Man, it's such an awkward show.
First off, maybe it needs some music or live band (there's a reason why talk shows employ them). I do understand that calls for huge fees. Even the cooking is missing some sizzling, smokes... sounds and pizzazz to make live shows interesting.
Or maybe it can use some funny animation effects to liven things up. Or stage this in a private area in a real restaurant so that we can still see the buzz in the background. I understand that Netflix might want to minimize any unexpected incidents.
Never been so thankful for a relatively funny extra guest - Chris Ying - to show up midway to provide comedic relief with close-ups of mistakes and commentary.
And David Chang seems a bit nervous. It's the first attempt in pioneering something, I get it. But since the premise is already being casual and entertaining and not being worried about screwing things up, why not just... be more relaxed. He doesn't even have to take the guests' questions seriously (even though I know he has a reputation as a famous chef to keep). On top of that, to spell out how difficult it is to do something that's meant to be entertaining? Maybe get a sous chef? Or at least a buffoon archetype?
It's just so, so dry as it is. Even a decent mukbang featuring no one well-known is more watchable. Thankfully Steven Yeun and Rashida Jones are easygoing guests. Will things get better? Hope so.
