He’s all Wright

Who’s in it? Ian Wright may have become one of the biggest names in lifestyle television,but he still retains much of the humour and wit that made him such an instant success. It doesn’t stop him from giving a rather gauche performance of a Bollywood dance,or baring his slightly podgy midriff too shoot a portfolio picture to use in Bollywood. He’s equally at ease with celebrities like Warsi and Lopez,as he is with his Dr Fish pedicurist in Singapore and the stuntmen on the sets of Golmaal 3.

What’s hot? It’s no use complaining that the Invite Mr Wright cannot match Globe Trekker in terms of the amount of research that goes into it. The format does not require such in-depth treatment. What really makes the show click is Wright himself. There’s nothing standoffish about him. He doesn’t shy away from immersing himself in any aspect of local culture,be it playing a bit part in a Bollywood film or attending a wedding. While he may joke around and play the fool,he manages to remain respectful of all foibles and quirks.

What’s not? There isn’t much to dislike about this place,however,there are certain minor quibbles. For instance,since when did Arshad Warsi become one of Bollywood’s biggest stars? And we’ve seen travel show hosts try out flamenco dancing in Madrid a number of times,so there’s nothing new. Also,while watching the show,one suspects that one is doing so in order to get more of the Inimitable Ian Wright,rather to know something more about a particular culture,because there just isn’t enough information that’s startling. That,in some ways,defeats the purpose of a travel show.

Should you be watching it? Ultimately,the most important lesson one can learn from Wright is how to be a gracious guest and how to accept culture shocks with humour. He seems to enjoy every experience he gets and that itself makes it a worthwhile show to watch.