Technically / visually it's almost its equal (photography / camerawork are still spectacular), and in terms of character it's more intimate and introspective. But it's also much slower-paced: if Bear alone faced, say, 10 challenges per episode, with a celebrity guest they face, say, 4. There is also one more problem: too much rappelling. It's thrilling to watch the first few times, but when every single episode has it (though I have missed a couple), it gets very repetitive. My favorite episode is probably the one with Vanessa Hudgens - she is extremely likable, and the "screen running" at the end makes for an exciting change-of-pace. Oustanding later episodes include those with the super-fit Keri Russell and Brie Larson. But the show seems to be heading in the wrong direction mid-season 5 (Bautista? Channing Tatum (again)? A professional rock climber???). For this concept at its freshest, see the "Man Vs. Wild" specials "Fan Vs. Wild" and the one with Jake Gyllenhaal. *** out of 4.
Review of Running Wild with Bear Grylls
