Mad Men vs. Trust Me

Fast forward from Mad Men nearly 50 years. We arrive at Trust Me, a new cable series on TNT. Since well before its mid-season debut the network has been hyping the show with unfettered fervor. TNT must seize this window of opportunity: during these next few months while Mad Men is on hiatus.

Both shows, ostensibly about high powered men in the creative departments at cutting edge advertising agencies, fall into totally different categories when it comes to execution. The macho, suave, sexism that makes Mad Man cool and relevant is precisely what Trust Me lacks. Instead of quiet self-confidence and dashing brashness, Trust Me coughs up weak characters lame with insecurities and an obsessive need to affirm their self-worth through uninspiring work.

Meet Mason, one of Trust Me's intentionally affable protagonists. He has an amazing job, as newly appointed Creative Director of some fabulous Chicago ad agency, and a gorgeous wife. But he is no Don Draper.

Instead, Mason is faithful, humble and domestic. He's neither clever or subtle and few in his department subordinates look up to him or take him seriously. He works haphazardly and takes everything personally. He whines and pleads desperately, apologizes awkwardly and dresses like he's a wannabe West Coast hipster.