March 22, 2006, 9:01AM
TV REVIEW
It's Unan1mous, new reality show puts Fox in a hole
By HAL BOEDEKER
Orlando Sentinel
Reality television reaches new depths, figuratively and literally, with Unan1mous. This appalling Fox series sends nine strangers deep underground, dangles a $1.5 million prize and wallows in repulsive behavior.
Fox has chosen to waste one of its choice slots on this nasty social experiment that deprives contestants of outside contact as well as sunshine. The awkwardly titled series debuts at 8:30 tonight after the American Idol results show — a bewildering misstep for a network that's thriving with 24 and House.
In this game of greed, players must vote unanimously for one competitor to receive the money. The setup yields deception, bickering and panic attacks, but no Survivor-style intrigue. In the most revolting turn, a man lies about his health to gain sympathy.
Until they agree, the players will endure hot, stuffy conditions and tiresome putdowns. The prize drops in value as the game drags on. If anyone leaves before the final decision, the money will be cut in half.
To ratchet up the torture, the series shares the players' secrets, such as lying about bankruptcy and spending time in a psychiatric center. Sensitivity has no place in this game. The players decide which secret is the worst, and that person loses out on the prize, yet remains in the bunker.
These contestants behave so abysmally that no one deserves support. Host J.D. Roth guides the action with obnoxious superiority, and the soundtrack unleashes bombastic music.
Unan1mous, the worst new series this season, accomplishes the unthinkable: It makes Big Brother look respectable. For fouling prime time, this travesty should be buried.
