Remote patrol weekend

In the next few weeks, "Making the Band" will show the real-life evolution of a new "boy band" - those post-teen sensations that sing in five-part harmony. Tonight's episode, airing at 8 on ABC (Channel 9), shows highlights from a nationwide search and the selection of 25 finalists, who are whittled down by show's end to just eight. Judging from the first episode, "Making the Band" appears to be the latest in a disturbing trend of so-called "reality TV" shows that don't play fair with the viewer. The band is being put together by impresario Lou Pearlman, who created the Backstreet Boys and 'N Sync out of his studios in Orlando. But it's clear Pearlman laid down some terms in exchange for letting the cameras in. Though he is a constant presence on the show, the focus is never really on Pearlman. Instead, the camera has an endless fascination with these young men talking about their hopes and dreams. I was hoping for a lot more insight into Pearlman: why he thinks the world needs yet another boy band and what he thinks about having so much power over these aspiring crooners. "Making the Band" is co-produced by MTV, noted for celebrity-worshipping programs like "TRL" and "Fanatic" - and it certainly shows here. @ART CAPTION:A group of hunky hopeful boy-banders @ART:Photo >>>