rideclutch
Active Member
We're well into the 2nd Series of TG US now, and I think there's enough interest to start one of these threads. If you've got a thought about TG US that doesn't require a new thread, post here. I'll get the ball rolling...
On the back of Episode 4, I think there's a lot to like about the latest run of Top Gear USA. The first series was always going be unfairly viewed and compared to the BBC original, but at the same time should have provided a valuable learning experience to the hosts and everyone who creates the show behind the camera. The good news is, they've been paying attention. Here's a few things I feel have now elevated the program from 'car show', to suitable family viewing:
- The show has become more American, or rather, more suitable for American television. I'm not talking about all the Pick-up and 4x4 segments either. The show is now faster, punchier; it delivers straight away, much like a Hollywood film. The studio segments have been narrowed and shortened also, there is less filler/padding. This allows new viewers to hold and maintain a constant level of interest.
- The hosts. Even if Series 1 served no other purpose than to demonstrate each presenters mannerisms and idiosyncrasies, it's done the job fine. The producers did not fall into the trap of TG Australia and play musical chairs with the lineup. As a result, they've ended up with 3 presenters who now gel together very well in any situation. I even like Adam now...
- It has also shed the burden of using the 'Top Gear' name, something once again TG Australia has not yet managed. Although the new TG US intro is fairly generic, people don't need to be reminded they're watching Top Gear by hearing 'Jessica' play. The new intro is perfect; short and to the point, and more importantly not living in TG UK's shadow but standing on its own two feet. For that, big thumbs up.
There's plenty else to like, but I'll leave that for others to discuss. My only slight reservation at this point is that while they've made some very entertaining films, I feel there is still a question mark around their ability to make a serious/dramatic Clarkson type review of something. While this isn't entirely necessary, it may limit the show's absolute potential in the long term. Early days though.
Obviously lots will disagree with my opinion, so feel free to share your own below.
On the back of Episode 4, I think there's a lot to like about the latest run of Top Gear USA. The first series was always going be unfairly viewed and compared to the BBC original, but at the same time should have provided a valuable learning experience to the hosts and everyone who creates the show behind the camera. The good news is, they've been paying attention. Here's a few things I feel have now elevated the program from 'car show', to suitable family viewing:
- The show has become more American, or rather, more suitable for American television. I'm not talking about all the Pick-up and 4x4 segments either. The show is now faster, punchier; it delivers straight away, much like a Hollywood film. The studio segments have been narrowed and shortened also, there is less filler/padding. This allows new viewers to hold and maintain a constant level of interest.
- The hosts. Even if Series 1 served no other purpose than to demonstrate each presenters mannerisms and idiosyncrasies, it's done the job fine. The producers did not fall into the trap of TG Australia and play musical chairs with the lineup. As a result, they've ended up with 3 presenters who now gel together very well in any situation. I even like Adam now...
- It has also shed the burden of using the 'Top Gear' name, something once again TG Australia has not yet managed. Although the new TG US intro is fairly generic, people don't need to be reminded they're watching Top Gear by hearing 'Jessica' play. The new intro is perfect; short and to the point, and more importantly not living in TG UK's shadow but standing on its own two feet. For that, big thumbs up.
There's plenty else to like, but I'll leave that for others to discuss. My only slight reservation at this point is that while they've made some very entertaining films, I feel there is still a question mark around their ability to make a serious/dramatic Clarkson type review of something. While this isn't entirely necessary, it may limit the show's absolute potential in the long term. Early days though.
Obviously lots will disagree with my opinion, so feel free to share your own below.