The Hamptons

To Barbara Kopple - With all the hype and all the expectation, "The Hamptons" was terrible. Perhaps you were influenced by ABC to create a "Reality TV" program of tacky, low class kids, thinking about nothing more than getting lucky. But what a woefully limited picture you painted.

Of course there are tacky people in the Hamptons, as there are everywhere. But where was the rich tapestry of 'locals' and weekenders? Where was the interplay of writers and musicians, the artists and supporters of the arts? Where were the shopkeepers and housekeepers and working people who have made the Hamptons their home? Where were the immigrant workers -- the lawn mowers and day laborers --building a life here? Where were the long time residents, the old time families? Where were the images of the beautiful towns that make this part of the world so special?

Where was any semblance of the richness and beauty and natural magic and light and relationships that make the Hamptons special? OK, throw in some sex and violence to help sell the thing. But how could you completely miss the essence, the heart of this place?

Happily, viewership was as dismal as the show. But what a shame that you didn't use your talents to produce a piece that reflected your abilities -- and the real world of the Hamptons.