Conviction Kitchen - A Review

Conviction Kitchen, currently airing 8.30pm on Mondays on Channel 7 in Melbourne, is being marketed by 7 as ground breaking and inspirational yet is it just another reality cooking show? The show offers 12 "convicted criminals" the opportunity to work for six weeks under the guidance of renowned chef Ian Curley at the "Conviction" restaurant in Brisbane.   In the first episode a number of trainees are put through their paces in order to secure a position as one of the select 12. Sensitively we are provided an insight into their troubled past and what they want to achieve in the future. These are people who have committed a variety of offences ranging from dangerous driving through to armed robbery and burglary and whom have all been incarcerated. From the very beginning it is evident that these are real people, not those seeking fame and fortune as with other similar shows, but seeking the opportunity to change. Where the sensitivity disappears is in the initial elimination process where seemingly those not chosen to progress are "put out on the street". These unlucky few have outlined their personal failings to the Australian public with the expectation of assistance only to have that dream dashed. While it may make viewable TV I only hope that the producers of the show have done the right thing by the unsuccessful few. Aside from this, Conviction Kitchen, is very watchable and has the right ingredients (excuse the pun) including diverse and strong characters which the viewer will keen to learn more about, food, food and more food so I am sure that over the next few weeks that Conviction Kitchen will develop a strong following. For further information: Official Website