X Factor gets good review in LAT

SET YOUR TIVOS: Tonight’s the night Simon Cowell launches the U.S. version of The X Factor on Fox at 8 p.m. A 90-minute preview made available to the media got an generally positive review from L.A. Times TV critic Mary McNamara, who says the new show “is essentially American Idol with a wider participant base and judges who promise to be, aggregately and individually, better than most (though not this last) seasons of American Idol. Not only has Paula Abdul taken whatever steps were necessary to appear fit and consistently sensible, the addition of music producer L.A. Reid brings a discerning ear and gravitas to the table that balances Cowell much more evenly than Randy Jackson ever did. This means, alas, that early on we are treated to a ‘he says yes, I say no’ montage and mini-interview with Cowell saying, ‘I’ve met my match,’ after which the two men do nothing but agree. But steps must be taken to establish Brand X and this is one of them… Where The X-Factor differs from American Idol is that it is more self-consciously a television show. Not surprisingly, kids are a huge factor, particularly in the beginning, as is the tension between the two male judges. Watching performers whose personalities perhaps outweigh their talents, Cowell’s eyes narrow appraisingly—this may not be a possible winner of the $5-million recording contract and Super Bowl Pepsi commercial, but he or she will no doubt bring some drama to the show, so I say yes.” (9/21a)