Powerful TV

I finally got round to watching the first of BBC Three's Kill it, Cook it, Eat it programmes. This has to be the best television programme I've watched this year.

The aim of the series was to reconnect meat purchased at the supermarket with the animals from which it originates. In this programme the audience witnessed the slaughter and butchering of three cows. They could clearly view the process through large windows which looked into the slaughter house. The audience then saw the meat prepared by a butcher and cooked by a chef. Finally they were offered to sample the meat.

I found the programme to be extremely well produced and truly risk-taking. Although the act of slaughter was gruesome, bloody and shocking, the programme makers ensured the show remained informative and balanced. The slaughter-men were both clinical and professional. A representative from the Food Standards Agency provided a narrative and responded to the presenters questions. The various reactions of the audience were filmed; the joint experience provided an almost comforting parallel for those watching at home.

With BBC Three suffering from endless Little Britain repeats and aimless top-100 style shows, this programme stands out as an example of brave, powerful television.