Actually, they do disclose the city information. They did it in almost every round I think. But US is definitely not as regionalistic as India. Having ONE language probably helps.
I am watching American Idol since last two seasons.
the main differences between AI n II are like this.
1. American Idol contestants are more professional, n more focused. and put in lot of hard work, which is evidently seen. episode after episode, their performance level goes up...usually!
2. they are more open to criticism. and they try to take it with positive frame of mind, and try to improve inthat particular aspect.
3. yes, as you said, they are not tat much bothered abt looks are wat they r wearing. for me, they look very down to earth n a firm headon their shoulders.
coming to American Idol voting
1. more matured voting, the thing that they give importance only to talent is very evident by looking at the ppl who get voted out, and who get sailed to the next round. if "mandisa" is in Indian Idol, she would have voted out in the 1st place, jus becoz she is heavy set. or Fantasia baritto would have lost to diana degarbo. or ruben Stddurd ould have never won.
2. one major important point is you can very clearly guess who gets voted out in one particular GALA. you know who didnt perform well, and results always prove that. there usually wont be surprises in who gets voted out. till now, i could almost get it right! that itself speaks volumes...how responsible are american ppl...they understand their responsibility and vote with lots of respect to the talent...which is missing in Indian Idol voting.
btw my favourites in this new season of American Idol are Paris, mandisa, Lisa, Chris,Elliot,Katherine!! and this chicken little too...( kevin covais)
