For what it's worth, I don't believe the pool action is scripted and here is why. None of these people are actors and like most sports, pool has it's own language. These are players and what we hear them saying is what we would hear in any pool room and it is all pretty natural. I don't think you can write that stuff unless you are a player and even then to get them to deliver it... Now I do think they may encouraged by the director to be more vocal they might normally be while watching a match, to add drama. I also believe the games are real (another reason scripting comments would be near impossible imo) but probably not the money...they do edit them to keep the action moving and that is why sometimes the balls move. I think they do a pretty good job overall with a this tricky task.
The one on one interviews and some of the non pool 'scenes" maybe scripted to degree. I felt like the mock engagement diner was scripted, it all sounded a little forced. I def think there is an overall plan and they have set up characters and rivalries that might not have been there otherwise. Though I do know, since Jen is a good friend and I don't think she would mind me saying, since it is on the show. The issue with her husband and the pressure he puts on her is a real issue. I also know none of the females on the show like Ross's GF Amy, not sure about the guys.
Anyway, it is very entertaining and I think they have done a very good job of making it more accessible to the masses. This I think is the big hurtle for pool, I am sitting here watching Wimbledon along with millions of other people. It is fast and exciting but at it's core a very simple game. Anyone can follow it with little knowledge of the game, same for many popular sports.
Pool is complicated and nuanced and when played well, looks like a much easier game than it really is. We all know this but for the casual observer it is not easy to follow. I am crossing my fingers that this show gets picked up, it is seriously the biggest thing to happen to pool since The Color of Money and whether you like it or not, if you want to see pool grow (along with the $$$$) you might want to help cheer it on. Tell your friends, post on your SN, even get your pool room to show it!
