I was somewhat dismissive of Bravo's "Make Me a Supermodel" (10 p.m. Thursday) when it premiered last month, but since then it's grown into my favorite TV guilty pleasure, as discussed in yesterday's Tuned In Podcast. And I'm not sure why I like it so much.

I have no interest in modeling, never watched much of "America's Next Top Model." I had been watching "Project Runway," but lately it's been boring me. I think what "Supermodel" reminds me of most is the London season of MTV's "Real World." That season, less successful in the ratings than many others, was notable for the fact that everyone got along. Everyone was friendly, nice and pretty well-behaved, compared to the show's tame seasons back then and especially compared to today.

Similarly, the models -- men and women -- on "Make Me a Supermodel" largely get along. The guys, in particular, are quite chummy. But even among the girls there are no catfights. Maybe it's because America calls in to vote for who gets sent home each week and they don't want to rub viewers the wrong way. But I think in those situations, reality show stars forget about the cameras after a while.

Among these wannabe "Supermodels," most of them seem relatively well-adjusted, intelligent and not too in love with themselves.

Perhaps mosr fascinating is the relationship between straight, married, Southerner Ben and openly gay Chicago native Ronnie. These guys have bonded to a surprising degree. Ronnie even has a crush on Ben and Ben doesn't care. He actually seems to enjoy the attention. It's a fascinating dynamic and so different from what one might expect (the tough straight guy getting angry at the affectionate gay guy for paying him too much attention).

Ultimately, I think the casting is what makes "Supermodel" so enjoyable. It's certainly not the hosts. Nikki Taylor is OK, but Tyson Beckford seems like a robot, particularly when delivering the show's dismissal: "I'm sorry, we can't make you a supermodel."