National Geographic goes back to the basics in their hilarious new infotainment series Going Deep with David Rees.
Show
Going Deep with David Rees, which airs back-to-back episodes on Mondays at 10pm on National Geographic Channel.
Premise
David Rees demands nothing but the best in life and does not skimp on the basics. This series explores such topics as “How to Make and Ice Cube” and “How to Tie Your Shoes.”
Pedigree
Rees is probably best known for his web comic Get Your War On, though most recently he has been working as an artisanal pencil sharpener. This show seems like the logical next step. The show fits in with NatGeo’s other science-y shows, such as Showdown of the Unbeatables and Mind Games.
Who is Going Deep with David Rees For?
If you have ever screamed “Enough science! GIMME GIMME GIMME!” you will probably appreciate this show. This is also good for those of us who enjoy science without all of the pesky data collecting and lab work.
What Works
Rees really does dig deep in exploring the topic at hand. This isn’t a program where a panel of experts show up to demonstrate different techniques for 22 minutes—that would be beyond boring. Instead, Rees asks a fundamental question, such as “What is ice?” or “What is dirt?” and then builds on that knowledge while consulting with experts. However, Rees is enthusiastic, impatient, and a little self-centered, leading to some awesome interactions. Thankfully, the guests so far have been playing along. Each episode ends with a rundown of the proper technique to achieve maximum results.
What Doesn’t Work
Rees’ sense of humor and approach is not going to be for everyone. It doesn’t get as crass or aggressive as GYWO, but it is wittier than NatGeo’s standard fare.
Verdict
Although it was the second episode to air, start with How to Tie Your Shoes and then decide. Also, try the shoe-tying method suggested by Going Deep with David Rees—it works!
Took me most of an episode to figure out that his delivery style was reminding me of Billy Eichner, and like with ‘Billy On the Street’ I really like the moments where Rees breaks or goes meta. Will probably watch more.
Ooo, I could see a little Eichner, though not as extreme. Or panicky.