Getting crafty is the name of the game in NBC’s ‘Making It’
In the new reality competition series “Making It,” NBC has crafted more than a simple reunion of “Parks and Recreation” stars Amy Poehlerand Nick Offerman.
The two delight in trading bad puns. And there are silly challenges such as Mr. Offerman — an expert woodworker when he isn’t doing TV, movies or stand-up comedy — trying to identify types of wood blocks by smell alone.
Their main objective, however, is to host eight very talented artsycraftsy types in a six-episode limited series that celebrates design, creativity and the joy of just making stuff. It debuted Tuesday night, and viewers might appreciate this light, bubbly summer treat.
“Life’s stressful enough; let’s make a show that makes you feel good,” Ms. Poehler says in the first episode. Next week’s show is at 10 p.m., following two hours of “America’s Got Talent.”
“Making It” is an hour that sticks to a tried-and-true reality format: Give the contestants a couple of challenges (in this case, a “Faster Craft” and a “Master Craft”). Let Ms. Poehler, who claims to have no artsy skills, and Mr. Offerman wander around chatting and joking with the artists. Finally, bring in judges Simon Doonan and Dayna Isom Johnson (the stateside version of classic “Great British Baking Show” experts Paul Hollywood and MaryBerry).
Even the early, small challenges might stump the average Etsy maven, but this group has skills. The master challenges are bigger, more complex. In one episode, each artist is to use family heirlooms as inspiration for a quilt of unusual materials, and a creative form of photo album to complement the quilt. In another episode, they will create a children’s playhouse with appropriate toys.
“Making It” works because its hosts seem to be having a blast and bring the artists along for the ride. When crafter Amber Kemp-Gerstel receives a deadpan comment from Mr. Offerman, she tells him
“I’m pretty sure you’re hiding your emotions in your beard.”
The judges are pretty funny as well. Mr. Doonan, who has a career of designing amazing windows for Barney’s in New York City, tells one designer that his creation is too stark for a challenge involving child’s play. But he still gives it high marks: “I love your austerity. I don’t care if it looks like something that came from East Germany in the ’70s.”
It’s a shame there doesn’t seem to be room in the NBC lineup for “Making It” at an earlier time slot. Kids might love it, and, as Ms. Poehler said, it’s easy for parents to be inspired by these crafty contestants.
Observing one’s use of swimming pool float “noodles” to make a big rainbow, she shook her head and said, “What I’m learning is that I’m actually learning. I’m thinking, ‘Maybe I could do that.’ These kinds of simple things do get you closer to the idea of actually making something.
“Which is really cool.”