I've always been sceptical of reality T.V. shows, especially seeing as half of them seem to involve an island in some way or another. But when I randomly came across this through my channel hopping trying to find something decent, I was amazed after finishing the first episode.
Amazed firstly by the ingenuity of the concept, taking 6 contestants and pitting them against the various traditions of various cultures that test the athletes in various skills. This has largely played off quite well, with a traditional stick fight between Zulu warriors and the contestants my personal highlight, however there were a couple episodes in which it was apparent that it may not always be the case of tradition, but more of something they thought up of to do,or that hasn't always been practised as vigourously through the ages as was apparent in a hilltop marathon in Mexico, which ended rather disappointingly, but still proved a test of determination and stamina nonetheless.
secondly, what makes this show what it is, is the excellent choosing of contestant, 6 in all, 3 from the U.S. and 3 from the U.K. All chosen for different attributes. The most notable of these contestants is a professional Strongman called Brad, whose sheer size and determined mentality make him a strong contender in almost every physical challenge, and probably the most notable contender of the show, yet in this show it is easy for everyone to have different favourites. Another, Jason is a BMX racer whose is notable for the aggressiveness he brings to every challenge, Richard, an Oxford graduate, though lacking in size brings a typical Britishness with him of always giving it his best. Mark is a professional kick-boxer and Dancer from Birmingham and presents himself as the steady head of the show, always rearing to go into the next challenge with a tactic. Raijko is a spiritual mind guru, who believes in mind over body and Corey is liken to being Richards American counterpart as a Harvard graduate from Alaska.
All these contestants bring such a variety to the show that makes you eager to see how each one of them will perform and see how their own particular values of meeting the challenges being it mind over body, strong aggressiveness or just pure strength really make for an entertaining show. Making it one i've book-marked to watch each week.
Overall it is truly a show that the producers have thought about a lot, one which draws in the audience and keeps them hooked in on the show. And of course lets not forget Richard Hammond as the presenter, who out there can not love him.
