A scoop of Sin

Set in America,the land of obesity,this show travels to different cities and each episode features a challenge for host Adam Richman to consume a local speciality (usually ridiculously large) within a specified time.

Man vs Food
Discovery Travel & Living
SATURDAY at 8:30 pm
Rating: ***

Whats it about?Set in America,the land of obesity,this show travels to different cities and each episode features a challenge for host Adam Richman to consume a local speciality (usually ridiculously large) within a specified time. These range from an attempt at breaking the Guiness Record (a 190 pound burger) to trying to consume a curry so hot that the chef has to use a gas mask while preparing it. The premise of the show is to explore local cultures through the big food in that city; we cant help but feel it isnt so much about culture as it is food porn.

Whos in it?Host Adam Richman,a self-taught food expert,is brash,unashamed and clearly masochistic. Despite the obvious health hazards (think of this show as Jackass for food),Richman takes on each challenge enthusiastically and treats each episode like a sporting challenge,complete with a wrapping up speech that declares either man or food the winner. Each of these challenges are in local restaurants and Richman tries to learn about the culture and the particular dish by speaking with diners. In true American style,each attempt normally rouses the entire restaurant to rally behind him; some egg him on whereas some even try to taunt him during the challenge.

Whats hot?Once you leave your self-righteousness behind,the show can be vastly entertaining. To watch Richman consume things like a 42-inch pizza or a two kilo steak is fun just to see whether it is possible. Richmans enthusiasm and gusto towards each challenge is commendable you are often willing him on from your couch. And thankfully,the winner isnt always man but often enough to make you come back for more. There are some real funny moments too while attempting to eat The Four Horsemen Burger (a regular sized burger but with some of the worlds spiciest chillies,Richman takes the first bite,and his lips quiver as he breaks out into sweat,much like any comic character would,sans the smoke coming out of his ears.

Whats not?Well,the obvious flaw in the show is that it encourages stupid levels of gluttony. You can feel your arteries clog up even though Richman is the one eating all that food. Also,with some episodes,the multiple restaurants in each town just makes it an overdose of food. Most importantly,the show doesnt really impart much knowledge and most of the food consumed is regular food that happens to be super-sized.

Should you be watching it?The show isnt for the faint-hearted and obviously requires you to be curious about pushing the boundaries of stupidity,gluttony or both. It isnt deep or meaningful,but it does make for good television.

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entertainment