"The Toy Box" is a competition show in which the contestants have to successfully pass through two elimination rounds to qualify for the grand prize--a contract with Mattel to market their product.
The contestants come armed with their stories of hardship, hoping for their big break. The success of "Shark Tank" was destined to spawn spin-offs and rip-offs: "The Toy Box" offers some variations from the original blueprint.
The marketing talents of the contestants seems less a factor than on "Shark Tank". The products themselves are being judged.
The first elimination round requires approval by at least two of three "mentors" on a panel of experts. These experts offer advice and voice their concerns and endorsements. Concepts like safety and replay-ability are considered.
Those who pass the first round then pitch their products to a panel of four children, who might be considered precocious or overly dramatic (or both). One of the judges is Sophia Grace, who is fairly well known, thanks to Ellen DeGeneres. Another is Noah, a kid who riffs to his own beat. Some viewers will enjoy these walking memebots; others may just be annoyed.
At the end of each episode, the remaining contestants receive their verdicts from the children by way of a "Magic 8-ball" message. This part of the show feels rushed and sloppy.
The children, despite their non sequiturs and contradictions, seem to make reasonable decisions. And you have to love a 7-year-old who says, "Life is always about taking risks." Tell that to the adults.
The ultimate winner of each episode becomes eligible for the contract with Mattel. On the season finale, the bigger winner is announced and the chosen toy will become immediately available in stores.
