A couple think they are going to be contestants on a cheesy internet game show where the top prize is $2,500. But when they get to the studio, one of them is pulled aside to the other, larger studio of "Separation Anxiety". He or she is then told that the actual top prize is $250,000! Meanwhile, the first member of the team is playing the faux game with a host, Adam Ray, who is occasionally given instruction to behave in bizarre ways by the real host, Iliza Shlesinger, who is in the larger studio.
We view both studios as the contestant in on the prank chooses the categories of the questions given to the other contestant. If ever a question is answered incorrectly, the team loses its money. The contestant answering the questions is the only one who can stop the quiz at any level. But he has no idea how much they are really playing for. Their partner knows the real stakes, but has little control over the outcome. Real anxiety is involved. But when the stakes get higher, Iliza does offer opportunities to bail out--with a monetary penalty.
Certain elements of the show are silly or irrelevant, but what other game show will give you $25,000 for answering five multiple-choice questions? And the questions are not terribly hard.
After watching the first episode, I was not very impressed, but later shows convinced me the show is good mindless entertainment. I think Iliza hits her stride a few episodes in and it becomes good fun.
This is an ADULT show, featuring language not suitable for children. It also includes a bartender named Victoria, who mostly just smiles, and Iliza's dog (just because).
If you like hidden camera shows or comedy game shows, you might enjoy "Separation Anxiety".
Update 5/26/16: After watching episode 12, I am increasing my grade to "9". I just really enjoying watching. It's a relaxing bit of fun. In large part, this is because they do a good job of choosing the contestants. I find myself aligning with the couples and rooting for them. I might even have shed a tear or two at their fortunes.
