The first episode was torture: introducing teams in a staggered, ridiculous fashion, judging based on I don't know what, special effects and "decor" painfully overdone (especially having contestants move locations to get judged, based on nothing).
I did NOT like it, but will give it one more chance and watch the second episode. I'll update this review afterwards. Right now, it's not looking good.
Have none of these producers/show runners ever seen GBBS or The Great Pottery Throwdown? Both those shows are to be emulated as they have winning formulas that engender loyalty and popularity.
But NOOOOO! Producers think we're too stupid, don't have attention spans that can focus (apparently we're all 3 year olds) and generally have no respect for anyone. The only thing that matters is the $$$ they're hoping for.
Update: I've watched 2 more episodes and I'm done. Rating can stay the same as it hasn't gotten worse, but it also hasn't gotten appreciably better.
The worst thing is the shallowness of the interactions between the hosts, judges and contestants. GBBS and The Great Pottery Throwdown have spoiled me. Too bad they can't all just relax and let their personalities come through. The Harry Potter theme is great, the food looks fine, the contestants skills are also fine, but that's not enough to hang a baking show on.
This is a FAIL for me.
