American Idol versus Pinoy Idol

In this post, I attempt to present the differences and similarities of the American Idol and Pinoy Idol franchises.

1. LCD Background



Here, both Ryan Seacrest and Raymond Gutierrez stand in front of the main Idol LCD background on the stage for the semifinals (Top 24). The American Idol LCD is brighter and the colors more alive than the local counterpart.

2. Stage size, height and platform



Notice that the although the local version retains the circular platform, as well as the layout of the stage, the American version is larger and higher. There are also more lights in the Pinoy Idol stage.



In this view, the second-storey waiting area can be seen. Notice that the lights have been turned off, or probably darkened in the foreign counterpart, while the local stage is too bright.




Here's a view of the pillars on the sides of the main LCD on the stage. Since the American Idol stage is bigger, the pillars are similarly larger. Despite the size though, the American Idol stage uses light efficiently, and lighting is focused on the performer, not on the entire set.



Two views of the design of the upper waiting room. Both have TV monitors (not evident in the second picture), a couch and a regular tiled pattern on the wall. Instead of using a white couch, the American Idol Top 24 stage opted for a red couch (obviously sponsored by Coke). The pattern on the Pinoy Idol wall is the logo of Pantene.

3. Judge area background



The three judges are situated in the same area in both shows. One major difference is the fact that the wall behind the judges is not simply a tarpaulin in the American version.

4. Use of text effects



The official typeface for the Idol franchise is Copperplate Gothic Light. Observe the upper picture, the size is just right, not too big or irregularly sized. There should only be one size for the typeface for all names. Another size for the hotline numbers. And maybe another size for the subtitles.

5. Judges' comments

After the contestants have sung their piece, in American Idol, the camera is shifted immediately to the judges. There is no need for the introduction of the judges. That dramatically cuts down the time for comments by 5-10 seconds which adds to the time the judges speak, allowing all three judges to say their comments in succession--first Randy Jackson, then Paula Abdul and finally Simon Cowell. After all of them have spoken, only then will Ryan Seacrest invite the viewers to vote after the show.