Joe Lycett's United States of Birmingham

Joe and his team clearly researched this project, it's very likeable and refreshingly non political. One thing you often feel with British media types touring middle America is a sort of smug distaste, Joe however manages to interview his subjects with genuine respect. Very enjoyable watching. Repeating for word count:

Joe and his team clearly researched this project, it's very likeable and refreshingly non political. One thing you often feel with British media types touring middle America is a sort of smug distaste, Joe however manages to interview his subjects with genuine respect. Very enjoyable watching.

I don't think even Joe expected this expedition to be quite as successful, quite as uplifting or quite as meaningful as it was. His adventure through the many villages, towns and cities of Birmingham (emphasis on the 'ham') starts off as a good excuse for a TV show, and a chance to poke fun at some small town oddballs. However, it very quickly becomes an opportunity to experience the little things that give each community their own unique identity, and to celebrate the differences and similarities between each one, while having a good laugh along the way. A shout out must also go to the wonderful Randy, driver extraordinaire, whose wit and humour is given more air time in later episodes. Here's hoping he and Joe set off on another adventure soon.