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"Springwatch"

Posted: Wed May 30, 2007 9:16 pm
by Primrose
I enjoy seeing the actual film shots but find Bill Oddie's inane commentaries a huge turn-off. These seem to get worse every year and I'm confused as to which age group this programme is aimed at. Is it adults or children because some of the chit-chat is increasingly banal and more appropriate to Blue Peter than adult viewing. When you consider the huge amount of time which has been invested behind the scenes setting up all the cameras and technology and seeking out the nest sites, I just wish the programme had a little more gravitas.

Posted: Thu May 31, 2007 10:29 am
by Angi
Oh its sad you're not enjoying it. I think its aimed at families, ie adults and children. So sorry you don't like Bill Oddie. I think he's quite sweet, like a dotty old uncle, and he does come up with some really good info. Mind you I was a great fan of the Goodies as a child, so I have a soft spot for him. I also think the footage of wildlife is fantastic, especially for townies like me.

Posted: Thu May 31, 2007 12:56 pm
by Primrose
Actually, despite my earlier comments I don't dislike Bill Oddie and think he's done a great deal in his various wildlife programmes to make the topic interesting for a wide cross section of the public. I just think he does rather go over the top sometimes when he makes me feel like I'm being treated like a five year old back in primary school.

Posted: Thu May 31, 2007 6:27 pm
by lizzie
Springwatch/Autumnwatch and Dr Who are the only shows we sit down and watch together as a family.

While Bill Oddie may interrupt Kate with every sentence she utters, she's been documented as saying that she loves and adores working with him and wouldn't have it any other way. His enthusiasm is contagious and his knowledge vast. I also like the his take on the world, a little left of centre but that's fine with me :lol:

I do have a soft spot for him, he needs looking after.

Posted: Thu May 31, 2007 7:21 pm
by fen not fen
I think sometimes Bill is being a bit sarcastic with it! But he seems to be getting on better with whatsername this year - last year I thought there was going to be a punch up some nights!

What annoys me about it is the sentimentality about dead baby birds and owlets scoffing their little brothers and sisters etc. It all seems a bit (prepare for big word) anthropomorphic. Oh and the constant teasing of what's on later or tomorrow to keep you watching. If they've got some great footage why don't they just show it!

Other than that a great programme. Especially when thingummybob in Islay couldn't get a picture of the corn crake with his huge crew and zillions of pounds worth of gear, and the farmer had filmed one on his lawn with a camcorder!

Sorry I can't remember names at all today.

Fred

Posted: Thu May 31, 2007 8:47 pm
by jopsy
lily and i have been watching the younger childrens springwatch she loves it
she was a bit sad about the owl-she said 'owl gone to sleep now mummy' bless her
i love bill
the other man irritates me even tho he really knows his stuff
id give it 9/10 def for a wide audience

Posted: Thu May 31, 2007 9:21 pm
by Cider Boys
Hello Primrose

I completely agree with your observations regarding Bill Oddie, I find his drivel most irritating and detracts from an otherwise interesting programme.

I didn’t like the Goodies either!

Barney

Posted: Fri Jun 01, 2007 8:04 am
by Johnboy
Hi Barney,
You grumpy old sod! That makes two of us!
JB.

Posted: Fri Jun 01, 2007 8:13 am
by Chantal
Neither do/did I. :roll: I even find him irritating on the Homebase adverts voiceover. :?

Posted: Fri Jun 01, 2007 9:50 am
by madasafish
Try watching and switching the sound off.
Much better imo.

(another old grumpy!)