A delightful surprise that proves even the most unlikely formats can work with a little creativity and care, ‘Faking It’ is a must-watch for anyone looking for a fun and uplifting viewing experience.
The concept of ‘Faking It’ – a show where people from different walks of life switch jobs and experiences for a period of time, with the goal of learning new skills and gaining a deeper understanding of their counterparts’ lives – is nothing new. However, this reboot of the 2000s original has managed to update the format in a way that feels fresh and relevant.
Faking It is a Canadian television series that premiered in 2014.
The show revolves around the life of Zoe Hardwick, played by Vancouver-based actress Meaghan Martin.
Zoe is a small-town girl who pretends to be a high-society woman to impress her boyfriend and his wealthy family.
The show explores themes of identity, class, and relationships.
Faking It ran for two seasons, gaining a loyal fan base and critical acclaim for its witty dialogue and relatable characters.
In the first episode, Rex, a posh public schoolboy from London, attempts to pass himself off as a market trader in Bolton. Despite some initial awkwardness, Rex quickly adapts to his new surroundings and proves himself to be a quick learner. The show’s creators have done an excellent job of injecting humor and heart into the format, making it easy for viewers to become invested in Rex‘s journey.
One of the standout aspects of ‘Faking It’ is its ability to tackle complex social issues like class barriers and the echo chamber effect that’s prevalent in modern society. The show provides a unique opportunity for people from different backgrounds to come together and learn from each other, which feels especially timely given our current cultural landscape.
Class barriers refer to social and economic obstacles that prevent individuals from accessing resources, opportunities, and services based on their socioeconomic status.
These barriers can manifest in various forms, including limited access to education, healthcare, and employment.
According to a report by the World Bank, 736 million people worldwide live in extreme poverty, with limited access to basic needs like food, water, and shelter.
Class barriers also perpetuate social inequality, as those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often face structural disadvantages that hinder their ability to improve their socio-economic standing.
While some may argue that the format is too simplistic or easy-going, we would counter that it’s precisely this approach that allows ‘Faking It’ to succeed. In an era where high drama and conflict are often the hallmark of modern reality TV, it’s refreshing to see a show that prioritizes camaraderie and mutual respect.
Overall, ‘Faking It’ is a delightful surprise that proves even the most unlikely formats can work with a little creativity and care. With its talented cast, engaging storylines, and thought-provoking themes, this reboot has set itself up as a must-watch for anyone looking for a fun and uplifting viewing experience.
The Art of Accents
In one memorable scene, Rex struggles to adopt the Bolton accent, and his attempts at compering a pub quiz are met with some hilarious results. The show’s writers have done an excellent job of capturing the nuances of different regional accents, making it easy for viewers from outside Bolton (or indeed the UK) to follow along.
A Modern Take on Class
One of the things that sets ‘Faking It’ apart from other reality TV shows is its thought-provoking exploration of class barriers. In an era where social media can create a false sense of community, it’s refreshing to see a show that highlights the importance of genuine human connection.
By bringing together people from different backgrounds and giving them the opportunity to learn from each other, ‘Faking It’ provides a unique platform for exploring these complex issues in a fun and engaging way. Whether you’re a fan of reality TV or just looking for a light-hearted viewing experience, this show is sure to delight.
- theguardian.com | Faking It review – finally! A TV reboot that is a genuinely great idea
