Creator Matthew Weiner Answers Fan Questions
Prior to the Season 3 premiere, series creator Matthew Weiner sat down with AMCtv.com to answer a few of your questions.
Q: What is the most challenging thing about recreating an entire era? -- Andrea
A: Not being distracted by the way history has interpreted it. It's really hard. You have to construct it out of what you think to be the truth based on the way human beings behave, and then you have popular media, which often says something is very important and it turns out it wasn't. And then people's memories of when things happened and in what order is very unreliable. There are some things we get wrong, but more likely there are things we know are 100 percent right and people just can't accept that. It was very hard for people to believe that the lifestyle in the Village in the '50s was very much what the Summer of Love was like. In fact, it was like that in the '30s. We feel so smart because we're here and we can look back and we know exactly what happened. We have a sense of superiority, but the truth is it keeps happening over and over again and we should get ready for it to happen to us instead of thinking that we're over it.
Q: How much similarity do you see in the worlds of Madison Avenue and Hollywood? -- thechosenfew
A: I think the battle between creative and business is definitely always there. My insight into Madison Avenue and copywriting in particular is because I'm a television writer. I think the businesses are very parallel to each other. Creative people like to think of themselves as artists. And when there is money at stake it becomes for both, "What is the most entertaining?" I've always looked at advertising as a form of entertainment. And if it's entertaining, you think it will sell things, but that's not always true. The Taco Bell dog was so funny, but I don't know if it produced business.
One of the interesting things about the show is it's brought up this whole concept of legacy, which has become a business word for, "Why don't we take advantage of the nostalgic quality attached to our product?" Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't.
Q: Can you give an example of ways that an actor's performance has influenced you to shift the direction in which you take the character? -- Jesse
A: No. The truth is that the actors are so good I don't have to limit my imagination, and I never have to write around anyone. We think of something, we know that we can write it and the actor is smart enough, talented enough, and has enough of a presence that they can pull it off. And having that kind of confidence in them allows people's imaginations to run free. I know that January Jones is funny and she can do angry and can do touching and can understand complexity. That allows me to write scenes that have all those things in it for her, when a lot of times a woman who looks like that in such a role is only capable of one thing.
Q:The media often refers to Betty as a Hitchcock Blonde. Is that a deliberate characterization on your part or just a nice coincidence? -- janeeyre
A: It's a nice coincidence. I'm a Hitchcock fan, but I didn't know the term. I think January has the qualities of an old movie star, and I certainly recognize the Grace Kelly thing right away. So did Hitchcock [Laughs]. So the fact that you have a beautiful woman who has been objectified her whole life, and that there's any depth there at all, and there's sexuality, that is interesting to me. And it probably was to him too. You're dealing with someone who's so beautiful you don't even know if they're a person. You literally think, "What is it like for her to go to the supermarket?" As soon as you start going inside that person you have this big drama.
Q: Betty already knew Don was having an affair with Bobbie Barrett, so what was it about seeing Jimmy's commercial that set her off? - MadforMad
A: When the Bobbie Barrett thing happened, she never had any evidence of it. But what she did have was the public humiliation of seeing that man on TV. And that was enough for her, and had she not gotten pregnant the marriage probably would have been over. She felt like, "Everybody knows but me." And I think it was her pride more than the reality of Don that got to her. Jimmy suggested it; Don never admitted it. It's based on the way he behaved in the past, and that people thought it was true, and that was too much.
Q: Did you create profiles in advance for each of the characters and, if so, how detailed are they? - LLM
A: I knew who the characters were instinctively, but one of the big breakthroughs for us was when [costume designer] Janie Bryant came on board, she made these posters based on photos of the time and actors, and those were the character profiles. I had everyone look at those. They're framed on the walls of our office to remind people: This is Peggy. This is Rachel Menken. There's a consistency to these human beings, and the show rejects things that are out of character. Sometimes we try to do things, and either we've done them before or we're just like, "He wouldn't do that."
Q: Is there a fixed moral center to the show, or does it shift? - GEfridge
A: There's a fixed moral center of the world, and we all deal with it the way we can -- the same way the characters do. And there's a lot of embracing of it, a lot of moments of superiority, and a lot of moments of rationalization. I'm trying to imitate our experience. Whenever we talk about other people's moral issues, it's very clear to us. But I think for ourselves there's a lot of wavering, a lot of relative morality. Anybody who has a clear picture of what's right and wrong uses it to judge other people. And a lot of times when we come to our personal situations we're pretty loose. Or we just feel guilty and horrible about what we do. Peggy gave that baby away because she had to, she had to, she had to. But how do you judge her? I don't know. That's what I'm interested in: Here's the objective standard of what's good and bad, and here's the way we behave.
Q: I'm glad that women's lives are being explored in the show. You've said that, originally, men were going to be your focus; what did you intend to explore that you haven't yet? - The Sound of One Man Laughing
A: Um, watch the show. [Laughs] The issues that are particular male issues are all wrapped up in female issues, and I've never really tried to differentiate them. But I was interested, just from my own point of view, at how strange it is to not have a code of male behavior at this point in time, and how that happened. But then it became just about a bunch of human beings in the world, and I'm always interested in the problems of human beings.
Q: Do you see the show running long enough to leave the sixties and enter the seventies, possibly even the eighties? How do you think it would affect the characters, plot lines, and overall feel of the show? - Chelsea C
A: I would love to see what happens to them. That's all I'm going to say.
Q: What is the one thing you really wish someone would ask you in an interview that no one has yet asked? -- Deborah Lipp
A: It reveals more about me than it does about the show, but I am always surprised that no one asks me why I was writing about Don Draper. [Laughs] I think it's about admitting the most negative qualities in yourself and how you overcome them. I'm not some crazy philandering guy; I don't look like Don, but I was definitely struck with the idea of the confusion that sets in about feelings that you have from when you're single and ambiguous feelings about family and all these institutions that you're craving. I guess people think that the story was so sexy I just couldn't resist it. [Laughs] The story is pretty sexy, but I've always identified with Don and Peggy and all of those characters. They're multiple sides of my personality, and I'm thrilled there's an audience out there that's not threatened by investigating what's wrong with us. And that's why there's no judgment. A lot of entertainment is about making you feel that you're OK. That's what Don says in the Pilot. But life is more complicated than that.
Watch a video interview with Matthew Weiner for Season 1 »
Read the chat transcript for Matthew Weiner for Season 2 »
So... AMC is now in the gay porn business, When do we get full frontal nudity? Of course, we all know this stuff happens, but do we have to see it? It's a shame, really; the first two seasons weren't bad. I, along with many others, have been under the impression that Mad Men was a notch above the modern "what-the-hell-anything-for-a-sexy-thrill" type of film. Oh well... you go in the trash.
Aughhhh...would AMC PLEASE require registration with a name (other than anonymous) once more?
Damned with faint praise, there ("The first two seasons weren't bad...") Get over yourself.
And no, you don't have to see it, or anything. It's called change the flippin' channel, chum.
Ah ... there. I feel SO much better.
Great, show a couple of guys kissing, good job way to ruin a new season!
Bye Bye Anon......don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out.....
Someone already posted on another thread that there is a warning before each episode about it being "for mature audiences" and "has sexual" and or "adult situations"....'nuf said.
No like-ee No watch-ee....got it?
Sheeesh
Like Auburn Annie is any more a name than anonymous? Think about it.
Some people are simply bigots, & don't like to be reminded that gay sexuality is part of the spectrum of HUMAN sexual behavior. Ironic that they'd rather just not see gay characters doing what the other characters do, on a show that makes a point of showing us how the deep prejudices of the time kept the majority of homosexuals so deep in the closet, that they were forced to lie every single day. And how the lies not only hurt them, but those who became caught up in the lies, like Salvador's wife. BTW, I happen to be straight, & am not afraid to see gay people being as loving & sexual, or as stupid & fallible as anyone else.
The episode clearly pointed out the parallels between Don's lie-generated identity, & Salvador's. They are both, as Don so cleverly points out in work guise, wise to "limit their exposure."
Thought that exchange btwn Don & Salvador was a brilliant piece of writing, completely true to the characters.
And the last scene, when once again we remember that Don can never celebrate his (Dick Whitman's) real birthday w/ his family, was terribly sad. We can feel his grief & not-so-subtle disconnect, as he and Betty begin to tell Sally her birth story. The music that ended this episode, reflecting Don's true roots, was heartbreaking.
Well done... I think stronger than last year's opener... can't wait to see how the season unfolds!
cute...the rape, adultery, alcoholism, back stabbing, mendacity, greed, etc is a-ok but a gay sex scene completely unhinges anonymous.
Wow, I am surprised by the antigay comments on this and other comment sections of the Mad Men site. Seriously, I think there other things on the show that are more shocking. Get over it already.
I really enjoyed the show was exicited about season 3 but you ruined it by having 2 guys making out. I wont be watching this program anymore and I will pass the word to friends and family not to watch either
My wife and I couldn't wait for season 3 to begin and instead we are through watching Mad Men after the disgraceful display of gay porn. If that makes me antigay then I guess that is what I am. I didn't think it was the type of show that subscribed to the anything to shock the audience mentality. Since we no likee, we'll no watchee.
"Since we no likee, we'll no watchee."
Bye-byee!!
Well done, the first show flew by, good pace, watched it twice, glad it was on back to back in my area. As a matter of fact, think I did this with Season 2 as well, so well done, it was a cerebral joy to partake.
I must admit, there is such an undertow feeling after this episode, feels like a few wakes are coming. VERY unstable. I appreciate everyone involved for delivering such a high level of adult entertainment and mental engagement. How refreshing, tune in and turn on versus tune in and tune out, little sheep. A real appreciation of Hitchcock is wafting in the ethers.
Everything done is a very high level and with dedication. Such a shame that the Bratt performance - the top echelon of this episode - is lost on the common views permeating this era to some viewers of our era. The more things change, the more they stay the same.
Looking forward to your future in 1963 and a heartfelt thanks from this viewer.
Well done, the first show flew by, good pace, watched it twice, glad it was on back to back in my area. As a matter of fact, think I did this with Season 2 as well, so well done, it was a cerebral joy to partake.
I must admit, there is such an undertow feeling after this episode, feels like a few wakes are coming. VERY unstable. I appreciate everyone involved for delivering such a high level of adult entertainment and mental engagement. How refreshing, tune in and turn on versus tune in and tune out, little sheep. A real appreciation of Hitchcock is wafting in the ethers.
Everything done is a very high level and with dedication. Such a shame that the Bratt performance - the top echelon of this episode - is lost on the common views permeating this era to some viewers of our era. The more things change, the more they stay the same.
Looking forward to your future in 1963 and a heartfelt thanks from this viewer.
Wow is everyone that shocked by the gay stuff? I mean i cringed but I like that it challenges me. I guess gay dudes cringe at the sexy women on the show getting almost completely nude (Joy from S2). Some of you puritans who now hate the show obviously didn't read the interview up above.
matt weiner said, "I'm thrilled there's an audience out there that's not threatened by investigating what's wrong with us. And that's why there's no judgment. A lot of entertainment is about making you feel that you're OK. That's what Don says in the Pilot. But life is more complicated than that."
Well, I did not suffer through these last 9 months or so just to walk away after one episode of Season 3. How moronic is that?
I wasn't sure I liked the episode, but after watching it twice (and will watch again tonight), and pondering different parts of it since, I have come to the conclusion that it is just like all the other episodes of Mad Men. Excellently written and superbly acted. It left me wanting more, as usual, and I can't wait, again as usual, for next Sunday's episode.
Wow is everyone that shocked by the gay stuff? I mean i cringed but I like that it challenges me. I guess gay dudes cringe at the sexy women on the show getting almost completely nude (Joy from S2). Some of you puritans who now hate the show obviously didn't read the interview up above.
matt weiner said, "I'm thrilled there's an audience out there that's not threatened by investigating what's wrong with us. And that's why there's no judgment. A lot of entertainment is about making you feel that you're OK. That's what Don says in the Pilot. But life is more complicated than that."
Thank you Mr. Weiner for yet another thought provoking chapter in the Mad Men series. As always, it left me with a few more questions than answers. But that's what I love about the show. Thank you, too, for taking time to answer some of the questions.
LESS IS MORE!!! The show was SEXY now it is TRASHY! Come on...the vintage coolness is lost! Really, Really liked the show...now I am not so sure!
LESS IS MORE!!! The show was SEXY now it is TRASHY! Come on...the vintage coolness is lost! Really, Really liked the show...now I am not so sure!
There is only one reason I still am subscribing to Comcast. Madmen.
The gay scene was so necessary and very, very appropriate for that time. I lived those days in NYC, myself. Same clothes, same jobs, same apts., etc. I loved it and I'm astonished the writers and producers have been able to capture the era so perfectly. I lived with roommates in apts. in the Village and the upper east side. I'm getting to relive my youth and what fun it is. But the closet world for gay people was covered with such an iron wall that most people had no idea. I can recall the jolt of surprise years later on discovering so many of the people I knew at the time, married and single, were gay and felt real sorrow it had to have been that way. The closet was closed, my friends, and no one knew, believe me! I'm loving every minute of this marvelous show and it is so right on compared to my memories.
Wow, I am shocked at how sensitive some of the Mad Men viewers are. Yes, there was a gay scene...is that so shocking? There were homosexuals in the sixties...yes, really! This show is about life during that decade, straight, gay, philandering, pregnancy etc...the entire spectrum. This goes to show how horrible it must of been for homosexuals during, well...every decade, including this one.
I think this episode was really good...every bit of it.
Grow up people.
I was really disappointed in the series premiere, but unlike so many other of those who've commented, I was disappointed by Don Draper's failure to evolve. After all the character went through last season, I was expecting, or at least hoping, to see that he'd grown up and learned something. But no, there he is, back cheating on Betty at the first opportunity. I will say, to Matt Weiner and anyone else who says, "people don't change", you are very wrong. If Don Draper really felt the things that Jon Hamm acted at the end of Season 2, he would not be back behaving the way he was in this week's episode. I am really really disappointed. You expect the characters to evolve, as people do in real life, not stay as stupid as they started out.
I was really disappointed in the series premiere, but unlike so many other of those who've commented, I was disappointed by Don Draper's failure to evolve. After all the character went through last season, I was expecting, or at least hoping, to see that he'd grown up and learned something. But no, there he is, back cheating on Betty at the first opportunity. I will say, to Matt Weiner and anyone else who says, "people don't change", you are very wrong. If Don Draper really felt the things that Jon Hamm acted at the end of Season 2, he would not be back behaving the way he was in this week's episode. I am really really disappointed. You expect the characters to evolve, as people do in real life, not stay as stupid as they started out.
I think the first Anonymous (the homophobe) and Maggie are the same person and is not someone who ever watched the show. I think they're just pretending to be a viewer so they can claim some outrage on the gay sex in the Season 3 premiere. I really don't see someone so narrow-minded being a constant viewer of the show. Anon says "The first two seasons weren't bad..." That shows up their lie. Why would anyone continue to watch a show that they can only describe as "not bad." And Maggie says she is going to tell her friends and family not to watch the show. Hilarious! Look at the ratings - they're already not watching it! These comments are like writing a senator that you've NEVER voted for, telling them you're not going to vote for them in the future. I don't buy it. This person is not a Mad Men viewer. Focus on the Family probably told them to get on this site and complain. He/She is watching Glenn Beck as I write this...
@Realware
I also was dissapointed that Don was still cheating on Betty. I thought for sure that he would have learned something from last season's drama. Does anyone know the song "Why Can't You Behave" from Kiss Me Kate. All during last night's show that song kept playing in my head.
So two guys kissing on a show is now considered "porn" and people are offended by this "porn" yet no one had a problem with the half dressed women in this episode or any other episode and started calling it "porn" or critizied it for exploiting women?! Mad men is a great show and get over your bigotted selves and don't watch a show which has a warning on it..."Contains sexuality..." doesn't just mean hetero.
I was also disappointed in Don still cheating But I did love Pete's happy dance and then the realization he didn't have the job solely, while Ken was just so happy about everything.
So two guys kissing on a show is now considered "porn" and people are offended by this "porn" yet no one had a problem with the half dressed women in this episode or any other episode and started calling it "porn" or critizied it for exploiting women?! Mad men is a great show and get over your bigotted selves and don't watch a show which has a warning on it..."Contains sexuality..." doesn't just mean hetero.
I was also disappointed in Don still cheating But I did love Pete's happy dance and then the realization he didn't have the job solely, while Ken was just so happy about everything.
So two guys kissing on a show is now considered "porn" and people are offended by this "porn" yet no one had a problem with the half dressed women in this episode or any other episode and started calling it "porn" or critizied it for exploiting women?! Mad men is a great show and get over your bigotted selves and don't watch a show which has a warning on it..."Contains sexuality..." doesn't just mean hetero.
I was also disappointed in Don still cheating But I did love Pete's happy dance and then the realization he didn't have the job solely, while Ken was just so happy about everything.
So two guys kissing on a show is now considered "porn" and people are offended by this "porn" yet no one had a problem with the half dressed women in this episode or any other episode and started calling it "porn" or critizied it for exploiting women?! Mad men is a great show and get over your bigotted selves and don't watch a show which has a warning on it..."Contains sexuality..." doesn't just mean hetero.
I was also disappointed in Don still cheating But I did love Pete's happy dance and then the realization he didn't have the job solely, while Ken was just so happy about everything.
Sorry my computer became really annoying and posted my comment many times.
The final scene of season 2, (Pete and Peggy) left me with great anticipation! I'm looking forward to see how things will play out this season. I can understand why things centered on the merger, as it is a huge transition and was played out quite well.
Know, I never thought Dons character would change....how boring to see him any other way!! (laugh) The gay scene caught me off guard, though I didn't find it to be repulsive as many have declared. Why chastise the character's for things that have been going on since the dark ages. Don handled the situation, as he's no saint by any means, and knows it.
Cannot wait to see how things will unfold this season....I'm always left with wanting more, and never, ever dissappointed!!
I think the "gay scene" was very well played. I think we really got the sense of how intense Salvatore's sexuality is. Sexual orientation is not window dressing, whether you are heterosexual, bisexual or gay, it is deeply felt and on some level carnal. This is part of why one's sexuality is so difficult to dismiss.
That said, the scene was more risque than any sex scene in Mad Men so far. Reaching down the underwear *was* going further than any of the heterosexual sex scenes thus far. If the same scene had been shot with a man and a woman, I think it still would have been the most explicit depiction of sex on the show.
But come on, AMC has been running ads calling Mad Men "the sexiest show on television" for weeks now. Ads that are 30 second montages of people [mostly Don] having sex. Is it really such a huge surprise that they're elevating the level of sexual content in the third season? They've certainly been giving people enough warning.
I am a straight, married female and mother of two boys. I loved the scene with Sal. I was so happy for him. I believe I even cheered him on! Finally!
I am nuts about Mad Men. I have now watched this first episode 4 times and it is on again as I write this. I do feel some disappointment for this episode, however. I did not like who Don Draper was. I mean he's not a lovable guy anyway, but he left me very unsettled. Maybe that is intentional. His nonchalant attitude while cheating on Betty was 'icky'. But hell if he's going to cheat, be the sexy, hot Don Draper we know! What is with this meek, passive lovemaking?
It's nice to see that Anon.'s "gay porn" screed proves Weiner's thesis: people's emotional experiences in the 1960s weren't so different than ours today. Doesn't Ken say something about "queers" when the French guy comes out to Peggy in season two? Well, Anon. is just Ken in the 21st century. Who cares anymore what the Kens of the world think anyway? Men kiss men, women kiss women, men kiss women, and women kiss men--they did it in the sixties (only those of us who were gay had to be a lot more careful and conflicted about it) and they still do it today. Love and sex and passion and the illicit don't change, just how freely we express them or repress them. Anon. would have been one of the women or men facing Hester Prynne on the scaffold while pointing a scornful finger at her scarlet letter. At least, some of us are pointing the finger back at Anon. for being a bigot, so some attitudes do change after all (thank heavens).
"We're here! We're queer, and we're in your face!" So say the homofascists. The homosexual agenda is to push their perverted practices into every nook and cranny of the culture.
My husband and I absolutely love the show!. We live in Barcelona and watched it last night (Monday) on Apple TV..so no need to subscribe to Comcast.
Glad Sal came out of the closet some and dissapointed about Don's behavior, but that is how Don/Dick is..a lie..but he is so charming and cute at the same time!. Best line of the show "limit your exposure". Looking forward to next Monday!
Add me to those who are astonished at the silly comments about one gay kiss. And, it was just a kiss -- an awkward kiss, at that. If any viewers see "porn" or anything else, perhaps they should examine themselves.
And let's not forget, Salvatore is a closeted gay character. Now that the closet door has opened a crack, I bet there will be further experimentations for Sal.
So it's probably best for the kiddies to go color or watch the Mickey Mouse Club and leave viewing Mad Men to we grown-ups.
I'm a big fan of Mad Men and my only criticism of this episode is the cartoon stereotypes of the new English owners. Unlike the established characters who are totally believable the Englishmen are totally not
Really surprised by all the bigots here...
Liked the episode though it was quite lukewarm, relative to last seasons conclusion.
Hate the lack of follow up on petes and peggys story. We see pete last season attempting to have a child with his annoying and stuck up wife Trudy, only to be met with frustration. Later Peggy tells him that she had his child and lovelessly gave it away. Matt Weiner even alluded to Pete committing suicide. We come back to this season with no follow up. RAWR!!!! that is annoying
Guess the creator... That sick bastard, will keep me coming back for more.
How come Blair Underwood isn't sporting around in his underwear on any episodes?
I was really hoping to see and hear some awesome
writing along with the great set design and costumes but this show failed miserably..on
so many levels!! borderline gay porn...Don doing it w/a stewardess(that's what they were called back then)..is so UN-creative!! I'm done after one
episode..and I was completely hooked after last season..not anymore :( bye bye Mad Men
DMR511 DITTO!
Seems that Sally's character is going to get thrown under the bus, Season 2 (smoking, negative comments from her mother) and now Season3 (suitcase damage)--why does she deserve this treatment? I think Betty knows that Don is not the father of her baby, she's writing off her relationship with Sally and is using the pending arrival as a substitute daughter(she is convinced it is a girl) to justify her attitude.
What's the deal with Joan? Is she supposed to be pregnant? She looks like she's wearing a very bad fat suit (left-over from Peggy?)
I am neither surprised nor "disappointed" in Don's continuing cheating, or near-cheating in this case (we never do know if he and Shelly resumed where they'd left off.)
Someone else has posted elsewhere that Don's level of involvement with other women has decreased markedly. No longer is having ongoing affairs (Midge, Rachel) but the occasional, out-of-town one night stand. Watch again and see that it is Shelly who initiates and presses the action. Don actually says "no" at one point. He is trying; like giving up smoking it's hard to go cold turkey, expecially when you're either surrounded by smokers or in the milieu where you used to smoke. It's a habit, and I give him points for trying.
I do think he really is making an effort. He will relapse, given his history probably repeatedly, but is unlikely to have another grand passionate affair in the future. He knows now what he could lose - his children. Yes, he loves Betty in his way but he really loves Sally and Bobby and he knows if he seriously screws up again, Betty will keep the kids from him, at least to some extent. Given the rotten childhood he had, he'll do the best his damaged self can do to keep them from harm.
And now the birthers and fundies come to MM. Great.
Thank you so much Matt for answering my question. It is really neat to be able to hear your thoughts! And your show is incredible. --Andrea Lahouze, Hopkins, MN
Thank you so much Matt for answering my question. It is really neat to be able to read your insights! And your show is incredible. --Andrea Lahouze, Hopkins, MN
Um, that Sal finally got his gay on in episode 3.1 should be no surprise to fans of the show. He's a repressed (and oppressed) gay man in the 1960s. Sure, it made this red blooded heterosexual squirm but it was not lurid and was completely consistent with the character.
I'm not sure you can be a prude at any level and enjoy this show. If so, watch the schlock on the over the air channels if depictions of sex, bad words, adultery, and conniving capitalism bothers you.
Bert Cooper
Not Wearing Any Shoes Right Now
Bravo, Mr. Weiner! I've been glued to the show from the first minute of the pilot. My mother was a copywriter at D'arcy Advertising in the 60's, and it is fascinating to see what her daily life was like when I was a child. The character of Sal is spot on...many gay men of that era married in order to fit in to the business world. My mom knew several men, some more conflicted than others, who were in this situation. My only gripe with Peggy is that she is kind of a square...Mom was one of two women copywriters at D'arcy, and both of them were witty, savvy, and chic. I know the show is a drama, but don't get too dark....folks in advertising laugh a lot.
In a serial like this, why do some of you want all the answers in one episode? This is novel of the airwaves like The Sopranos or Deadwood were. The book is not finished yet. Patience. Enjoy the slow unveiling (but hopefully not too slow) of plot and character.
Bert Cooper
Deciding What New Japanese Screen To Buy
I'm glad they put the Sal scene in, but I disagree with grid that it went "further" than any heterosexual love scene so far. Recall the episode with Don & Bobbie in the restaurant, where he puts his hand (kind of violently) up her dress.... also I'm sure I don't need to point out Joan's rape scene. Both of those were definitely more graphic than Sal's scene.
But I also agree with everyone else - if you're going to let one "disappointing" episode bar you from watching the entire season, it's your loss.
Prairetransplant,
If I recall correctly, Betty knew she was pregnant prior to her indiscretion at the bar in the last episode. So unless she's been carrying on behind the camera's back, the baby has to be with Don.
I can't believe nobody has commented at how awesome those BMW commercials were. Great work.
Anyone who has watched this show for the last two seasons and did not see the Salvador scene coming has not been paying attention. If you had been paying attention, you would have been able to deduct that season three would be the season where we learn more about Sal's secrets. To call this "porn" is ridiculous. Pop in that DVD you have of straight porn, we all know you have it ( you most likely have the gay stuff too) and do an A/ B compare. I am pretty sure it won't measure up. Keep up the good work Matt. $
Mr. Weiner:
Thanks so much for selecting and answering my question on the blog. I am honored and look forward to a great Season 3. Best reagards.
The homophobic stuff is to be expected folks. My guess it that it's a single commenter trying to look like many. You know, that fake "grassroots" kind of protesting that's currently in vogue.
The writers knew that, to be consistent with who he is, Sal would have to explore his sexual needs. It's the only natural course of events. Those who are put off by it are just reacting the way all humans do when confronted with behavior that is not consistent with their own feelings and desires. It's not bad or wrong to feel uncomfortable with someone else's sexuality; happens all the time. What's problematic is when you try to punish other consenting adults for their sexual practices.
The "wrong" here is being done to Sal's wife, Kitty, who has married a man who is gay but can't live as a gay man because the society in which he lives will punish him for his sexual orientation. So he pretends and everyone is hurt. Honesty is the only cure for this ill, but I don't think we'll see Sal being honest about homosexuality for a very long time. But we will get to see the pain caused by his duplicity.
As for Don's infidelity, did anyone out there really think Don was going to change his character from one season to the next? Don lies for the same reason all of us lie -- to get what he thinks he needs. Don and his colleagues create big lies to get us to do things like smoke cigarettes, drink beer and buy "relaxicizers." It's not such a leap of faith to believe that they'll use their skills at fantasy to get other things they want. Don lies because he needs things he thinks he can't get by telling the truth. Betty uses her looks to get the things she can't get for herself. People lie, people cheat, people exploit others and they do it because they are afraid -- afraid that they will suffer some kind of want if they don't. The writing on this show is superb and the characters are consistent -- which doesn't mean they're always likeable or easy to watch. Thanks for a great season premiere.
I am so grateful to Matthew Weiner for all the creativity he's brought to television drama. Every production he's been involved in has featured three-dimensional stories and characters that are thought provoking and stimulating.
I won't say anything about Sal except there was a small cheering section in our living room rooting for him!
Question about Tiger's comment about MM not portraying Brits more accurately: I don't think Don, Peggy & the crew represent any section of America I've ever been a part of, but I don't question the authenticity of those characters since they represent a small portion of Americans in that era. Is it possible the same be said of the English characters?
I absolutely agree with MW's view that people don't really change that much. I would have been SHOCKED if Don suddenly was a 1-woman family man after last season. He's a complex character, but fundamental to his very being are LIES. It's what he does, how he lives...he doesn't know any different, and as much as we like to think people learn from their lessons and grow, they don't. People, in general, repeat mistakes. We're lucky if we learn enough to stop making the same mistake by the 3rd time!
One of the reasons I love Mad Men so much is the same reason I loved the Sopranos. It takes a talented storyteller to make us sympathize with such a profoundly flawed protagonist. I wonder what would happen if Don Draper ever met up with Tony Soprano?
Oh, and Mr. Weiner, by husband would like to thank you for adding to "side-boob theater". For a second he thought we might get full-boob, but I reminded him this is AMC, not HBO...pity.
Prairetransplant,
If I recall correctly, Betty knew she was pregnant prior to her indiscretion at the bar in the last episode. So unless she's been carrying on behind the camera's back, the baby has to be with Don.
Well, you've managed to flush out the homophobes. No loss there. Sals' scenes & storyline were some of the most engaging of the episode. My other fave was the Ken/Pete conflict...including Lane Pryce's manipulations. Can NOT WAIT to see how that all plays out.
And, FWIW, I'm kinda glad for the basic cable restrictions on nudity & profanity. Keeps the focus more on the plot, writing and acting quality when those easy crutches are not available.
Oh, and nice touch with the sound quality on the intercoms.
...and Pete dancing like an evil little imp!
Wow. This is the second blog I've seen flooded with anti-gay rhetoric. They all say the same thing and are all from anonymous authors. I'd suggest that the bigot-patrol put out the word and this an organized endeavor. I have a suggestion: we're not going to change their minds. We know we're better than them. We know that their hate makes them incredibly flawed, pathetic, paranoid beings who are in complete denial of self and being...let's just ignore them. Whattya say?
But in the spirit of immature BS: Hey folks...watching that scene the other night made me realize that I want to be gay. I'm choosing it. That scene of "gay porn" made me gay. And I'm loving it! As a matter of fact, I'm going to show all of my friends that scene because I'm sure it'll make them gay and then we can prance around outside your house being gay an loving it!
Folks, the show will be better for all of us if you stop watching it.
And note that I did use a name. How pathetic you all are.
Matt,
Thank you for this show, and your interview(s).
The mark of a true artist loves every reaction to the "art". Apathy is the worst!
Love everything. This is a slice of life. Moms may not like Peggy being so cold, homophobes may hate that you continued with Sal's life. It's all good, no great, for me.
Keep it up.
A really big fan, and a "Mad" woman.
not being gay (in the 60's or otherwise) I didn't see the moment between the Sal and the bellboy that gave away either was gay. If Sal is as closeted as he appears, (he has all his friends and wife convinced) I was a little surpised by the forwardness of the encounter. Even when Sal was tempted by his colleague (at Belle Jolie I believe?) there was a prebanter they went through to confirm suspicion.
By the way I was one of the gullible people who had hoped Don had changed his ways. I didn't think he'd be faithful forever but jeez he didnt even make it through the first episode.
Hello Maddicts!
I think some people are missing the point of the show, which is to show lives that are hidden everyday. Look at the tagline: "Where the truth lies". That means, the truth is a lie, and the truth "lies" within. The whole show is about double meanings, and it just an expertly written show. Smart people GET IT. Whiners don't.
That being said, the first ep was a bit shocking, but that was exactly the point. This is Matthew Weiner, he wrote for "The Sopranos", and remember those shocking seasons? How about the series ending, not even fading, but cutting to black? Genius. These shows make you think.
Loved the season premiere. Don is probably one of the most conflicted and best characters in TV history. He's already iconic and the show has only been on for 2 yrs. Everyone can identify with Don Draper's themes of being one person during the day and another behind closed doors. And, for fans of this show,you know that's the case with everyone on it. No matter how hard Don tries to be good, he always ends up being bad. However, to him, it's second nature and the line between his truths is blurred. I was glad to see Pete get a bit of comeuppance having to share a promotion. Peggy bothered me, though. She seems assertive and bossy and to much of a goody-two shoes, even though she had a baby out of wedlock in the 1960's. However, that's the point of the show: no one is who you think they are. As for the whole Sal controversy, I say, in the words of Bert Cooper, "Who cares?" There is no controversy there, and it's was just one piece of one big puzzle, the brillance that is MadMen!
TheMadfan....you couldn't have said it better!
DonDrapeMe:
Thanks for the compliment! I just felt the need to signup so I could post. I love this show and it bugs me to see people commenting on it who don't understand the writing and the angles and the point!
Also, like your name...I could have Don Draper "drape" me anytime!
Did anyone pick up on this?
- Don making Betty a warm glass of milk- Does anyone think the sheet of curd that forms when making warm milk symbolized anything? I thought perhaps the 'curd'(sorry, don't know the proper name of it) is probably Don and he's exonerating himself from something that's good and whole and and doesn't want to mix in with the milk which symbolizes health.
Which leads to my next observation of that scene-
- after Don's mother gave birth to him, she said "I'm so cold. I'm cold." Now, for mothers that have given birth, there's not a woman who's cold after giving birth (granted it was winter time, but they were indoors). You're usually covered in sweat from the heat your body produces from such trauma. The look on Don's face, while standing in the kitchen, when he heard his mother say that was a look of confusion and slight disappointment.
Just an observation.
Kudos to Matt, the Actors & Everyone !!
I Love MadMen! The way you capture the Sixties
down to the Revere Wear Sauce Pan and terrible intercom systems is Awesome and a Fun trip!
Everyone expects answers to the questions left by Season 2 Finale and Anxious for answers in the opening Eposide and can be disapointed that their
question isn't answered..But I look forward to your unique story telling to unfold! Give Don Draper a
a Break..he's not out there on the prowl & looking to hook up..Don is HOT and women come on to him..creating temptation that he can't resist..are you kidding..We all Want or Want To Be Don Draper..Right Ladies and Gettlemen
It is very interesting to me that Don is the ethical center of the business, but in all other aspects of his personality is amoral.
DonDrapeMe:
I think Don's birth mother saying she was cold was because she was about to die, and sometimes before death, you can experience a low body temp, since your blood is slowing down and your body goes into shock. Just a guess.
As for the film on the milk, on the surface, it's just that it got scaled, but the deeper meaning could be the fact that milk is wholesome until getting burned, but if you brush off the burned part, there's something salvageable underneath. Kind of like Don's life.
For DonDrapeMe re "- after Don's mother gave birth to him, she said "I'm so cold. I'm cold." Now, for mothers that have given birth, there's not a woman who's cold after giving birth..."
I was. Shivering like mad. Giving birth can be bloody hard work and the shivering is a reaction to all the energy expended by muscles. I had no anesthesia (all natural) so it wasn't an after-effect of some drug. It's been almost 26 years now and I can still recall the blessed warmth of a heated blanket the delivery room nurses put over me right away. Aaaahhhhhh.
On another point, Don's mother probably died from puerperal (childbirth) fever which begins with feeling cold or shivering. Infection was, and still is in many parts of the world, a leading cause of maternal death.
Okay, so Don Drapper can bang anything in a skirt, while his pregnant wife sits at home, a woman can be raped in an office in the middle of the afternoon, a young woman can be left with an unwanted pregnancy, but god forbid two men kiss?
No wonder the US is becoming a second rate country. Don't like reality, then don't watch!
Nicely put Hnorc.
I wanted to comment on a previous post saying the Sal almost-sex-scene was the most graphic the show has ever had. What about the scene second season when Don fingers Bobbie Barrett in the hallway? And when "hunk-in-bar" uzips and inserts himself into Betty at the bar....
I loved the scene with Sal and was thrilled to see him finally expressing his sexuality. But was it shocking or the most graphic? Don't think so. I guess, because it's two men and not attractive heterosexuals everyone is shocked and amazed. I for one was happy to see the writers of the show take it there for Sal. Hooray and bravo!
This show is the best thing on television. Already has set itself apart as a quality, intelligent, masterpiece of art and story and history. Can't wait to see where the characters take us this season.
This show is genius on so many levels. I am such a fan of any show that goes to such lengths to "get it all right." I am transported. The season opener, I thought, was a little confusing and disjointed in some ways. I thought maybe the writers got so swept up and nervous about it, they went off on a few tangents never to return. Well, I know it will settle down. If Don became "good," what would we all watch for?? I think his character is very fractured. He has toes in both of his lives and just keeps making up dreamy copy to fill in the rest. Salvatore's gay scene was maybe a little graphic but was at least a relief to see that he can finally acknowledge the truth. Now I want to see how he handles it from here. Does he suppress it, embrace it? Hmmm. Thank you, thank you for a wonderful show, all the writers, costume designers, set designers, and of course Matthew Weiner for having the vision! (Hey, was that someone's Emmy acceptance speech?? ; )
Themadfan: great analysis. Gives a deeper meaning to the burnt part of the milk "there's something salvageable underneath. Kind of like Don's life." True indeed.
Auburn Annie: there goes my ignorance. I was in fact so HOT after childbirth, goes to show that every woman's experience is different. However, now it makes sense that puerperal (childbirth) fever is the cause of why her temp dropped so low. Thanks for the enlightenment.
I've only skimmed the comments and have no idea who reads this, but all I have to say is I was shocked when I searched my channels on my ATT sattelite Dish network only to find that I do not have AMC. I am on season 2 episode 12 currently and I will not pay more to get AMC (I currently pay $45/mo). I will be a patient gal and wait for the DVD. But I am a fan and I have not lost interest. I, however, feel it might be even more interesting if Betty did not kick him out so early in the 60's. I believe mid to late 60's would be more interesting. I wish to see more in-home struggle before the separation. But once again, I am not yet current w/everyone else. Please don't let go of the beautiful and oh-so-clever subtlety. This is what I adore about the show....and some was missing in 2nd season. That's all. The end. Bye.
oh, and how the heck do I upload my Mad Men Yourself pic?
oh, and how the heck do I upload my Mad Men Yourself pic?
WORST LINE OF THE SHOW
I've watched this show since the beginning and have admired how well it captures an era. The first episode of this season had a line that I thought was so not 1960's. When Betty talks about her daughter liking to play with Don's tools and saying, "that's so lesbian." In 1963, the phrase would have been, "That's so tomboy." I am sorry but whoever put that line into the script did not live in that era. Little girls weren't described as lesbian. In fact, I don't think that line would even be used today.
More shocking: Joan was essentially raped by her fiance in Draper's office last season. Why did you homophobes not find that disturbing? Don't you imagine the show was promoting rape - making a statement it is okay for men to dominate their women that way? Get over it. Face the fact that diversity exists. We will not all fit into your neat little boxes. Open up. Live and let live. (I thought the gay scene was HOT and I'm a straight woman.) :}
Evening Maddicts,
DonDrapeMe: Thanks for the compliment on my milk analysis. Another poster said it was like the afterbirth and symbolized the stillborn baby that Don's stepmother had...wow. I never thought of that one...there are some sharp people on this board.
PamW: You know, I even saw some recaps last season describing Joan's rape as a "disagreement between her and her fiancee" and a "unpleasantness". These were recaps in major magazines and papers. Imagine that...in 2009, people are still scared to call a spade a spade. It was rape, bottom line. What a double standard, the rape was not as shocking to some posters, but a little "bromance" was? I am a straight woman, and I am not on a political platform here. While I was a bit shocked that the scene with Sal and the bellhop was so torrid for basic cable, I was not at all shocked that the scene took place. (Speaking of basic cable, anyone watch "Rescue Me"? That show really pushes it). Anway, real "Maddicts" knew that the tension with Sal has been building for two seasons, especially since he touched hands with the Belle Jolie rep, and then tried to invite Ken over for a "date" and kept his lighter as a memento while his wife looked on and realized that yes, she married a gay man. Now, as a betting woman, I am going to bet that Matt Weiner & Co will explore a bit more of Sal's life, but not much. Don all but locked Sal in the back of the closet with his 'Limit your exposure" line to him on the plane anyway. People are getting too emotional and hung up on the Sal story, and are forgetting that there are other characters on the show that are also central, such as Roger, Peggy, Joan, Betty, and of course, Don Draper. These are very smart writers, and they wanted to kick off the show with a bang (no pun intended). I don't think it was so that AMC would pick it up for a fourth season, or to gain a new following, etc. They are sticking true to the show's tagline, which is so great: "Where The Truth Lies".
I can't figure out what happened to DUCK? is he CEO of S/Cooper or was he ran off at the end of last season I know he promised pete that postion but he wasn't seen or mentioned? I thought I had a grip on the current evenets but No. Anybody want to share on this/ badboy.carroll@gmail.com
BB,
Didn't like the gay thing & don't think it should be forced down our throat. There is just to much of it & we're expected to be sensetive to anything& everything anymore.
Thank you badboy. I wonder too, why Duck Phillips wasn't in the new season--thought I'd missed an episode. The head of accounts, I believe, was the guy we saw briefly in Bert's office getting his severance check, then making a scene in the secretarial pool.
Lost me (and likely most of middle America) at the gay bit. Not a phobe just don't like watching it. Get a channel like BET or GET so I can know where it is. Uswed to be a good show. Also the Premier lacked certain subtle qualities present in the past 2 seasons. Again, no likee...no watchee...exactly right-
Lost me (and likely most of middle America) at the gay bit. Not a phobe just don't like watching it. Get a channel like BET or GET so I can know where it is. Used to be a good show. Also the Premier lacked certain subtle qualities present in the past 2 seasons. Again, no likee...no watchee...exactly right-
I'm a recent fan of Mad Men, having spent this summer watching the first two seasons non-stop on DVD. Up until the season 3 opener, I've applauded at how accurately the show reflects the language and relationships of the time. In 1963, I was 18, and I fell in love with another girl. There was no word for what that made me that was in common use, other than "queer", but I grew up thinking that queer referred to men or boys who liked each other. I didn't know girls could have those feelings, too. The word lesbian was not part of the common use language. The closest word to describe me was tom-boy, because I loved camping, riding my bicycle and I was a very active Girl Scout. Maybe it was different in New York City, but I doubt it was that different. I lived in California, and as someone who was coming of age during Mad Men, I was well aware that my choices for career were just as you portray them. Women only existed to serve men. My job choices were: Librarian, Airline Stewardess, Secretary, Wife and Mother or Teacher. I chose a teaching career and wisely spent 32 years teaching art in high school, and proudly coached the girls into career choices that were never available to me. This program brings back all the icky feelings of the time, and I'm reminded and grateful that I was able to fulfill a career that satisfied me and served, oh about 6,000+ students and the community. Bravo for a very fine program. But please, remember that homosexuality was classified as a mental illness until 1973. NOBODY would have joked about having a lesbian daughter. Period.
I'm a recent fan of Mad Men, having spent this summer watching the first two seasons non-stop on DVD. Up until the season 3 opener, I've applauded at how accurately the show reflects the language and relationships of the time. In 1963, I was 18, and I fell in love with another girl. There was no word for what that made me that was in common use, other than "queer", but I grew up thinking that queer referred to men or boys who liked each other. I didn't know girls could have those feelings, too. The word lesbian was not part of the common use language. The closest word to describe me was tom-boy, because I loved camping, riding my bicycle and I was a very active Girl Scout. Maybe it was different in New York City, but I doubt it was that different. I lived in California, and as someone who was coming of age during Mad Men, I was well aware that my choices for career were just as you portray them. Women only existed to serve men. My job choices were: Librarian, Airline Stewardess, Secretary, Wife and Mother or Teacher. I chose a teaching career and wisely spent 32 years teaching art in high school, and proudly coached the girls into career choices that were never available to me. This program brings back all the icky feelings of the time, and I'm reminded and grateful that I was able to fulfill a career that satisfied me and served, oh about 6,000+ students and the community. Bravo for a very fine program. But please, remember that homosexuality was classified as a mental illness until 1973. NOBODY would have joked about having a lesbian daughter. Period.
I loved the season opener and so glad the issues of the previous season were not addressed yet. I like the anticipation!
I wondered what happened to Duck too, I assumed he was fired like 1/3 of the staff as mentioned by the new boss.
I think Peggy is getting too arrogant and needs to find a sense of humor and a life!
I found it interesting the parallel of the two birthdays, Dick's (aka Don) and the way Don and Betty were describing Sally's birth.
You have to feel bad for Don/Dick growing up with the knowledge of his birth origin. Remember his comment to the hobo in season one when he says he was a "whore child". His father and stepmother were so cruel to him.
I tend to agree with Deegee and Twokandoux that the word "lesbian" probably wasn't used back then but then I was too young in the early 60's to know. I have to say I was taken aback when I heard Betty say the word.
I don't like the way Betty treats her son. "OUT!" she orders him. Why is that?
I loved the little boy "Bobby" original actor, what happened to him? I noticed a new "Bobby" now. I'm sure the new one will be fine but I'll miss him! He was a good little actor. I'm sad, one of my fave scenes was the exchange between Don and Bobby after Don threw his toy robot against the wall in season 2. It was priceless! "I think we need to find you a new daddy..."
When you think about it and Don's philandering ways, he is very selective in who he decides to pursue or tryst with. In season 1, he had plenty of chances at the office. Joan wondered why he never went after her, one of Roger's twins made a pass and he threw it down. Roger constantly dangled Jane in front of him. He didn't go for it and in the very first episode, when Peggy puts her hand on his and he reprimands her that he is her boss, not her boyfriend. He doesn't hang at strip bars. He doesn't ardently search for " it." The series doesn't tell you how he began with Midge (so glad to see her gone), he genuinely liked Rachel Menken, they had chemistry, (it just happened), Bobbie Barrett forced herself on him and he succumbed. She said something like: "I wanted it, and I got it and it was better than they said." Then this stewardess, again, she was not going to be denied. Sal mentioned her tenacity of purpose on the plane. He's not a real "whore-dog" Like Betty said to Don: "You can't help yourself."
Don't you think Betty knew what really happened with the airline pin? Now that she knows what kind of man Don is, and she knows he probably won't change, and she got a little revenge, that she is going to let it go because after all she is pregnant, she does love Don and isn't that what women did back then? They took it in stride for sake of the kids, the household, and she knows Don loves her in his own way.
The Sal scene was shocking but in a good way because you know that it was going on back then (since the beginning of time) and it must have been difficult for these men, I'm sure a lot felt they needed to get married to cloak and acquiese to the societal norms of the period. This was more easily accepted in Europe remember Kurt was bold, open and honest about his preferences last season and the look on Sal's face was true-to-character. I was happy for Sal and I knew Don would keep his secret since he has so many of his own.
Don is fiercely protective of those who he considers to be his friends, or loyal compatriots. (Freddy Rumsen, the way he fought to keep the SC relationship with Mohawk Airlines, Peggy Olson and maybe even Pete Campbell.)
One more thing, The most graphic scene in my view was the forceful hand up-the-dress, hair/head pulled back on Bobbie Barrett, her reaction, his demand and not just that, when Don got back to the table, he wipes his hand with his napkin! Jaw-dropping!
Amazing, Thrilling Show, Actors, designers and Writers Great Job!!!
I recommended Mad Men to a few friends because I have enjoyed the series. Three out of four of them told me that when the gay scene came on, they switched channels. Do we really need to see this on just about every show that's on TV? I think it's over-kill. I will still watch it, but too bad you just lost new viewers. Brenda
I had to find out where the website for the show called "Mad Men" was, for two reasons: 1.It is advertised so often, and in the most annoying fashion that I've ever seen anything advertised on TV-the name of the show is in the screen on the AMC while the AMC is showing other shows to the point that I often think I'm watching "Mad Men" instead of the show I'm watching! That's the most annoying form of advertising I've ever seen! and 2.In the previews, I've never seen footage of actors where every single hair on each person is perfectly slicked back in place in every scene, and every one is dressed/acts like a mannequin. Unsettling and also annoying, and not in a good way! I didn't know anything about this show, and just from these two things, I would never, ever watch this show. These two things alone rubbed me the wrong way! LOL. Please!!! Stop advertising it on the screen while other programs are running. I have nothing against the sexual content of the show. I didn't even know anything about the content of the show.
Mad Men is a sophisticated period piece that gives insight into the social, political, and sexual transitions that took the nation from Leave it to Beaver to Woodstock in less than 10 years. The gay movement is a part of that. 1963 is only one year before NYC's first-ever gay rights demonstration, and six years before Stonewall. Sal's character gives us a glimpse into the common practice of "living a lie" back then, the fear and pain that creates, and new freedoms soon to come. MM's treatment of gay subject matter is far less gratuitous than what I've seen on other shows. As for Sal and the bellboy, if you are that freaked out by a PG-rated gay intimacy scene, then you are not the target audience for this show. But you're in luck: I believe Reba is in reruns at this same time.
I'm having difficulty understanding Peggy's behavior. Maybe it will make sense later in the show. I realize that she is portrayed as a smart woman and capable of even doing better than the men. Having sex with Pete Campbell when she knew he was getting married in previous seasons and now picking someone up in a bar and spending the night with him - is this an attempt to show her trying to be like the "boys"? I hope not but can't figure out motivation behind this story line.
Wow, people are so worked up over the gay scene. Okay, I assume that most of us are adults. And I understand that some people are sensitive about homosexuality... But for fuck's sake! GET OVER IT!!! OMG if you don't fucking like it, then change the channel. Geez, I swear to god if I see one more shot at the show's creative integrity just because of that scene with sal and the bellhop, I'm going to fucking flip. I can't believe that people are so close minded. It's the 21st century, guys. But a lot of you act as if it's the 1960's.
I was born and raised in the Bay Area, and a lot of my friends are gay. I look at them no different from my straight friends. When it comes down to it, we are all human despite our sexuality.
I am so appalled by a lot of people's responses. Ridiculous.
Poor Sal reminds me of Carmella Soprano who spent almost he entire run of the series trying to have an affair. I don't think Sal's desire to have sex with a man will ever be consumated. On the other hand, MW could bring in a new equally closeted interest for Sal.
Either way, you either watch the show or you don't.
I am noticing a lot of new people on the blogs who are sounding angry and vitriolic. Not at all the way our blog used to be; just offering our thoughts, praise and comments, sometimes disagreeing with each other but never being rude, nasty or foul.
Way to go Auburn Annie! I say the same thing to these new critics-use your remote and watch something else.
I am straight..what a stupid sounding label.
I was so excited for Sal. Then I felt so bad for him that he was interrupted. Great writing and acting. An added bonus was Sal admires Don more and will be loyal to him.
So when do you think Don, Peggy, Pete and I'm not sure who else will make the split from Sterling Cooper to start their own agency? The signs keep getting stronger.
My only other comment about last night's show is that the plot line is moving awfully slow. It was almost beginning to feel like a series of Tableaux depicting scenes of the life in the sixties without much forward moving action.