Fox is giving us a double-dose of reality tonight, following the final "American Idol" performances with the premiere of "On the Lot," this summer's competition series for aspiring filmmakers. In episodes tonight and Thursday, the 50 semifinalists report to "Hollywood Boot Camp," where they're put through their paces by judges Carrie Fisher, Brett Ratner and Garry Marshall. The judges will screen their films, hear their attempts at pitching their ideas, and whittle the pool down to 18.

I can't say I'm expecting much from Hollywood Boot Camp, which I think will be a lot like "Idol"'s Hollywood Week (lots of filler; not much time to get to know the contestants who are good enough to care about). I'm much more excited for next week, when we get to see the 18 finalists' films and start voting for our favorites. Still, I'll check out the show tonight, if only to see whether Carrie Fisher can hold a candle to Paula Abdul in the crazy-judge department. Are you planning to watch "On the Lot"? You can let me know, and watch a clip of Brett Ratner telling his "how I got started in Hollywood" story, if you read more

Photo and video courtesy of Fox