Britain's Next Top Model

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The panel - interesting as ever

That seemed like the longest week ever! I couldn't have been more excited for this week's episode of 'BNTM' as the remaining eight made a cameo appearance on 'Hollyoaks'. You will be glad to know, it was even better then expected, in fact perhaps the best episode to date. The girls' reaction when Ricky Whittle (Calvin Valentine) popped out to say hello was priceless. Every single one of them blushed and momentarily forgot that they were being filmed (Cringetastic, but can we blame them?). On top of this babelicious Kevin Sacre (Jake Dean) also swooned the ladies in his role as a guest judge for the first task. It was without a doubt the most delightful start to an episode so far. It's amazing what a bit of eye-candy can do to reality TV shows these days.

For the first acting challenge, partners in crime Joy and Alesha stole the show with their fierce acting debut. Although it was hard to tell whether that rather painful hair tug which Joy gave Alesha was accidental or not? Either way in true Alesha style she laughed it off, and as usual was oblivious to what was going on around her. It was refreshing to see Joyless regain some confidence back when she won the challenge. I think she may have even cracked a smile and dropped the defeatist attitude briefly. However, what on earth was Tiffany thinking? Her acting was atrocious to say the least. Looks like Chris Klein's Mamma Mia audition may have some stiff competition at this year's Razzies.

The highpoint of the show had to be when Amelia declared "I'm starting to wonder why they didn't call this show Britain's Naked Next Top Model". In fairness, I can see what she means. For the second week on the trot the models had to sport a bikini for an acting challenge (kind of random), but sure how else are the judges supposed to make the beautiful contestants self-conscious about their bodies?

As always, most of the episode focused on fun loving Alisha and her running commentary throughout the show. I really do hope that she doesn't get booted out anytime soon, because I am quite a fan of her personality and charisma (perhaps Elle could take a leaf out of her book?). Honestly though, I don't think Alisha has any interest in the competition. She probably would have achieved more by entering this year's Big Brother House. From her drunken antics last night running around the house waking everyone up at all hours, to her comical monologues to camera, and better again her dramatic banging of the table to demonstrate her 'natural' acting ability, the girl never ceases to entertain.

However, I was extremely disappointed in Nicola's performance. I have been rooting for her from the start and hoped she would step up her game. You would think after being in the final two last week that she would fight her corner this week. There is only so much of the timid shy-girl insecure 'no-can-do' attitude a viewer can take. This is what baffles me about this show, if you have insecurity issues and low self-esteem why on earth would you put yourself forward for a modeling competition on front of the nation? I reckon Nicola would have benefited more from staying at home and reading 'Eat, Pray, and Love' with her Granny glasses (which I absolutely adore by the way). Maybe Specsavers will use her in their next campaign.

I wasn't a fan of the horror theme of the second challenge. So overdone and unoriginal. The concept of how to look beautiful whilst making ugly faces is just so cliché at this stage. The whole thing reminded me of that recent MTV show 'Scream Queens'. Despite the mixed reviews from the judges, I was really impressed by Charlotte's poltergeist impression. At long last Tiffany put her heart and soul into this challenge and even got a slight bit of recognition from Charlie Speed. (Who might I add looked rather withered in this episode.) Although, I suppose when a zombie is darting towards you with an axe, it would tend to age you a few years.

For such an eventful episode, the judge's comments were so monotonous and dull. Elle giggled at every shot that was shown and came across as being a tad patronizing (which I don't actually think she meant). As always nothing constructive was said by the panel, just a few eyebrows raised matched by peculiar pouts. I reckon the programme makers need to think more carefully when selecting guest judges. Someone slightly 'mouthy' and sassy like Graham Norton or even Charlotte Church would go down a treat. I don't think Janice Dickinson ever got enough credit for the fun element she brought to the US version of the show.

Next weeks episode features ice queens, high street shopping, more presenting and a helicopter ride. I am very intrigued as to why Alesha was sobbing whilst uttering "I'm so annoyed with myself". Who knows maybe she was informed that she isn't in fact presenting the show and that Elle is unfortunately not just an intern! Don't forget to tune in Monday at 9pm on Living TV.

Laura Delaney