Rise of the Clans

Spotted this on PBS and gave the first episode a try.

Too gimmicky with Neil skulking in the background of the "live" action bits.

He's much better than this, stopped watching as it grew irritating. Deleted the other 2 episodes.

The topic was of interest as I know very little of the history between England and Scotland but his presenting style was very childish in its format.

I also gave Blood of the Clans a try but he was just the same. So this was also deleted.

Sorry, Neil. I usually like your style and programs but this seemed to be for very young viewers and possibly a school project.

I really don't know why this programme was called Rise of the Clans. It should have been called the Neil Oliver Show. Lots of close ups of his "witty" remarks and tossing his hair. He starts off by saying Robert the Bruce was a coward and didn't want to fight at Bannockburn. When I watch a documentary I expect to see and hear facts. This programme was short on both.

Much, much better was the History Channel's programme Battle of Kings: Bannockburn.

Personally I feel I wasted an hour of my valuable time on this dreadful programme and I won't bother watching the rest. It's a pity as a while back there was a brilliant programme about the Battle of Bannockburn from a military point of view. I thought it was made by the BBC but on reflection I think it might have been another History Channel production.

Don't waste your time watching. Find something more productive to do.

This is yet another gem from BBC Scotland and Neil Oliver. This and his History of Scotland series are two of the best you could ever wish for.

First of all, I love how the story is being told. I love how the narrator is embedded in the re-enactment. It makes it feel as through the story is being told from by a first-hand witness of the entire historical events... making it seem more immersive.

Secondly, I love the fact that it's faithful to the true story, which makes it educative enough for anyone who did not, before now, know the history of the First War for Scottish Independence... and about King Robert Bruce.

Great show about Scottish history. Still a little bit unsure why it is called rise of the clans since there are already clans in the first episode. But besides that I really loved it, it is a great way for people to learn about the rich Scottish history. Really hope there will be a second season which will include the Jacobite rebellions.