Rachel Thevenard
Character: Michelle
Age: 18
Hometown: Waterloo, Ontario
Previous acting experience: Before "Skins," Rachel was in several Shakespearean plays around her hometown and was in Dreyton Entertainment's production of High School Musical as a member of the pep squad.
Other interests: Running and baking.
