MySpace and Sony have created the ad-supported Minisode Network, which will offer shortened (three- to five-minute) episodes from classic Sony Pictures TV series from the ’70s and ’80s to run on MySpace sites. (Commercial time has shrunk accordingly: Sponsors will run three-second billboards and five-second spots.) Success or failure, of course, will depend on how the episodes are condensed. Here are my suggestions: For Diff’rent Strokes and The Facts of Life, just the opening credits and theme songs will do. (“It takes Diff’rent Strokes to rule the world.” That tune rocks.) For TJ Hooker, throw out the plots, such as they are, and focus on the wit and wisdom of Shatner. (“Cuff him. Then wash your hands.” Classic.) As for Starsky & Hutch, there’s just one way to go: 100% Huggy.
—Posted by David Gianatasio
