America's Most Smartest Model

America's Most Smartest Model was a reality TV show from VH1 that first aired in 2007. Produced by Stone & Company Entertainment and Mark Cronin’s Mindless Entertainment, the show followed a distinct premise with the tagline, "Good looks can only take you far, you have to win the race using your mind."

In the show, 16 contestants - eight male and eight female models - were pitted against each other in a unique competition. Unlike typical modeling shows, the premise didn't purely focus on the looks. Instead, it sought to find the individual who could best display a harmonious blend of beauty and brains. As the models competed, America's Most Smartest Model posed the question whether intelligence and beauty could co-exist in the modeling world.

Hosted by Ben Stein, an economist, writer, actor, and also a former speechwriter for the Nixon administration, and Mary Alice Stephenson, a renowned fashion and beauty expert, the show added an interesting mix of political satire, economic wit, and arsenal of fashion expertise. Each episode was packed with the duo testing the models in not just catwalk strut and pose-perfection, but also putting their knowledge about world affairs, math, common sense, and even their linguistic skills to the test. As such, it was as much an intellectual's game as it was a fancy, glitz-filled runway race.

Each contestant in America's Most Smartest Model had their modeling skills assessed alongside their intellectual capabilities, creating a steady build of anticipation and entertainment as the episodes unfolded. The tasks assigned to the competitors ranged from physical challenges that would test their strength and endurance, to mental challenges that would test their creativity, intellect, and problem-solving abilities. The contestants were also given challenges that required teamwork and strategic planning, which made for compelling viewing and indicated the level of their cooperative skills.

The show was structured in such a way that at the end of every episode, the judges would evaluate the performances in the tasks and eliminate the contestants they found least impressive on both the mental and physical counts. The last man or woman standing at the end was deemed as America's Most Smartest Model, which not only presented them with a money prize but also a contract with a reputed modeling agency.

A notable aspect of America's Most Smartest Model was its portrayal of the protagonists. The show presented the contestants as more than just good-looking individuals. It explored their personalities, captured their hopes, ambitions, and dreams, and delved into their intellectual capabilities, thus focusing on the whole package. As the contestants interacted and competed, viewers got to see their vulnerabilities, their fierce competitive spirit, their wit, and intelligence, making them relatable.

The commentary by the hosts Ben Stein and Mary Alice Stephenson played an essential part in the show’s charm. Stein, with his trademark monotone voice and deadpan delivery, perfectly contrasted Stephenson's lively and flamboyant presentation style. Together, they maintained a delicate balance, providing both humor and stern judgment when evaluating the contestants.

America’s Most Smartest Model endeavored to shatter stereotypes about models being only about glamour and beauty without brains. It brought together high fashion, intellectual prowess, fierce rivalry, and intriguing personalities to create a captivating viewing experience full off twists and unpredictability. Though it aired for just one season, it gathered a cult following due to its unique proposition and engaging format.

Overall, America's Most Smartest Model was an innovative concept that sought to merge the glitz and glamour of modeling with the cerebral and analytical aspects of intellectual pursuits. Its showcase of contestants being more than just their appearances, the endearing bloopers, and heartening triumphs offered a refreshing take on the conventional modeling reality TV show. It wasn't just about surviving under the scrutiny of fashion gurus, but it was about demonstrating that beauty is more than skin deep, and intelligence can indeed be a vital propeller on the runway of success, even in the world of modeling.