The Next Step is a good show and was and still is a favourite of mine to watch even though I am not a dancer myself. The problems and scenarios that are played out in Studio A (and later Studio One) are very relatable to everyday life people. However, the show has declined in quality of late and I find myself complaining at the screen for the numerous problems I find with each episode. Repeated plot lines, weaker acting and story lines that seemingly go nowhere are just a few of the reasons why the show continues to decline in quality. The first three seasons are widely regarded as the best and some people see the 4th season as a step back. The fourth series actually grew on me as time passed and I enjoy it more looking back. Season 5 is by far the weakest season: The idea is good and a couple decent episodes (including one of my personal favourites, A Tale of Two Eldons) but it is fairly poorly executed as the end result leaves you a bit confused and baffled. The lack of a competition isn't the best way to end things. Season 6 is an improvement but it starts to feel like story lines are being repeated and confusing plots but overall I fairly liked Season 6 despite it not being the standard of some of the earlier seasons. Season 7 hasn't been terrible but nothing has really happened. It feels like almost every plot is resolved in about 2 or 3 episodes and certain characters are not given enough screen time (TNS fans will know who I am talking about). The introduction of a lesbian couple is a great idea and I am all for representation but it has to be done gradually and correctly. This relationship is rushed and not done so that we are kept on our seat waiting for a kiss. They have just two episodes together before they kiss. Why? Earlier seasons would see a gradual development in blossoming love: You only have to look at Jiley or Eldon with Michelle and Emily. Relationships form gradually, not all of a sudden. This most recent season has been the least dramatic season only starting to leave cliffhangers in the final few episodes which is good but cliffhangers need to be more consistent for me to tune in next week. It's a good show no doubt, and I have a soft spot for the earlier seasons but I can see it being cancelled if there aren't some drastic changes.
Review of The Next Step
