The sensationalist approach is low hanging fruit. While this may be the easiest way to get attention, it’s also the quickest way to be forgotten. A lasting impression requires something unique and uncommon, such as the episode of the mega-popular UK dating show First Dates which depicts the interaction of a man and woman decidedly atypical from any seen before. Episode thirteen of First Dates seventh season marked a momentous point in dating shows.
Presenting this story with the necessary reverence was heavily reliant on editor Radek Sienski who, with his work on this episode and series, reinforced his respect throughout the industry as one of the most talented professionals of his generation. Further proof is seen in the BAFTA nomination First Dates received for this season; episode thirteen was the one that the British Academy of Film and Television Arts chose for the reception of such recognition. This notable television dating program displays a spectrum of amorous hopefuls, telling all of their stories requires the ability to comprehend and communicate what is special about each one.
No single episode defines the modern direction of First Dates better than Season 7 episode 13 which featured Annie and Barry. This couple stunned fans of the show and squelched any notion that this production was simply a superficial dating program. Both of these participants presented outstanding character but Annie in particular. Told by her doctors that bone cancer would take her life within two years, the thirty-three-year-old would not be dissuaded from living that time to the fullest, which included searching for love. Telling the story of this couple’s initial meeting demanded respect and gentle guidance from Radek.
He relates, “The format of the show is such that usually we try to have viewers know as much as both contributors at each given time. This time around I suggested a different approach – to put a bit of Annie’s interview talking about her illness early on, before she opens up to Barry. This way, we really understand her more, but also it’s absolutely heartbreaking to have Barry telling his friend in the toilet ‘she’s lovely, great personality, smoking hot, the whole package’ intercut with Annie sitting at the table alone trying to figure out how to tell him.”
“Without understanding her position, the scene wouldn’t have the same impact. Then when she tries to hint to Barry that she has not long to live, it’s extremely impactful and real. Once he realizes, we see how truly wonderful a human being he is as he fully embraces it and admires her positivity.”
Contrasting strongly with the typical sensationalist headline approach to attract audiences, Radek fought to not reveal Annie’s situation until viewers (and Barry) got to know her first as a human rather than seeing her as the disease which would take her life. Viewers bonded strongly to Annie and this dignified storytelling approach.
With Annie and Barry, or any of the participants of First Dates for that matter, one of the greatest challenges is to pave a path for the audience to feel like they know these couples within the brief 8-10 minute segments the show allows. Whether it’s Emma and Peter (episode 1 of season 8) who already knew each other when they showed up for the date or the awkward interaction of Susie and Martin (Season 8 Ep 3), the implied third member of the dating party is always the audience. Engaging the viewer is the responsibility of Mr. Sienski who is intuitively making that introduction.
The editor divulges, “Whenever I struggle to come up with a way of shaping a story, I always go back to who these people are. It’s about them at the end of the day and what qualities they represent that gives us keys to their worlds and stories.” First Dates is certainly entertaining but what Radek so powerfully brings to these stories is depth and humanity. Recognitions such as the show’s BAFTA Nomination (2017)/BAFTA Win (2016) for “Best Reality and Constructed Factual” and Broadcast Press Guild Award Nomination (2016) cement that this show stands as one of the finest in the genre.
Writer: Coleman Haan