Watch Is it good?

After watching the first season of Netflix's Is it good?, it's safe to say that the show is an intriguing addition to the streaming service's collection of original content. In this reality series, everyday people - ranging from painters, chefs, and musicians to athletes, activists, and more - invite the public to evaluate their talents and determine whether or not they are, indeed, "good" at what they do.

Hosted by the affable and charismatic comedian Michelle Buteau, each episode features three contestants who perform their craft in front of a panel of judges and a live audience. Buteau brings her signature humor and wit to the show, keeping the energy high and the mood light as she introduces the contestants and engages in banter with the panelists. Speaking of the judges, Is it good? has a rotating lineup of experts in various fields, including comedian Judah Friedlander, musician Lizzy Plapinger, and food critic Alison Roman, among others. Each judge brings a unique perspective and plenty of insight to the table, making the process of evaluating the contestants both entertaining and informative.

But the heart of the show, of course, is the contestants themselves. From the start, it's clear that Is it good? isn't interested in finding the most polished or accomplished performers in each category; rather, the show aims to showcase a wide variety of skills and talents, from the impressive to the quirky to the downright bizarre. This leads to some truly fascinating moments, as viewers get to see people doing things they may never have even considered possible - like the "finger tutting" routine of one contestant, or the flower-arranging skills of another. Some of the performances are undeniably impressive, while others are more about the personality and presence of the performer than the actual talent on display.

One thing that sets Is it good? apart from other reality competition shows is its focus on community and collaboration. Rather than pitting contestants against each other in a cutthroat battle for supremacy, the show encourages them to share their skills and knowledge with one another, often leading to touching moments of camaraderie and support. This is especially evident in the show's "skill swap" segments, where the contestants are paired up and challenged to teach each other their respective crafts. These moments not only provide some of the show's most heartwarming scenes, but also serve to illustrate the importance of creativity and collaboration in all areas of life.

Of course, not every aspect of Is it good? is a home run. Some of the segments and challenges feel a bit forced or unnecessary - like the "speed round" in which contestants have to do their routines as quickly as possible - and others can drag on for too long, making certain episodes feel a bit unevenly paced. Additionally, while the rotating panel of judges helps keep things fresh, some of the judges themselves can come across as a bit too snarky or dismissive at times, which can detract from the overall positivity and lightheartedness of the show.

Overall, though, Is it good? is a fun, engaging, and often surprising show that showcases a wide range of talents and creative passions. With its emphasis on community and collaboration, and the infectious energy of Buteau and the contestants, it's the perfect escapist entertainment for these uncertain times.