Like most Americans I have gotten myself completely absorbed into the pseudo lives of strangers, also known as “reality television”. I freely admit that I was a total freak about Project Runway. I say was because the fate of my beloved show hangs in the balance. In case you live on Mars or have a life, Project Runway has been bought out by Lifetime Network for Women. I think there might be one season left on Bravo before the show is completely removed from the context that made it great, but in my heart it died the day I heard.

I only bring up Project Runway because I think it was one of the first in a series of reality shows (many will argue that Tyra did it first with the model thing, but that is neither here nor there and I refuse to let this blog become about bad wigs and eating disorders) that focused on a competition between creative types. It has since blossomed into shows about chefs, hairdressers, and even dog grooming. So I knew it was only a matter of time before something like this happened.

I heard about the open call for the new MTV show, something about digital something. I visited the site, here is what I found:

“We are seeking digital artists (at least 18 years of age) from around the globe to compete in a series of creative challenges utilizing HP computers.

Once selected, 16 people will be flown to New York City commencing on or about July 18, 2008 through on or about August 16, 2008 (collectively, the “Filming Dates”). They will compete in teams of 4 participants each for prizes by creating animations, websites, short films, sound mixes and more in the “Engine Room”.

We will cover incidental expenses (including flight and hotel) for those selected to participate in the “Engine Room” show.

The winning team will get $400,000USD in cash and HP gear to be divided equally among the 4 teammates.

“Engine Room” is a new MTV series which will be seen around the world.

By entering the Casting Call, you will automatically be considered for the Weekly Audience Winner Contest in accordance with the Official Rules.”

Wow, I don’t know what to say. I have no intentions of entering, but I am certainly going to watch. They didn’t say anything about when the show will air. Probably not until next summer or perhaps the fall since they are still in the midst of casting. I will let you know if and when I hear more.

I do have one question though. While the conversation and creative discussions could be really interesting, is watching someone sit at a computer really compelling television? I have a feeling most of this is going to be centered around music videos (something we haven’t seen on MTV in a long while) and arguments. I am sure it will be as far from the reality of being a “digital artist” as say the competitions on Project Runway are from being about fashion design.

Should be interesting to see where they take this though.