The Big Flower Fight

The Big Flower Fight is a lively and colourful reality TV series produced by Netflix. Debuting in May 2020, the show successfully offers a refreshing take on the standard reality competition format, marrying together the worlds of horticultural finesse, architectural ingenuity, and the cutthroat thrill of competition.

The unique series revolves around a captivating contest featuring ten pairs of amateur gardeners, florists and artists from around the globe. The goal is to create exceptionally impressive gigantic floral sculptures, and the sketchpad is Mother Nature herself. The scale of these creations is immense and the designs must not only be visually spectacular, but must also be conceived and constructed with deep consideration for horticultural science.

The setting for the contest is a spectacularly picturesque countryside in South East England. Nestled amidst openly blooming valleys and sun-streaked meadows, is a magnificent ‘dome’ – a large, geodesic structure that serves as both the workshops and battlefield for the competitors. The environment almost rivals the charm of the show's uniquely international cast and their astonishingly expansive imaginations.

As can be expected, originality and innovation are central to competition and every episode sees contestants tackle a new theme. From creating enormous insects to designing a show-stopping, larger-than-life couture gown, the tasks are varied and daunting in equal measure. The competitors not only design and build these botanical masterpieces but also have to maintain them, keeping them healthy and blossoming throughout the period of competition.

The hosts, comedian Natasia Demetriou and comedian-actor Vic Reeves, add a vivacious and humorous flavor to the show, lightening up the tense competitive atmosphere with their charming banter and spontaneous quick-wit. Meanwhile, the judges’ panel comprises of award-winning florist Kristie Harper and esteemed botanical expert Simon Lycett, who critically appraise the contestants' creations from conceptual framework to its realisation. The winner of the contest not only receives the proud title of 'Best in Bloom’, but also gets an opportunity to display their winning creation at London's Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

The raison d'être of the show goes beyond just the competition itself. While undoubtedly the giant floral creations are impressive, they are not the only aspect that grabs the viewers’ attention. The Big Flower Fight injects humanity and boyhood in a manner rarely seen in reality TV. You get to learn about the different competitors' personal stories, their passions and the driving forces behind their desire to compete. The show delves into the contestants' personalities and interpersonal dynamics, revealing a heart-warming camaraderie amidst fierce rivalry.

The series further provides a subtle but continuous education in the values of sustainable and environmentally conscientious design. The contestants are encouraged to use biodegradable and compostable materials, focus on structural integrity to reduce waste and often incorporate recycling elements into their designs. This not only challenges their problem-solving skills but also raises awareness about the necessity of these elements in contemporary design and agriculture.

The Big Flower Fight also takes viewers along a sensory journey. It paints a delectable canvas with a riot of colours, an orchestra of natural textures and an explosion of unique forms and structures. It brings the world of flowers, plants, artistry and architecture to the viewers, opening up a new perspective and an enhanced appreciation of the interconnection between these realms.

Whether you are a devout nature lover, an inspired artist, a competitive junkie, or even just an eager spectator, The Big Flower Fight offers an engaging, high-stakes floral contest that is fresh and utterly captivating. Taking reality TV to new heights with a lofty blend of creativity, drama, and natural splendour, this Netflix series is a sheer spectacle that stimulates the senses, tickles the funny bone, and invigorably warms the heart. The Big Flower Fight is a testament to the magic that can unfold when nature, art, and human spirit come together in vibrant synchrony.