The Big Brunch
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The Big Brunch
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Big Brunch is an eight-episode cooking competition that focuses on the beloved weekend meal. Almost any food can be served, but the "brunch" meal here always includes elaborate alcoholic beverages made for the three judges who chat and confer in a separate room from the kitchen. The contestants -- a mix of men, women, and nonbinary chefs who come from a variety of ethnic backgrounds -- are all passionate about their cooking and are supportive of each other. Sometimes the judges can get a little snarky, but none of it's particularly cutting. Though the show is great family viewing, there are no bleeped words, and "f--k" is used at least a couple times in each episode, usually for emphasis ("f--king amazing"). Expect to also hear "s--t," "ass," and other swear words sprinkled throughout.
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What's the Story?
THE BIG BRUNCH follows a standard cooking-competition format: 10 chefs from across the U.S. cook a starter and a main course around a theme, and one chef is eliminated each episode. Though the focus is nominally brunch, many of the dishes could be served at lunch or dinner as well. In keeping with the theme of a long, languorous weekend meal, the judges (Dan Levy from Schitt's Creek, food personality Sohla El-Waylly, and restaurateur Will Guidara) order alcoholic drinks from a mixologist in every episode. It's fun and there's a lot at stake: The grand prize is $300K to further the winner's culinary dreams.
Is It Any Good?
Though the focus on brunch may seem narrow at first, the range of dishes, the engaging chefs, and the skilled hosting from Dan Levy make this a hearty feast of a show. The contestants in The Big Brunch hail from across the U.S. and represent a range of perspectives, including the Black, Asian, and queer ones that have become more centered in recent food competition shows. Except for a few snarky comments from the judges, the show highlights the love and support among the contestants.
Sounds like a great family watch, right? Parents of younger kids may be surprised that the bleep-free audio sometimes features "f--k," "s--t," etc. The focus on colorful, fun alcoholic drinks at every brunch table may also be a red flag for some families. Otherwise, The Big Bruch is a relaxed, inspiring, satisfying binge.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the value of competition in cooking shows. Do you think it brings out the best in chefs? What kinds of chefs do you think thrive under these conditions?
Who were you rooting for? Why? What made that chef's cuisine unique and interesting? How did they do in the competition? Why did they succeed or not succeed?
TV Details
- Premiere date: November 10, 2022
- Cast: Daniel Levy
- Network: HBO Max
- Genre: Reality TV
- Topics: Cooking and Baking
- Character Strengths: Perseverance
- TV rating: TV-MA
- Last updated: December 1, 2022
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