The Values of Masterchef Australia
Fascination and passion for food
Over the last couple of weeks the 9th season of Masterchef Australia been on. Like always I’m more excited before than during, not because the show lacks quality but because I just don’t have enough time to tune in 5 nights out of 7. Unfortunately. But the excitement to watch at least a few episodes is persistent because its a reality tv show with great values.
Masterchef Australia is most likely the biggest cooking show in the world, and it is the standout show within the Masterchef franchise. The Aussie version’s success is related to its ability to combine competition with heart. Where the other franchises opted for the reality angle, Masterchef Australia added passion.
The judges of Masterchef Australia possess knowledge, skills and a gentle approach – they’re there to motivate and guide the contestants, not challenge and intimidate like seem to be custom, still, in the other franchises. Masterchef Australia is all about a shared fascination and passion for food between professionals and home cooks. It’s about making dreams come true. And here lies its tremendous charm. Possibly its an inherited trait from Australian culture, the passion to build new futures and not be stuck in the past. Everyone has a shot at success in Australia. Anyone can make it.
Surely the other franchises, and I can really only speak for the Swedish version, tries to add the charm to their shows but they never succeed. The judges of the Swedish version are putting on stern faces and speaking with serious voices. It’s all an act and steals the focus from the dreams the contestants hold to create a new life. Instead of fascination and passion, whether you are good enough or not, the focus become the competition and whether you will be allowed into the exclusive world of chefs. The audience is therefore asked to judge the cover of the book, is this contestant chef worthy material based on looks and the way they act. It is a reality tv show.
Really it comes down to two plain facts. Masterchef Sweden, and the other franchises, is entertainment. Masterchef Australia is a cooking show.
