Critics Slam Californication

Ten's racey new show starring former X-Filer David Duchovny has been slammed by critics for its excessive use of smut.

Much of the criticism stems from the Church where Australian Christian Lobby spokeswoman Glynis Quinlan accused television executives of trying to shock their way to ratings success.

This is not at all surprising considering the pilot begins with Hank (Duchovny) ditching his cigarette in the holy water before getting a blow job from a rediculously good looking nun.

Much of this can be attributed to pilot syndrome where producers keep the audience entertained through shock, then once they are on the hook dramatically tone down the smut in favour of a storyline.

Advertisers such as Holden have pulled out of Californication's time slot fearing it would tarnish their reputation. Legendary Sydney shock-jock Kyle Sandilands is predictably impressed with the show, announcing during his radio program earlier this week that advertisers should jump at the chance of having their ads played during the show.

I for one approve of the show, not because of the frequent and completely justified nudity (:P) but because as far as comedies go it is a refreshing change from the Friends formula or the women's-only Sex And The City.