I understand the show is trying to do something different and something new. But honestly, are they going to stop showing people like Locke and Sayid and other great characters (and potentially even kill Charlie!?) and replace them with ex-VH1 reality TV stars like Bai Ling? I'm not quite sure what the writers are trying to accomplish at this point, but I am really missing the smoky killing machine, Locke killing a boar, even Hurley snacking on some ranch dressing!

I still have faith that the writers have some twist up their sleeve that will shut me up, but for now I will just continue to wait and hope...

her character enabled an explanation of some of Jacks tattoos.

Also, i think her being in Jacks flashback parallels' the story of the blonde chick; that you cant trust someone just because you are attracted to them.

I think you're right, and I'm glad we now know what Jack's tattoos mean. But what about the rest of the unanswered mysteries from seasons 1 and 2?

I don't mind the character of Achara being included, as she did serve a valuable purpose. But personally, I can't stand Bai Ling. **MOD edited** I chalk it up to stunt casting, but I just find that so disappointing, because Lost is already known for such stellar casting--just look at the Others we've been introduced to, with Michael Emerson, Elizabeth Mitchell, William Mapother, M.C. Gainey...

Also, i think her being in Jacks flashback parallels' the story of the blonde chick; that you cant trust someone just because you are attracted to them.

Interesting parallel... I hadn't thought about it that way!

I'm really missing the other Losties right now too. :frown:

if they tell you everything then why would you come back to watch anymore. It's not a movie there isn't a specified amount of time. the show could run for 4 or 5 seasons at 24-25 episodes a season they need to keep you intrigued. imaine how incredible season 4 is going to be plus how about the rest of this season, and if you can't wait to know, don't watch it on tv wait for the dvd's

I would have rather seen a less known actress in the part. I do not like Bai Ling and I am disappointed they cast her. I am even disappointed that they cast Cheech marin as Hurley's dad. I like that they introduce us to new actors. Casting these 2 just seems weird and out of place.That's just my humble opinion...

This is the first I have heard/seen of this actress. I was somewhat surprised that the character Jack, a doctor, would have made that selection. He must have been really 'rebelling' against something? Not exactly someone to bring home to mom. Wonder what the reasoning behind using a female with her style of appearance rather that dressing someone in a more traditional way? Don't 'seers' look more dignified? Ha, guess one has to dress for the tatoo district, only why present us with a sacred ritual and put it in a light-district tatoo parlor?

This is the first I have heard/seen of this actress. I was somewhat surprised that the character Jack, a doctor, would have made that selection. He must have been really 'rebelling' against something? Not exactly someone to bring home to mom. Wonder what the reasoning behind using a female with her style of appearance rather that dressing someone in a more traditional way?

Well, this was supposed to be taking place after his divorce, so Jack is supposed to be in a low point in his life, which I think could make his choice of her more understandable. As you said, he was sort of rebelling. As for her unusual style, from a design point of view, I think it had something to do with her not being a usual person. She has this gift and I think they were trying to represent her as a sort of mystical person through her appearance.

As for Bai Ling, the only other role of hers that I know is her bit part in Revenge of the Sith.

This is the first I have heard/seen of this actress. I was somewhat surprised that the character Jack, a doctor, would have made that selection. He must have been really 'rebelling' against something? Not exactly someone to bring home to mom. Wonder what the reasoning behind using a female with her style of appearance rather that dressing someone in a more traditional way? Don't 'seers' look more dignified? Ha, guess one has to dress for the tatoo district, only why present us with a sacred ritual and put it in a light-district tatoo parlor?
Not that Bai Ling made the character/wardrobe decisions, but from what I know of her, **MOD edited VIP privacy/RL comment** They may have cast her for that very reason, actually... but I just think she's**MOD edited**.

I don't mind the character of Achara being included, as she did serve a valuable purpose. But personally, I can't stand Bai Ling. **MOD edited** I chalk it up to stunt casting, but I just find that so disappointing, because Lost is already known for such stellar casting--just look at the Others we've been introduced to, with Michael Emerson, Elizabeth Mitchell, William Mapother, M.C. Gainey...
I think she happened because she is cute, and fashionably bizzar, and they want to 'Jack up' Jack's romance time on the air..for the ladies...for ratings sake.
About her looks...check out how many times guys clicked in to her shot on the beach, flying the kite.

She was in "The Crow" my brother and daughter love that movie, that was the first thing they thought of when we found out she was "phuket girl"

Well, boys will be boys!
I looked her up on wiki and her name means 'white spirit'...now we know it was for the symbolism of her name. (I better understand the last podcast comments.)

I think she happened because she is cute, and fashionably bizzar, and they want to 'Jack up' Jack's romance time on the air..for the ladies...for ratings sake.
About her looks...check out how many times guys clicked in to her shot on the beach, flying the kite.
I think I just threw up a little bit in my own mouth... :drowsy:

Yes, I'm a guy. And straight. I know she's generally considered a sex symbol, I just never got it... don't find her attractive at all, but that's just me. I tend to like petite women, but a little more than 50lbs of nothing but bone & sinew would be nice... ;)

Dude wtf? She's hot. I didn't mind seeing her in this epi in the least bit.

Dude wtf? She's hot. I didn't mind seeing her in this epi in the least bit.
I don't fault anybody else their preferences. :) I just think **MOD edited**

I did find it odd that Jack just up and slept with her for a MONTH without finding out first what her "gift" was, being the Dr. that he is. I mean, the average person who met someone who dressed and acted like her, and who received money in envelopes from men, would most-likely jump to the conclusion that she was a hooker. Yet it takes him a month to decide to find out what her money-making gift is?? It definitely wouldn't make for a great public service announcement, that's for sure!:rolleyes:

Well, this was supposed to be taking place after his divorce, so Jack is supposed to be in a low point in his life, which I think could make his choice of her more understandable. As you said, he was sort of rebelling. As for her unusual style, from a design point of view, I think it had something to do with her not being a usual person. She has this gift and I think they were trying to represent her as a sort of mystical person through her appearance.

As for Bai Ling, the only other role of hers that I know is her bit part in Revenge of the Sith.

Low point? You're much too kind with your assessment. :eek: Clearly a downward spiral into self-loathing and more feelings of insecurity. I would be more apt to be empathetic if the actress were Michelle Yao or Zhang Zhi Yi, but I suppose this is part of Jack's healing process after a marriage that should never have happened. More criptic nuances.

Again, the look of self-doubt on Jack's face when Achara told him that he will be a great leader, albeit a lonely one. Hopefully the lonely issue will be resolved down the line. Jack is in dire need of someone he can truly trust.

She is stunningly beautiful and mysterious...I totally could believe that Jack was enchanted by her. I like the casting....

the two guys i watched with were CERTAIN her character was a prostitute. the two others in the room (women, besides me), wanted to she was not. but the guys were unwaivering. so ...
trashy characterization, i think.
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ok, wait - i should qualify that statement. i worked in the travel industry for years, and really did not want to see thailand represented as a place for a lonely rich self-involved white male to escape his worries, via a dalliance with a prostitute. that would be a shitty characterization of the country, and irresponsible stereotype reinforcement by the writers/producers. her character was supposed to be independent and mystical, but... was really - not. her character came across as a manipulated,controlled commodity, whether she was a prostitute or not.

bai ling = perfection

mathew fox is so lucky

I have to say, I was expecting to hate her immensely. I read the spoiler that she was going to be in a Jack flashback, and for some reason I was expecting her to be mean.
Anyway, I liked her right away, and I think she's very pretty.
I like the how mysterious her character is, why can't she just tattoo anyone? I'm pretty sure it's more than Jack not being from there.

Didn't much care for her, although i didn't hate her. She was pretty blah to me.

definitely implied she was a prostitute - going off at night and washing off in the ocean before coming back, not telling Jack where she was, skimpy outfits and strange gifts? I agree it's a stretch that Jack would have fallen for her, but I'll ride with it. Do we know what the "5" means? On the show, anyway? Maybe the five guys who beat him up have more significance.

OK, there is a definitely a disconnect here. You're in a foreign country alone. You meet a smoking-hot young woman who then pops up in your bed for (apparently) sex without commitment, and this goes on for a month. What man wouldn't appreciate this? This is like discovering Plutonium by accident! (to borrow a line from Constanza). You Bai Ling bashers are way off target

My problem wasn't the character, but the actress. The cast of this show is either unknown to me, or strong enough actors that they can overcome whatever associations I make with them. Regarding guest stars: when Katey Segal and Swoosie Kurtz showed up in Locke's flashbacks, I obviously recognized them. When Bernard first showed up, I thought of Principal Dewey from Growing Pains. These were fleeting thoughts, though, and I was quickly drawn into the characters they play.

I'm not familiar with any of Bai Ling's work, but her acting was so abysmal that I couldn't buy into her character. All I could think of was, "how could the casting agent do this? Was he hypnotized by her **MOD edited link** and forced to agree to this?"

I cannot believe this is the best they could do for a beautiful asian actress.

reminder.

please discuss the CHARACTER and not the real life actress. you don't like the actress, fine. you can say that you don't like her, but there are to be no derogatory comments about her. don't like the character, fine. discuss away about the character. thank you.

Never having heard of or seen Bai Ling in anything, I can say simply that I thought she did a good job in the role. It's hard for a lot of actors to overcome previous roles, but looking at her performance from the epi in isolation, she convinced me of her commitment to the role.

It's interesting how many people seem to be equating "Doctor" with "Model Citizen".

A lot of Docs have tattoos.
A lot of Docs sleep with trashy women.
A lot of Docs do stupid things that could put them in physical harm, like getting tattooed in Thailand by mysterious, gifted women.

In no way do I think its out of character for Jack to shack up with a potential prostitute while in a foreign land. After all, these boards are full of speculation that he could end the series by shacking up with an escaped murdereress, for goodness sake!

her character was supposed to be independent and mystical, but... was really - not. her character came across as a manipulated,controlled commodity, whether she was a prostitute or not.

I agree. Pretty direct parallel to Juliet, except the wardrobe.

**MOD edited. really we have language filters here for a reason and you just tripped them. nice**

reminder.

please discuss the CHARACTER and not the real life actress. you don't like the actress, fine. you can say that you don't like her, but there are to be no derogatory comments about her. don't like the character, fine. discuss away about the character. thank you.
Halfrek,

Your editing of my posts makes it look I said something horrible, when all I did was express why I disliked her and thought it was a bad casting decision. If we are not to comment on the actress, then please delete comments that say she is beautiful and not just the ones that do not have a favorable opinion of her. If it's fair to support a positive position, it should be fair to post contrarian opinions as well. I'm fairly new here... do we have to be careful to post only sanctioned viewpoints? If that's the case, I'd expect only boring, one-sided discussions.

I didn't say anything obscene or offensive that would require censoring... much less anything that would elicit your edit about VIP privacy (what is that?!) "Dirty" and ***mod edited*** are far milder words than can be found in any tabloid, and certainly not any kind of privacy issue. I commented on the actress's very well documented "unconventional" reputation, which is as valid an opinion as those commenting on how "hot" she is. Both are opinions based on individual preferences and values--by disallowing commentary on one side of the issue it appears you are endorsing a position and stifling discussion.

FWIW, I'd just like to point out the title of the discussion as well.

her character enabled an explanation of some of Jacks tattoos.

Also, i think her being in Jacks flashback parallels' the story of the blonde chick; that you cant trust someone just because you are attracted to them.

I think this is the reason why we saw her. He knows nothing about Juliette, isn't satisfied with her answers to his questions and is allowing her to play him.

I think this is the reason why we saw her. He knows nothing about Juliette, isn't satisfied with her answers to his questions and is allowing her to play him.
Welcome to the Fuselage, Queenhalo. I think it's certainly very possible that Jack is repeating his mistake, but I think we may be seeing a change in Jack, and the flashback may indicate that he's learned from his mistake with Achara. I think it's very possible that he is playing them at this point, or at least thinks he is. What he is doing could be very clever manipulation on his own part. He's gotten himself out of the cages and potentially gained allies in Alex and Juliet (who, if her flashback was truthful, wants nothing more than to get off the island and back home to her sister.) Either way, I think the writers have been masterful in leaving all of this open to speculation at this point... I'm intrigued.

My hubby thought she was smokin' hot. I thought she did a good job.

I would have rather seen a less known actress in the part. I do not like Bai Ling and I am disappointed they cast her. I am even disappointed that they cast Cheech marin as Hurley's dad. I like that they introduce us to new actors. Casting these 2 just seems weird and out of place.That's just my humble opinion...
How did you find out about Hurley's Dad?? I never heard anything about that..

I think we were lead on to think she maybe a prostitute and by this show how self destructive Jack had become. We find out otherwise which basically obsolves Jack of any wrong doing by the masses who would look down upon him if he had been with a prostitute.

The characters "gift" allowed her to see who Jack really was giving her a sense of security with him then when he became aggressive she felt vulnerable which someone with her gift is not used to feeling. I liked the story but felt it really had little to do at this point with the overall story of LOST and would have been better served had we seen it in S1 to help build Jacks character.

How did you find out about Hurley's Dad?? I never heard anything about that..

LostFan710- here is a link. This is not where I heard about it, but I did a general Google search and came up with this. I originally found out on Lostpedia.com.
Be warned this link contains photos from the episode Tricia Tanaka is Dead, so only click if you want to be spoiled!

http://www.thetailsection.com/lost_spoilers/lost_tricia_tanaka_is_dead_spo.php

Was Bai Ling really in Star Wars?? Who was she?? Padme?? Yoda?? haha sorry bad joke.... I do actually remember her from an episode of "Entourage" but that's it. What else has she been in?? Anyways I think she did a pretty good job as an actress; I found her acting to be at least beliveable. I think she's pretty attractive, but what really got me was the way that she spoke!! I thought that was super-hot.

I definitely think they made her out to be a prositute, which i thought really adds to the surprise when Jack discovers the tatoo parlor. Even after Jack said "tatoo parlor" I was stil thinking "what's he talking about? it's a bordello" ha.

I think I just threw up a little bit in my own mouth... :drowsy:

Yes, I'm a guy. And straight. I know she's generally considered a sex symbol, I just never got it... don't find her attractive at all, but that's just me. I tend to like petite women, but a little more than 50lbs of nothing but bone & sinew would be nice... ;)

I don't understand what the problem is here. This is a great show. This actress, I thought, what absolutely perfect in her role. I kinda think she might have picked out her own hair, makeup and wardrobe for it...that's how much of her own personality suited the character. Sexual preference has nothing to do with admiration of human beauty. I thought she was very well suited for the roll. I don't care if any particular person likes her or not. I know very little of her in reality, but my personal opinion is she did a very good portrayal of the character intended.

I don't understand what the problem is here. This is a great show. This actress, I thought, what absolutely perfect in her role. I kinda think she might have picked out her own hair, makeup and wardrobe for it...that's how much of her own personality suited the character. Sexual preference has nothing to do with admiration of human beauty. I thought she was very well suited for the roll. I don't care if any particular person likes her or not. I know very little of her in reality, but my personal opinion is she did a very good portrayal of the character intended.
Well stated. She suited the role and portrayed what they wanted. She did not write or direct the scenes so outside of the fact that she does not fit some peoples image of a person Jack would be attracted to, what is the problem with the actress? I liked her as a choice for this role and thought she did a good job with what she had to work with.

***mod edited to remove rudeness toward a VIP of the show***

oh,well..we can only wait and see whats in store for us poor addicts.

Was Bai Ling really in Star Wars?? Who was she?? Padme?? Yoda?? haha sorry bad joke.... <snip>
She shot some scenes for Revenge of the Sith, but they were cut in the final edit because of the Playboy spread. Spielberg concerned for image and all that, with Star Wars being family fare.
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I don't understand what the problem is here. This is a great show. This actress, I thought, what absolutely perfect in her role. I kinda think she might have picked out her own hair, makeup and wardrobe for it...that's how much of her own personality suited the character. Sexual preference has nothing to do with admiration of human beauty. I thought she was very well suited for the roll. I don't care if any particular person likes her or not. I know very little of her in reality, but my personal opinion is she did a very good portrayal of the character intended.
I'm of the opinion that the best actors are a blank canvas, so to speak. A good actor can pull off most if not any role, they project the character they are portraying... if they just play themselves, how good of an actor are they? In this case, we have an actress who, based on her public image, fashion sense/style, self-promotion, interviews, etc, basically played herself on the show. While I'm sure that must be what TPTB were going for, I just personally find it to be a bad thing when one can't displace perception of the actor in order to see the character being portrayed... it makes it more difficult to suspend disbelief enough to enjoy the performance. I mean, we don't watch the show to see Matthew Fox, but to see what happens to Jack Shepard. We don't want to see Evangeline Lilly, it's about Kate. But last week, I couldn't see Achara, because all that was on my screen was Bai Ling. Considering how adept TPTB have proven themselves to be in their casting decisions, I just didn't feel this one was up to par for them. Obviously, I appear to be in the minority, but that's how I feel

If you weren't familiar with her before this role on Lost, your perception would likely be different. Here is a link to her fan site. The current top story links to a very short but illuminating interview with her: **MOD edited to remove link**

I don't see anything wrong with the actress...and what she does is her choice, not everyone is going to label her in a negative way, and, why should they? If someone is in this media, acting, singing, socializing...we aren't seeing the real person anyway, we are seeing a character they want to personify. Her choice.
The only problem I had with the casting choice, and I certainly am a million miles away from the gift of being able to cast characters for a show like Lost, is that I think they wanted to show Jack as really getting away from the pain of his previous life and experience something completely different, a complete opposite. The last thing he would have been looking for would be reminders of his past, and his failures. I just think it could have been done with the exact same actress...beauty, talent, vitality...without trying to set her up with the spiked-heel symbolism. Sheesh and yike. Lost is like our baby, why wouldn't we want to hold it to a higher standard? That stuff you can get anywhere...in fact, everywhere. Did I mention this is one of the best written epi's yet? I think I would have gone with dark and mysterious for the character. Out with the blonde, in with the exotic. No problem. Plus, it probably would have opened doors for her career...maybe next time?

bai ling just played herself as usual.But shes underqualified to play a tattoo artist!!come on,she couldnt do that in a million years:cool:i mean it..

I don't see anything wrong with the actress...and what she does is her choice, not everyone is going to label her in a negative way, and, why should they?
I can only speak for myself, but I would never suggest everyone has to have the same opinion, though I do find it oppressive that having a negative opinion is so frowned upon that posts (possessing no trace of obscenity or vulgarity) are edited and deleted, simply because they are not favorable to a guest actor.


Lost is like our baby, why wouldn't we want to hold it to a higher standard? That stuff you can get anywhere...in fact, everywhere. Did I mention this is one of the best written epi's yet? I think I would have gone with dark and mysterious for the character. I think Lost is the best show currently on TV, and one of the best I can recall in my lifetime, and that is precisely why I expect them to maintain a higher standard--they've set the bar quite high, indeed. In this instance, I simply thought they fell short... playing oneself is difficult to pass off as mysterious, IMO.

And I agree with you, I thought this was a great episode, in spite of my misgivings re: guest cast. ;) I'm actually quite surprised by how negatively it's being received in general, I thought it brought a good amount of resolution about and was a necessary transition episode to the coming storylines. I enjoyed it, as found myself in an extended conversation on the phone with my brother discussing the show afterwards. I think people will have a different opinion of this ep after the next few shows air, and especially watching them on DVD.

i think the sequence where Bai Ling gets cornered by Jack and then in lack of a better alternative,gives the speech about jack being ''a lonely leader'' and that she reads people's minds and marks em is by far THE CHEESIEST MOMENT in lost so far...shes so underqualified ,it hurts...couldnt deliver a single line...lame

bai ling just played herself as usual.
My sentiment exactly, said in far fewer words. Brevity's not my strong suit. :undecide:

This thread is confusing because Bai Ling is the actress, and Achara is the character.. which one are we discussing here? Everyone seems to be mixing them together for some reason.. There's a thread about Isabel, but I dont see anyone saying, "when Diana Scarwid told Jack what his tattoo said.... "
What the actress does outside of Lost should not matter one bit.

This thread is confusing because Bai Ling is the actress, and Achara is the character.. which one are we discussing here? Everyone seems to be mixing them together for some reason.. There's a thread about Isabel, but I dont see anyone saying, "when Diana Scarwid told Jack what his tattoo said.... "
What the actress does outside of Lost should not matter one bit.
A fine example. People saw Isabel, not Diana Scarwid. But Bai Ling is always Bai Ling.

What the actress does outside of Lost should not matter one bit.

Very good point....PLUS...it is against the rules of this site to heap rudeness on the show's VIPs.

If posters cannot grasp this simple fact then the thead will be closed.

A fine example. People saw Isabel, not Diana Scarwid. But Bai Ling is always Bai Ling.


I know people got warned for being too vocal about some actor's abilities, me being one of those. However, Matthew fox and all others are actors that, apart from their acting roles, can in their own way be described as sort of normal people. This actress, from the link given earlier in the thread (I'm in Europe, I had NO idea who she was), was BOUND to create controversy.

I don't know how exactly we can word it differently, mods; Most people seem to think her acting was very subpar compared to lost standards and on top of that she is incredibly outspoken about her personal life herself. To be honest, that article somehow offended me I'd even say.

There's not a lot else to be said about Achara, I'm afraid, because at this point, no-one cares about such a new character in lost (Special, heh...); But the choice of actors can be discussed by TPTB I feel, sorry. Warn me again for speaking my mind, if you will...

She was probably chosen for her life behind the scenes for this role because the role was kind of bland, and her sexuality was not really used in a subtle way was it?

A fine example. People saw Isabel, not Diana Scarwid. But Bai Ling is always Bai Ling.


No, people do not get banned for not liking someone, but they do get called out for being rude:

Poster: "I didn't care for the way John Doe portrayed Johnny in this episode, it didn't seem believeable to me.... "

Poster #2: "OMG that John Doe is crap, he/she can't act if they're life depended on it, they're so dumb."

See the difference?

No, people do not get banned for not liking someone, but they do get called out for being rude:

Poster: "I didn't care for the way John Doe portrayed Johnny in this episode, it didn't seem believeable to me.... "

Poster #2: "OMG that John Doe is crap, he/she can't act if they're life depended on it, they're so dumb."

See the difference?
Is it really necessary to condescend? Are you equating my posts to your example #2... dumbing them down to that level? I fail to see how that applies to me. You are welcome to have a different opinion than mine, but if you are going to imply that I am being rude, I would prefer that you simply address what exactly I said that was rude or puts me in danger of getting banned, rather than using some arbitrary example, which, it must be said, is in reality no better than the "she's so hot" posts that dominate much of the thread... though it appears one vapid opinion is permitted and the other is not, simply because one is officially sanctioned.

Perhaps I misunderstand your response, because all I've done is make well-reasoned criticisms based on the actor's publicly promoted image, the decision to cast said actor, and the performance within the show, and backed up those opinions... all without name calling, obscenity, vulgarity, or anything else that would call for censorship or moderation according to the forum rules. If that's what you read in my posts, then the issue is one of comprehension.

She shot some scenes for Revenge of the Sith, but they were cut in the final edit because of the Playboy spread. Spielberg concerned for image and all that, with Star Wars being family fare.
100%

I'm of the opinion that the best actors are a blank canvas, so to speak. A good actor can pull off most if not any role, they project the character they are portraying... if they just play themselves, how good of an actor are they? In this case, we have an actress who, based on her public image, fashion sense/style, self-promotion, interviews, etc, basically played herself on the show. While I'm sure that must be what TPTB were going for, I just personally find it to be a bad thing when one can't displace perception of the actor in order to see the character being portrayed... it makes it more difficult to suspend disbelief enough to enjoy the performance. I mean, we don't watch the show to see Matthew Fox, but to see what happens to Jack Shepard. We don't want to see Evangeline Lilly, it's about Kate. But last week, I couldn't see Achara, because all that was on my screen was Bai Ling. Considering how adept TPTB have proven themselves to be in their casting decisions, I just didn't feel this one was up to par for them. Obviously, I appear to be in the minority, but that's how I feel

If you weren't familiar with her before this role on Lost, your perception would likely be different. Here is a link to her fan site. The current top story links to a very short but illuminating interview with her: **MOD edited**

:hesaid: I agree with you. I could not focus on the character Achara, all I could see was the actress.

You are being condescending... is that necessary? Because it doesn't come across in a very friendly manner. Are you equating my posts to your example #2, or dumbing them down to that level? I fail to see how that applies to my opinion or the criticism I've leveled here.

Perhaps I misunderstand your response, because all I've done is make well-reasoned criticisms based on the actor's publicly promoted image, the decision to cast said actor, and the performance within the show, and backed up those opinions... all without name calling, obscenity, vulgarity, or anything else that would call for censorship or moderation according to the forum rules. If that's what you read in my posts, then the issue is one of comprehension.

I wasn't referring to anything you've posted, I was answering your question about people getting banned for not liking someone. I'm talking about posts against actors, actresses, or other posters. I'm sorry that you thought I was condescending, I did not mean to come off that way. There are some people that truly dont realize what can and can't be said here, as you can see by all the edited posts. Trust me, I was guilty of it myself when Ana Lucia was first added to the cast.

There are some people that truly dont realize what can and can't be said here, as you can see by all the edited posts. Trust me, I was guilty of it myself when Ana Lucia was first added to the cast. Hey, hey I liked Ana Lucia :mad: But I did get called on a remark about Sawyer & Jack one time.

I think the enforcement of the guidelines properly reflects that this is a fan forum not a free speech board so non-positive comments receive more scrutiny and have more limitations than uncritical or positive remarks.

I was not familiar with Bai Ling so I saw her character only as bringing out a part of Jack that TPTB wanted us to see. However I know that my knowledge of past roles, appearances and interviews has had an effect on how I perceive a few of the Lost characters.

Please get back on topic here. This is not the "one time on the Fuselage I was warned/edited/whatever" thread. Thank you.

I wasn't referring to anything you've posted, I was answering your question about people getting banned for not liking someone. I'm talking about posts against actors, actresses, or other posters. I'm sorry that you thought I was condescending, I did not mean to come off that way. There are some people that truly dont realize what can and can't be said here, as you can see by all the edited posts. Trust me, I was guilty of it myself when Ana Lucia was first added to the cast.
Fair enough, I'm sorry for taking it the wrong way.

Ana Lucia was certainly another actress that engendered strong feelings, but I actually enjoyed her character on the show... I think I was overwhelmingly in the minority there, as well. :cool:
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Please get back on topic here. This is not the "one time on the Fuselage I was warned/edited/whatever" thread. Thank you.
It is the Bai Ling thread, and I am interested to know what necessitated removing a link to her fan site, with her own words in her own interview, from my post on the prior page? I am not trying to be a smart-alec here... am I missing something in the rules? Are an actor's own words not permitted here? Is honest discussion not encouraged? It's your house, and I'm happy to oblige your rules... but it appears heavy-handed and arbitrary from where I stand.

edit: <deleted> nm on the other thing, I found it in the control panel.

I don't know much about Bai Ling, but I wasn't too impressed with her acting or her character. I'm glad they finally put some detail on the tattoo issue, but I hope that is the end of her run on the show. I think they needed to tell Jacks story and I think they had a good idea, but it didn't play out as well as they planned. IMO. She didn't have much depth which is how the character wanted to be and I think what Jack wanted. He just wanted to have fun at his own risk.

Did Bai-Ling first become famous for keeping a blog keeping track of all her sexual exploits, a kind of Chinese sex-in-the-city?? And there was a lot fo controversy because the Chinese goverment was really not happy and was trying to censor it??

I used to live in China, and while I was there I can remember a lot of controvery about this woman (Bai-Ling is like 10x more risque in China!!). I guess I never made the connection that this was the same woman. She also didn't use to be an actress....

Anyways... I agree with Lostgurl that we shouldn't confuse Bai-Ling with Achara, but unfortunately I'm not sure that we really have a choice. I think this case is different than the usual case of typecasting, because Bai-Ling isn't well-known for role's she's played in the past; she's known for her sexuality as an individual, and I think it's really hard for people to be objective about this issue. I think this is the key factor behind the controversy surrounding her; it has nothing at all to do with her acting.

Anyways... I agree with Lostgurl that we shouldn't confuse Bai-Ling with Achara, but unfortunately I'm not sure that we really have a choice. I think this case is different than the usual case of typecasting, because Bai-Ling isn't well-known for role's she's played in the past; she's known for her sexuality as an individual, and I think it's really hard for people to be objective about this issue. I think this is the key factor behind the controversy surrounding her; it has nothing at all to do with her acting.

Well unfortunately you all are going to have to find a way to do just this. According to our site rules, which all of you should be familiar with, there are specific rules regarding VIP discussions. I am posting them below for the benefit of anyone who has "forgotten" what they are. Please familiarize yourself with these rules and post accordingly.

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Disrespectful personal comments about any VIP of this site or in connection to the show, are not tolerated. You are welcome to discuss their work, criticize their abilities as writers/actors/etc., and comment on their merits/performance, but personal attacks against them, anything regarded as a personal affront, is expressly against our rules. Any intrusion into their private lives including but not limited to paparazzi photos or articles or rumors not directly commented on by the VIP in question are strictly prohibited. Please refer to the FAQ (http://www.thefuselage.com/Threaded/faq.php?faq=site_rules_and_info#faq_vip_parent_cat egory) for more in depth information on posting to the VIPs.

The first post stated, “I understand the show is trying to do something different and something new.” The part seemed to call for an Asian actress so running through my mind I am aware of and have enjoyed watching the following better actresses who could have been considered for the part: YunJin Kim is an obvious non-choice for this part leaving Grace Park , Kelly Hu, Linda Park, Michelle Yeoh , Maggie Cheung, Zhang Ziyi, Kristin Kreuk, Michaela Conlin, Nicole Bilderback, Sandra Oh and Keiko Agena (is Keiko pg in real life?) I know I have missed some/many but since I was aware of all of these and not aware of Bai Ling as an actress she was to my mind something new. Therefore since the part was in my opinion a one shot appearance, I was satisfied with the choice of Bai Ling.

diabolo237 - or any other mod - Could you please delete my quote from your above post?? It is taken out of context, and might give the false impression that I have broken the rules or have, in any way, behaved inapropriately .

Thanks for the change - appreciate it

Personally, I don't think Bai Ling is the best actess out there, but I know there are a lot out there who are worse. I don't know why there's such hate for her.

diabolo237 - or any other mod - Could you please delete my quote from your above post?? It is taken out of context, and might give the false impression that I have broken the rules or have, in any way, behaved inapropriately .

Erik, you didn't do anything wrong nor break any rules. I was using your statement to illustrate what should not take place in this thread. Your post is fine. Thanks

since I was aware of all of these and not aware of Bai Ling as an actress she was to my mind something new. Therefore since the part was in my opinion a one shot appearance, I was satisfied with the choice of Bai Ling.
actually,no,rumor has it(well actually more than just a rumor)that she s signed a three epi contract

This actress, from the link given earlier in the thread (I'm in Europe, I had NO idea who she was), was BOUND to create controversy.

I don't know how exactly we can word it differently, mods; Most people seem to think her acting was very subpar compared to lost standards and on top of that she is incredibly outspoken about her personal life herself. To be honest, that article somehow offended me I'd even say.


I agree it's hard to get past what I've read about her, and it was her quotes, she who spoke freely about herself, not second hand gossip. I liked her in Red Corner, a movie with Richard Gere, she's very plain, almost unrecognizable playing a Chinese lawyer.

Well since America isn't ready for Asians on t.v., they have to put "socialite" asians on the screen. Bai Ling tries to represent herself as the asian paris hilton, so I guess that's how she got the part. What other asian female actor do you know of? That's what I thought..

So before you guys go hating on Bai Ling, just remember you would have been hating on any other asian actor they would have put. Most of you will say you wouldn't, but trust me, majority would hate.

American Idol, first person to get eliminate from top 24, korean guy named paul kim.
By far not the best singer, but also not the worst. Why did he go first? Cause he's asian.

When people see bai ling on this episode, alot of the same thoughts might come up when you see paris hilton on screen. You see her in skimpy clothing as well as having sex with jack.

I can't hate Bai Ling for what she's doing, but I do. yeah I can't stand her cause I know there's thousands of other asian actresses that could have done that same part better. But at least she's putting it down for the asian's, and now we get to see white america white hate on her as well.

I think, too, that having someone who was the total opposite (not all blonde and cheerleadery) made sense. Jack's been betrayed by that type (we know the wifey, and probably others) so why not go for something different... go dark, go mysterious, go seductive... time for a change!

Well since America isn't ready for Asians on t.v., they have to put "socialite" asians on the screen. Bai Ling tries to represent herself as the asian paris hilton, so I guess that's how she got the part. What other asian female actor do you know of? That's what I thought.Stereotype much? Excluding the female Asian newscaster we watch every night on a local TV channel there are the following I can think of off hand in a short time. YunJin Kim, Grace Park, Kelly Hu, Lucy Lieu, Linda Park, Michelle Yeoh , Maggie Cheung, Zhang Ziyi, Kristin Kreuk, Michaela Conlin, Nicole Bilderback, Sandra Oh and Keiko Agena. (Oops 13 is an unlucky number.:eek2: ) OK Kreuk and Conlin are part white but still there are a few Asian Actresses out there who are known in the US. But at least she's putting it down for the asian's, and now we get to see white america white hate on her as wellAs one of your hate filled white Americans, one who has several Asian friends & co-workers, I must say I prefer Bai Ling to Paris Hilton for the part of Jack's tattoo artist.

By the way you capitalized Bai Ling but did not capitalize Paris Hilton.

She shot some scenes for Revenge of the Sith, but they were cut in the final edit because of the Playboy spread. Spielberg concerned for image and all that, with Star Wars being family fare.
100%

I'm of the opinion that the best actors are a blank canvas, so to speak. A good actor can pull off most if not any role, they project the character they are portraying... if they just play themselves, how good of an actor are they? In this case, we have an actress who, based on her public image, fashion sense/style, self-promotion, interviews, etc, basically played herself on the show. While I'm sure that must be what TPTB were going for, I just personally find it to be a bad thing when one can't displace perception of the actor in order to see the character being portrayed... it makes it more difficult to suspend disbelief enough to enjoy the performance. I mean, we don't watch the show to see Matthew Fox, but to see what happens to Jack Shepard. We don't want to see Evangeline Lilly, it's about Kate. But last week, I couldn't see Achara, because all that was on my screen was Bai Ling. Considering how adept TPTB have proven themselves to be in their casting decisions, I just didn't feel this one was up to par for them. Obviously, I appear to be in the minority, but that's how I feel

If you weren't familiar with her before this role on Lost, your perception would likely be different. Here is a link to her fan site. The current top story links to a very short but illuminating interview with her: **MOD edited to remove link**

Well, maybe they cast her because they knew she would draw so much attention.

Try naming those names without the internet..see how far it will get you

Well since America isn't ready for Asians on t.v., they have to put "socialite" asians on the screen. Bai Ling tries to represent herself as the asian paris hilton, so I guess that's how she got the part. What other asian female actor do you know of? That's what I thought..

So before you guys go hating on Bai Ling, just remember you would have been hating on any other asian actor they would have put. Most of you will say you wouldn't, but trust me, majority would hate.

American Idol, first person to get eliminate from top 24, korean guy named paul kim.
By far not the best singer, but also not the worst. Why did he go first? Cause he's asian.

When people see bai ling on this episode, alot of the same thoughts might come up when you see paris hilton on screen. You see her in skimpy clothing as well as having sex with jack.

I can't hate Bai Ling for what she's doing, but I do. yeah I can't stand her cause I know there's thousands of other asian actresses that could have done that same part better. But at least she's putting it down for the asian's, and now we get to see white america white hate on her as well.


that's enough...this can be discussed WITHOUT the accusations of racism. any further baiting remarks will be deleted and may earn you points.

Try naming those names without the internet..see how far it will get youI did and I only got up to 13 names. Wonder how high I could get if I used the internet? :rolleyes: OK I did check one of my DVD;s to spell Zhang Ziyi :redface:

I see and share to a degree your concern about where some of the Bai Ling comments might be coming from but your post sterotyped white Americans which could indicate a similar problem to the one you are concerned about.

Guess we are both off topic so will drop out of this discussion.

um, i just found the character's highlights in her hair to be gross. i'd like to discuss her as a character in reference to the show, not who she is in real life.

she seemed like such an out-of-character choice for jack. was that the point?

um, i just found the character's highlights in her hair to be gross. i'd like to discuss her as a character in reference to the show, not who she is in real life.

she seemed like such an out-of-character choice for jack. was that the point?

I think the point with the character was that to him she was dark, mysterious and potentially dangerous which coincides with the dark, mysterious and potentially dangerous Juliet. If Jack does have a "type" of woman he's drawn to, he does seem to be almost magnetically drawn to dark, mysterious and potentially dangerous women. Perhaps that is why his marriage failed. His wife is pretty much the opposite of all the other women that seem to catch Jack's attention.

Achara
Kate
Juliet
Ana Lucia
Gabriella (dark, mysterious and dangerous because he was married)

um, i just found the character's highlights in her hair to be gross. i'd like to discuss her as a character in reference to the show, not who she is in real life.

she seemed like such an out-of-character choice for jack. was that the point?

I thought her highlights were aiming at a beautiful exotic bird. I'm sorry, I just can't hate her. I saw her twice on a talk show. I think she's alot smarter than the act she puts on. She is bizzar and feminine. If you were really in Phuket, you might see someone like her. Maybe not quite as fashionable, but similar.

Why did they make her seem like a prostitute? I mean I thought the entire episode that's what she was. And when she came home to Jack and they kissed and he said 'your kiss is salty' (or something like that) I immediatley thought something **MOD edited**.. Anyhow I thought that was weird- and then she said she went for a swim- but her hair and make-up were intact. I don't know- I thought for sure she was a prostitute and was lying to Jack. Don't you think Jack thought the same thing? But he didn't mind until like a month later when he followed her to find out what she really does. I think Jack being a doctor, would not sleep with someone if he thought she was a prostitute (STDs)... Am I way off base here...?? Did anyone else think she was a hooker?
Now, why was her being a tattoo artist such a big secret?
Why did that guy pay her in a big white envelope full of cash like she was a drug dealer or something... Can anyone shed any light on why her profession was such a BIG mystery??
:confused: :confused: :confused:

Why did they make her seem like a prostitute? I mean I thought the entire episode that's what she was. And when she came home to Jack and they kissed and he said 'your kiss is salty' (or something like that) I immediatley thought something**MOD edited**.. Anyhow I thought that was weird- and then she said she went for a swim- but her hair and make-up were intact. I don't know- I thought for sure she was a prostitute and was lying to Jack. Don't you think Jack thought the same thing? But he didn't mind until like a month later when he followed her to find out what she really does. I think Jack being a doctor, would not sleep with someone if he thought she was a prostitute (STDs)... Am I way off base here...?? Did anyone else think she was a hooker?
Now, why was her being a tattoo artist such a big secret?
Why did that guy pay her in a big white envelope full of cash like she was a drug dealer or something... Can anyone shed any light on why her profession was such a BIG mystery??
:confused: :confused: :confused:


are you looking at the same lady i am. i mean look at her outfits, and the way she carries herself. she is overflowing with sexuality. this is one thing, let me tell you, that hookers are good at....the acting like they are constantly 100% turned on and horny. Bai Ling fits that description.

plus, didnt you see her on that "singing with the stars" tv show. where she sang madonnas like a virgin while wearing a short skirt wedding dress with only a thong on.

if it looks like a hooker, acts like a hooker, then there's a good chance its a hooker

I would have rather seen a less known actress in the part. I do not like Bai Ling and I am disappointed they cast her. I am even disappointed that they cast Cheech marin as Hurley's dad. I like that they introduce us to new actors. Casting these 2 just seems weird and out of place.That's just my humble opinion...

Just to put another point of view on it - I'd never heard of Bai Ling and she certainly brightened up my viewing experience :redface: :redface: :redface:

Don't worry though, I have researched her thoroughly on the interweb and will know her for next time :D

lovely to find such in depth discussion here. :rolleyes: i think that this thread has run its course. for some reason you all think that discussing Bai Ling and her personal life is acceptable and related in the context of the character that she played. only, you know, it is not.

thread closed now.