Review: 'The Ultimate Coyote Ugly Search'

CMT's "Ultimate Coyote Ugly Search" has always seemed like an odd reality series concept to me. At the end of the day, the Coyote Ugly brand is really all about the illusion of partying, sexy women. From the first bar in New York City through the hit movie to the current nationwide chain of bars, it all seems to be about the promise of a good time. Like Hooters, Coyote Ugly is about the party and the fun and the semi-innocent sexual tease.

But at the same time, Coyote Ugly founder Liliana Lovell really sees it all as about empowering women. Having interviewed her, she honestly sees the Coyote Ugly experience as being one which allows women to fulfill their dreams and explore their talents. Oh, and looking sexy doesn't hurt.

While it might not seem to be a natural fit for a channel aimed at country music fans, the accompanying reality show has done well for CMT. It's now kicking off season three, and it's definitely an entertaining show, albeit one that reflects the Coyote Ugly chains mixed message.

Season one offered the winner a chance to be a Coyote Ugly girl, and season two teamed each contestant up with a veteran, who was tasked with the job of bringing her trainee up to speed. Season three offers up another spin, offering the winner a chance to perform with the traveling group of Coyote Ugly women.

At least in episode one of the new season, it's not exactly clear why there is a traveling group. Do they perform in the clubs? Are they primarily a group that works other public events and conventions? While there aren't many answers, viewers do get a look at a traveling group performance. And they certainly whip out a very energetic (and talented) tune, putting the more stripper-like Pussycat Dolls to shame.

Most of episode one is spent introducing the contestants, who are being judged equally on the their abilities to sing and dance. As is often the case in shows like this, most of the women can do one, but not the other, which makes for some painful and awkward moments as they being rehearsals.

It's difficult to feel much of a connection with any of the women, since it's the first episode and no individual gets much airtime. But one of the highlights of the season might be one contestant who easily looks twenty years older than anyone else competing this season. It's difficult to tell just how serious Taylin is about winning, or whether she's just participating for the hell of it. But she's there, and straining to bend her body is ways that I suspect it hasn't bent in a decade or more.

Her appearance does lead to one question about how producers screened contestants when preparing for the show. Host Liliana Lovell at one point notes that Taylin claimed she was much younger on her application? Didn't anyone check this before she showed up on set?

Regardless, "The Ultimate Coyote Ugly Search" isn't a great show, but it's something entertaining to watch on a night that's usually pretty dismal for TV fans.

"The Ultimate Coyote Ugly Search" premieres on CMT on March 7th, 2008.