Watch Top Gear: Cars of the People
- 2014
- 2 Seasons
Top Gear: Cars of the People is an automotive documentary series from BBC America that explores how cars have shaped human history and society. The show is hosted by the popular British television presenter and journalist, James May. Through the course of the series, May sets out to explore the stories of ordinary cars that have changed the world. He journeys through different time periods, from the post-war boom of the 1950s to the rise of the car culture in the 1960s and 70s. He also sets foot in different parts of the globe, from Germany and Italy to the United States and Japan.
What makes this show stand out is its focus on the role of cars in shaping human society. May does not just discuss the technical specifications of cars, he also delves into the cultural, social, and political aspects of car ownership. For example, one episode explores how the Volkswagen Beetle helped shape the identity of post-WWII Germany. Another episode delves into the rise of muscle cars in America and the role they played in shaping the 1960s counterculture.
May's approach to storytelling is engaging and informative. He is an expert in his field and has a natural talent for explaining technical details in simple terms. He is also a captivating storyteller who uses humor and irony to make his points.
The show is visually stunning, with gorgeous shots of classic cars on winding roads and in beautiful landscapes. There is also a strong educational component, with May visiting car museums and factories and interviewing experts in the automotive field. The show is equally entertaining for car enthusiasts and casual viewers with an interest in history and society.
Each episode of Top Gear: Cars of the People has a central theme, such as "City Cars," "Family Cars," or "Sports Cars." Within each episode, May explores different cars that have embodied that theme. There are many surprises along the way, as May uncovers the hidden stories behind some of the most celebrated cars in history.
Another aspect that makes Top Gear: Cars of the People unique is May's focus on everyday cars. Too often, car shows focus on exotic and luxury cars that are out of reach for most people. This show brings the focus back to the cars that most of us drive and that have had a real impact on our lives.
For those who are familiar with May's work on Top Gear or The Grand Tour, this show offers a fresh perspective on his talents as a presenter and car enthusiast. It is a departure from the more over-the-top stunts and challenges of those shows, instead offering a more thoughtful and introspective look at the cars that have shaped our lives.
In conclusion, Top Gear: Cars of the People is a thoroughly enjoyable and informative series for anyone with an interest in cars, history, or society. With James May as your guide, you will embark on a journey through the fascinating world of people's cars and discover the incredible stories behind some of the most important objects in human history.
