You Can't Ask That

This show gives me hope for an increasing divisive world. Littered with insightful and genuine moments, answers lots questions that have passed through my mind while also shining a spotlight on my own preconceptions.

The title of the show says it all. Though some hard topics are covered such as suicide, every one of the participants openly shares and answers questions you may not have thought about but find yourself wanting the answer to.

Our society could do with a little more understanding of those around us which have been dealt a different hand. This show pushes a lot of barriers and really does hit hard at times.

The first episode I watched was about blind people. I raise Guide Dog pups, and spend a bit of time with blind people and I learned a lot from this episode.

The show tells you a lot about all kinds of people, including the people who ask the questions, and in some cases act very poorly towards others who are different.

Although the show is quite emotionally taxing, I highly recommend it. You may find some of the subjects very uncomfortable, but you'll learn something about what these various groups of people have to deal with in their daily lives, and how unbelievably brave they are to be a part of this documentary. It gives you a chance to walk a mile in other people's shoes.

So basically, things you want to know but were afraid to ask on account of being rude or inappropriate. Such a simple premise for a program but done so well it is always interesting.

The two things that always impress me about this show, and I've watched all seasons up to 2022 are: 1. The humanity of the interviewees. It's not always the case (there are definitely some angry individuals amongst them) but most people show an open mindedness and understanding towards the sort of people who might marginalise or persecute them which is so humbling. It always gives me faith that it's possible to break down barriers if only more of us could accept our differences.

2. The editing is AMAZING. The way the answers are spliced together makes the show so watchable. A real credit to the people who made this.

I have recommended this programme to people more than any other I can think of.

Hell, it's a unique life experience watching each episode. Let's face it - we've all looked at a minority and have had a question that's just too impolite to ask. Does a dwarf shop in the kids clothing section? Do prostitutes have a normal sex life outside work? What's it like for a soldier to witness a mate die in his arms? What's it like to live to be 100? How do you accept a diagnosis that you're terminally ill? Why do people with Down's Syndrome like to hug so much? The format is extremely simple. Sit the subject on a stool in front of a plain white background and hand them cards with the questions. They read the question and answer it. It then cuts to another person answering the same question - because different people have different responses. By the end of the episode you feel you know and understand each person, their struggles and successes. The white background means you concentrate on the person and their answers. There's no studio audience, no backing track and no interviewer - just the answers. Ordinary people with extraordinary courage answering the questions with frankness, honesty and humour. You'll never look at a minority the same way again.