Brilliant!

I generally hate reality TV. I just find it so contrived. Now I admit to watching 3 reality TV shows; Survivor as the grandpapy of reality tv and a study in human nature and group dynamics, Amazing Race for the scenery and American Idol to admire the raw talent of the young singers often in awe and envy (I can't sing to save my life unfortunately).

This evening I added a fourth show.

I've just spent two hours watching the premiere of Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution on ABC where he takes on the American diet in homes and in schools, starting in Huntington, West Virginia.

This was riveting TV watching public school kids choose and eat processed food over Jamie's whole food creations. Most heartbreaking was watching the Edwards family caught in the fried and processed food trap leading to serious weight issues and potential health problems for them and their eldest son Justin in particular.

But there were glimmers of hope as Justin Edwards learns what good food is and how to cook it himself under Jamie's wing. Good on ya, Justin! One of the teachers decides to teach her children what vegetables look like and the school principal rolls up his sleeves on Jamie's last day in the kitchen and teaches the kids how to use a knife to cut their food! Even the lunch ladies' armour seems to be developing some chinks by the end of the episode.

Just "brilliant" as Jamie would say.