Once again BBC Three has delivered a thought-provoking, relevant and accessible documentary. Journalist Leah Green, aided by comedians such as Josie Long and Nish Kumar, provide witty, yet bitterly true opinions and anecdotes on an issue which is depressingly prominent in our society. The programme names and shames the worst offenders, mocking notable individuals and notorious examples of sexism, and concludes with the panel choosing the ultimate and well deserving winner of the title Britain’s Biggest Sexists.
The programme explores just how rampant sexism can be in the virtual as well as literal world, tackling issues such as online abuse, discrimination in the workplace and university ‘lad’ culture. The tongue-in-cheek comedy does not make any effort to diminish the severity of the problem, only emphasising just how ridiculous the situation that women face every day is. The satirical comments accompany brutally honest and, in some cases, extremely disturbing real-life stories – such as a distressing account of a sexual assault by a rape victim. You cannot help but admire her bravery when openly discussing such a personal story.
Viral videos and street stunts accompany real women discussing their experiences of sexism, such as the staggering amount of women who lost their jobs because of pregnancy. Whilst watching with my flatmates, at least one girl could relate to every example.
The lack of acknowledgement of sexism against males was evident, but would it have been necessary, or indeed accurate, to give equal balance and refer to the ‘struggles’ males face in society? The documentary has provoked criticism on this issue but, ultimately, it would be impossible to find as many examples of male suppression in western society. This will become evident to every viewer after watching Britain’s Biggest Sexists.
Image: Jonathan McIntosh