Most of the time this World Cup, I’ve been glued to the live coverage. However, every now and again I feel like watching some highlights. Luckily, the BBC have a handy “World Cup Catch-Up” program. Well it would be lucky, if it wasn’t for the fact that it’s completely unwatchable.
The ultimate in style over substance, it looks like it was put together by a work experience kid, who wishes they were helping out at MTV. A mass of dizzying, strobe-effect graphics and shuddering music, it moves from item to item like a teenager with a short attention span, on the remote.
The “highlights” are the worst part. Shot from “funky” camera angles, which look artistic but don’t allow you to actually see what’s going on, there are far too many shots of fans’ expressions and not enough actual football, all set to a thumping dance beat. Some action is speeded up, some slowed down, all for no apparent reason. The whole experience is frankly disorienting.
The NFL highlights show on Channel 4 first introduced me to this style of broadcasting. There is much to learn from US sports coverage – especially when it comes to commentary – but please not this.
If you really want to put yourself through it, click here for an example. I challenge you to try to watch the France – Germany highlights (about 4 minutes in).
Discuss it with me on Twitter: @ABPSpurs
Do you like the BBC World Cup highlights program? Maybe Match of the Day should move to this style next year? Please let us know your opinion in the comments section below.
Anything But Penalties 