The kind of reality shows that I enjoy show some part of the creative process (Project Runway, Top Chef, Sheer Genius, Work of Art, Top Design). I haven't been much of a fan of most makeover shows except early seasons of Trading Spaces but I had high hopes for this show, even though the stars are from Extreme Makeover (a heavy handed makeover show).
As other reviewers have stated, it can be hard to watch the Tanya and Tracy bubble with enthusiasm as they pick through junk and talk about their designs in front of bemused old men...it grates on my nerves to hear them chirp away. The artificiality of their "budget" makes me laugh as they hem and haw about what they can afford. Of course they can spend another $50, but this is part of the show, just like on American Pickers. Sure they are wearing boots, sometimes gloves and hardhats, but they are all glammed up and sometimes wearing short shorts. I don't begrudge them for wanting to look good, it's just too much of a contrast with the people they are interacting with...."Hey we're from glamorous L.A. and we'd like to buy your junk".
The furniture and lighting they design is interesting and I appreciate the transformation from industrial junk to cool furniture. Their handyman Allen does a great job, so why not show more about how Allen makes these item? Most of us don't have access to his tools, but it would be inspiring for the viewers to be able to see junk in a new light and come up with their own ideas. Or to see how these pieces fit in the homes of the people who buy them. If only the show was 60%-70% about the creations and less about the picking, I think it would be more appealing to the public.
I record the show and fast forward through most of the chatter, and a large amount of the time spent picking to get to the end when I can see what was made from the junk. That's my suggestion for getting the most value from the show, without wasting your time. For those who like junk, Canadian Pickers is even better than American Pickers and I heartily recommend it.
