As any ESC fan knows, there are mediocre songs which suddenly shine on stage, just as there are favourites that don’t get a favourable treatment. So let’s find out how things are looking on stage in Kyiv!

See the bottom of this post to find out how the total scores are calculated, as well as other detailed explanations.

10. San Marino
Valentina Monetta & Jimmie Wilson – Spirit Of The Night

Total score for San Marino: 19.5 (out of 40)

If you expect me to write unfair negative things about Valentina, then you don’t know me well enough. I will only write fair negative things about Valentina: Her stage outfit is the main problem here, especially the cap. The presentation would benefit from her going for something more stylish but less wannabe-cool.

11. Croatia
Jacques Houdek – My Friend

Total score for Croatia: 31.5 (out of 40)

Before you all call the supervisor of this website and ask him to remove me from the team, remember this series isn’t about the song. So, I ask you this: How do you present an abysmal song? THIS is how you present an abysmal song!!!

12. Norway
JOWST – Grab The Moment

Total verdict for Norway: 21.0 (out of 40)

What we see here is a modern, catchy staging of a modern, catchy song. All well done here, and the camerawork needs a special mention here.

Winning these three: Croatia

Well, sorry folks, but.

Explanations

What the categories mean

Concept: Meaning the idea behind what the performers are actually doing on stage, ignoring how well their performance is executed.

Look: Hairdo, clothes, but also attractiveness or likability play a role here.

Stage: Use of backdrop, lights and colours.

Camera: The camerawork, judging by the official snippets.

Performance: How well the concept is executed. Movements, facial expressions, finding cameras.

Vocals: Well, how well can the entrant actually sing?

What the stars mean

1 star – Counterproductive, doesn’t do the song any favours
2 stars – Mediocre, doesn’t help nor ruin the song
3 stars – Decent, supports the song well enough.
4 stars – Literally outstanding, unique in the context of this year

How the total score is calculated

1 star = 0 points
2 stars = 1 point
3 stars = 2 points
4 stars = 4 points

For the total score, “Vocals” is weighted x5, “Performance” x3, the other four categories x0.5.