There’s something about SNL promos that are completely awkward. I spent some time watching a bunch of them on hulu not long ago, and most of them are painful to watch. Self-promotion is hard to pull off well. Most of the hosts crash and burn with the format:
- Host says that he/she is hosting, and also mentions the musical guest.
- Cast member does/says something that warrants a reaction from the host.
- Host reacts.
That third part is the clincher. If the host doesn’t react in a genuine and funny way, the whole thing kind of fails. The viewer can tell when the host just feels awkward about the whole thing. They look awkward, the viewer feels awkward. It’s hard all around. Because I’m rooting for them. Hosting SNL is a big deal. You’ve made some kind of name for yourself if you’re invited. But there is that very real danger of being god awful. And the promo is often an indication of how the show will go.
That said, Taylor Swift is hosting this week, AND she’s the musical guest. And I predict, based on the fact that she’s awesome, that she’ll do a good job. And by good job, I mean as good of a job as is possible. I hope.
I think Taylor Swift’s reactions in her promos are really impressive. Before you watch hers, though, watch the promo with Peyton Manning and Carrie Underwood. Peyton does well, but Carrie… Kind of painful. Compare and contrast.
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