The Who Was? Show promised to bring history to life in a fun and engaging way, but it left me feeling more frustrated than entertained. With a concept that seemed promising—mixing humor with historical facts—the execution fell flat, resulting in a series that is more confusing than educational.
First and foremost, the show's humor often misses the mark. The jokes are forced, juvenile, and at times, completely out of context with the historical figures they're supposed to represent. Instead of adding value, the comedy detracts from the educational aspect, leaving viewers with a shallow understanding of the featured personalities.
The pacing of the show is another major issue. The segments jump around so quickly that it’s hard to retain any information or form a connection with the historical figures. One minute, they’re discussing Shakespeare; the next, they’ve switched to Gandhi with barely a breath in between. This haphazard approach does a disservice to the viewer, especially younger audiences who might already struggle with the complexities of history.
Moreover, the portrayal of the historical figures is often reductive and stereotypical. Instead of providing a nuanced look at their lives and contributions, the show opts for exaggerated caricatures that fail to capture the essence of who these people really were. This not only oversimplifies history but can also perpetuate misconceptions.
The set design and production value, while colorful and energetic, feel more like a distraction than a deliberate choice to enhance the storytelling. The over-the-top costumes and props might appeal to a very young audience, but for anyone looking for substance, it’s all style with no substance.
In the end, the Who Was? Show feels like a missed opportunity. It could have been a clever, educational series that made history accessible and enjoyable. Instead, it’s a chaotic mess that sacrifices depth for cheap laughs. If you’re looking to learn about historical figures, you’re better off sticking with horrible histories or history of the world part 2 for more mature viewers.