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Reviews
The Great British Bake Off (2010)
A Delight to invite into my home each week
__As an American watching this British Baking Show, I am relieved at the pace and concept as compared to American "Food" shows -- America has turned most of their food shows into a contest, showing only those cooks and bakers that demonstrate the zeal of capitalism in their quest for the top prize (almost always money) -- Thanks Bees that this British production includes the backgrounds of each contestant -- Another highlight is each episode features at least one "historically" significant tour near or at the area of the baking TENT. – Through these vignettes I have learned a great deal about the origins and purpose of many baked goods -- Even though Mr. Hollywood seems a gruff judge, he is much more humane than many of our "American" Chefs who dominate the U.S. shows – Judge Mary is such a delight, and I would have never known her impact on British Home Baking if I had not seen this show !!! The helpful comments of each of these judges is reason alone to cherish this show -- That both Mary and Mr. Hollywood also prepare the featured contest baked goods is a worthy part of the show -- The two hosts of the show use their comedic talents in a useful way to help the contestants keep focus during the challenges -- A pleasure always to tune into "The Great British Bakeoff".
Peaky Blinders (2013)
As good as I had hoped for
As a fan of Cillian Murphy, I watched the 1st episode in great anticipation of his role -- To my surprise, Sam Neill's role is the most captivating of the cast -- While Mr. Murphy plays the strong silent type, it is something we have seen him play before – Regarding the role of C.I. Campbell, the writer's of Peaky Blinders will probably get awards -- Mr. Neill lights up the screen with his superb demonstration of dialog well-written -- I simply do not see Sam Neill but the character, C.I. Campbell -- One small criticism -- the one flaw the British t.v. shows/writers fall victim to is the need to "tip" the plot ahead for the viewers -- Just when I gladly welcomed the fresh writing of "Sherlock" and "Downton Abby" and their use of unabashed surprise to keep us watching, the writers of Peaky Blinders revert to the tried and true very "British" way of keeping viewers tuned in -- talk about spoilers to a story line ! I will continue to watch "Peaky B", and welcome these characters in my home.