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James will travel 4,000 miles around the USA, and he will immerse himself in the real American way of life to discover its true flavor.
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast: James May
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Shows Most Like James May: Our Man in the USA (2022)
Man Labs (2022)
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Main Cast: James May
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1 season, 1 episode
James May: Oh Cook! (2020)
7.5 / 10 (based on 1882 reviews)
Cooking show hosted by James May, providing a unique perspective on kitchen creations for those who don’t know how to cook.
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast: James May, Nikki Morgan
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1 season, 7 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
It’s Clarkson on TV (2021)
7 / 10 (based on 122 reviews)
A new show hosted by the English broadcaster Jeremy Clarkson, best known for the car shows Top Gear and The Grand Tour, where he reviews and offers commentary on an amusing compilation of this year’s TV bits.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Jeremy Clarkson, Stage West
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1 season, 4 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
James May: The Reassembler (2016)
8.3 / 10 (based on 689 reviews)
James May reassembles miscellaneous objects which have been stripped down to their constituent parts, gaining an insight into their intricacies and the way in which they were designed and built.
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast: James May
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2 seasons, 7 episodes, 30.0-minute runtime
Richard Hammond’s Brain Reaction (2022)
6.1 / 10 (based on 39 reviews)
Assisted by comedian and science geek Ria Lina, Richard Hammond presents this science-themed comedy panel show. The teams, captained by Victoria Coren Mitchell and Johnny Vegas, answer questions pitting arbitrary things against each other.
Genre: Comedy, Game-Show
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1 season, 6 episodes
Crazy Contraptions (2022)
7.3 / 10 (based on 76 reviews)
Engineering enthusiasts battle to create the most ingenious contraption using everyday objects. Teams are challenged to fabricate and demonstrate a new chain reaction machine before being judged on their ingenuity, design, and workmanship.
Genre: Game-Show
Main Cast: Richard Hammond, Zach Umperovitch, Shini Somara, Nick Young
Creators: Michael Hyland
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1 season, 7 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
The Grand Tour (2016)
8.7 / 10 (based on 77624 reviews)
Follow Jeremy, Richard, and James, as they embark on an adventure across the globe, driving new and exciting automobiles from manufacturers all over the world.
Genre: Comedy, Talk-Show
Main Cast: Jeremy Clarkson, James May, Richard Hammond, Abbie Eaton
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4 seasons, 42 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Richard Hammond’s Workshop (2021)
8.2 / 10 (based on 805 reviews)
Richard Hammond starts a prestige classic car restoration and repair business near his hometown in Herefordshire.
Genre: Documentary
Main Cast: Richard Hammond, Neil Greenhouse, Anthony Greenhouse, Mindy Hammond
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1 season, 6 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
James May, known for his role in the iconic motoring show, Top Gear, and later The Grand Tour with Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond, has embarked on yet another adventure. This time, he’s exploring the vast and varied landscapes of the United States in “James May: Our Man in the USA.” The series, which debuted in 2022, offers a fresh perspective on the American way of life, seen through the eyes of a British presenter known for his wit, curiosity, and sometimes, his bewilderment at foreign customs.
What’s It All About?
At its core, “James May: Our Man in the USA” is a travel documentary. But it’s not your typical travel show. Instead of focusing solely on tourist hotspots or natural wonders, May delves into the culture, history, and idiosyncrasies of the United States. He traverses the country, from the bustling streets of New York City to the serene landscapes of the Midwest, and down to the sunny coasts of California. Each episode focuses on a different aspect of American life, be it food, transportation, leisure, or the great outdoors.
The Charm of James May
One of the show’s biggest draws is James May himself. His approach to exploring the USA is markedly different from what you might expect. May doesn’t pretend to be an expert on America; instead, he approaches his journey with a mix of curiosity and a bit of British skepticism. This perspective is refreshing and provides a unique take on the familiar. May’s interactions with the locals, his attempts to understand American sports, and his genuine astonishment at the size of everything in the US are both enlightening and entertaining.
Standout Moments
Throughout the series, several moments stand out, highlighting the cultural exchange and the often humorous clash of British and American sensibilities. For example, May’s attempt to tackle American football—with its complex rules and physicality—provides not only comedy but also insight into the sport’s significance in American culture. Another memorable episode has him exploring the American culinary scene, from high-end New York City restaurants to traditional Southern barbecue joints, showcasing the diversity and richness of American cuisine.
Beyond Stereotypes
What sets “James May: Our Man in the USA” apart from other travel shows is its effort to go beyond stereotypes. While it’s easy to fall into clichés when discussing American culture, May and the show’s producers make a conscious effort to present a more nuanced view. They explore not only the extravagance and excess often associated with the US but also the country’s natural beauty, its people’s warmth, and the complexity of its social and political landscape.
The Importance of Being Open-Minded
A recurring theme in the series is the importance of being open-minded. May’s journey is as much about discovering America as it is about challenging his own preconceptions. This message is particularly relevant in today’s world, where it’s easy to form opinions based on second-hand information or media portrayals. “James May: Our Man in the USA” encourages viewers to look beyond the surface and appreciate the diversity and complexity of other cultures.
The Visuals
No discussion of the show would be complete without mentioning its visuals. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the vastness of the American landscape in all its glory. From the neon lights of Las Vegas to the serene beauty of the Grand Canyon, the series provides a visual feast that complements May’s explorations. The attention to detail in presenting each location’s unique atmosphere adds an extra layer of immersion to the viewer’s experience.
Conclusion
“James May: Our Man in the USA” is more than just a travel documentary. It’s a journey of discovery, not only of the United States but also of the common ground that connects different cultures. James May, with his characteristic wit and curiosity, serves as the perfect guide, offering viewers a fresh perspective on a country that many think they already know. Whether you’re a fan of May from his previous shows, a travel enthusiast, or someone curious about American culture, this series offers something for everyone. It’s a reminder that, despite our differences, there’s much we can learn from each other if we approach the world with an open mind and a sense of humor.