Top Gear 19 DVD Review
“Top Gear” is the same as it ever was in “Top Gear 19.”
In the 7 episode 19th season of “Top Gear,” Jeremy, James, and Richard return to the same old routine that has made their show an international success. So, what can fans expect from this season? Let me break it down for you:
What cars are reviewed? The Pagani Huayra, a Bentley Continental GT, the Toyota GT86, the Subaru BRZ, the Renault Megane Renault Sport Cup, a Ford Focus ST, the Vauxhall Astra VXR, the new Kia Cee’d, the Mastretta MXT, the latest Range Rover.
What are some of the news items that are discussed? The Chevrolet Stingray, the Jaguar F-Type, the Ford Mustang, the Maserati Quattroporte and the new Volkswagen vehicles.
Which celebs take part in a race? Damian Lewis, Mick Fleetwood, Amy Macdonald, Lewis Hamilton, and James McAvoy.
What challenges appear in these episodes? A task to build a small car, a west coast trip, a race from Wembley Stadium to San Siro stadium, a car rugby game, an attempt to design a car for the elderly, and a 2 part Africa special where the trio race to find the source of the River Nile.
Whether you like it or not, “Top Gear” has established a formula throughout its 19 season run and, for the most part, the cast and crew stick to it. “Top Gear 19” offers very few surprises and, in fact, is rather bland compared to past seasons. Part of the problem stems from the fact that the first 5 episodes are heavy on car reviews. As a non-car fan, I have always found the reviews to be the least interesting part of the show as they feel more like magazine pieces than an actual segment.
Thankfully, episodes 4, 6, and 7 offer up some challenges that justify watching this season. In episode 4, we are treated to the bizarre spectacle of car rugby. Yes, it’s as strange as it sounds, but it’s pretty epic to see on screen. Episodes 6 and 7, however, are far and away the highlights of the season as we see the trio of hosts venture around Africa. Whether the gang is turning their cars into homes or coming across natural obstacles, there is no shortage of adventure and humor here. Personally, I always find the specials to be some of the series best episodes as we see these three embarking on an exotic adventure that most people will never experience in their lifetime. At any rate, it certainly beats watching chats and or reviews in a studio set.
Video/Audio:
Presented in widescreen, “Top Gear” looks sharper than it ever has. Whether the action takes place in the Nevada desert or in the studio set, this is one glossy looking show. My only complaint? The lack of a hi-def release. Why did BBC stop releasing new “Top Gear” sets on Blu-ray?
The Dolby Digital Stereo track handles everything from the trio’s bickering to the roar of the car engines expertly. Again though, this would all sound better via a hi-def audio track.
Sorry to disappoint you “Top Gear” fans, but the only extras here are trailers for “Doctor Who” Series 7 Part 2, “Top of the Lake,” and “Orphan Black.” Considering how the past several “Top Gear” sets that I reviewed had a good chunk of extras, it is strange to see none.
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