'Making The Cut': Tim Gunn and Heidi Klum's fashion series has rules that set it apart from the rest
Amazon Prime's 'Making The Cut' is the real deal. It never prepares the 12 talented and skilled designers before pushing them into the challenging world of fashion. It's quick, fast-paced and doesn't waste time getting to the point. But, because it stresses the wearability factor of clothing so that it can be sold on the global e-commerce site, robs the designs of creativity.
A very natural and obvious comparison to make would be with Bravo's 'Project Runway' and in an effort to try and be different from it, the Amazon-backed competition series has new and improved rules, which work in their favor, albeit intermittently.
The designers get seamstresses so that their only focus can be on the design and the overall look of each of their garments. They spend more time being out on the streets, soaking up the vibe of the city they are in and absorbing the culture of it so that their works can be a perfect blend of their unique style and spirit of the city. Some have nailed it, others failed.
Also, there's no cap on the number of contestants taking the exit route at the end of each episode. Even though this allows for the show to not be stretched beyond a certain number of episodes, what it also does is not give the viewers a fair chance at rooting for a particular contestant. For anyone to build a fan base, it takes time, months in such cases. But with the rapid system of ousting contestants may not strike a chord with the audience.
However, what's refreshing is that designers will get an opportunity to convince the judges - Joseph Altuzarra, Nicole Richie, Naomi Campbell, and Carine Roitfeld - why they should get another shot at showcasing their designs. Well, when there are a million dollars involved, they'd want a second chance.
In 'Project Runway,' we had experienced, novice, still-learning, and self-taught designers. It was a different but interesting mix. In 'Making The Cut,' most are seasoned with decade-old stores, shows at international fashion weeks, and years of tailoring behind them. And that's how you know the stakes are high.
Tim Gunn and Heidi Klum are seamless in their roles as hosts and mentors. While Heidi will be with the judges sharing comments and feedback about the garments, Tim is more invested in the designers' day-to-day life.
'Making The Cut' will release on Amazon Prime on March 27, Friday.