Promoted with a level of billboard bombardment more befitting a summer blockbuster, the Alpha Course has, if its evangelical backers are to be believed, converted millions of wavering cynics into devoted Christians. In the first of eight films explor
ing religion's impact on contemporary Britain, Jon Ronson shadows a gaggle of Alpha participants as they complete one eight-week course.
Ronson is a detached presence throughout, neither provoking the proselytisers nor mocking the agnostics. The end result is an arresting documentary which sheds light on the Alpha phenomenon and speaks volumes as to why the uncommitted might be swayed by it.
BEST SCIENCE
Inside Nature's GiantsChannel 4, Monday, 9pm
In a TV eco-system already teeming with natural history programmes, competitors need novel adaptations if they're to survive. This new series has a suitably astonishing hook; rather than merely observing its subjects it delves into their anatomical schematics.
This inaugural episode sees veterinary scientist Mark Evans exploring the inner workings of the elephant, first by presiding over the autopsy of a euthanised zoo specimen, then by watching their behaviour in the wild. While those of a squeamish disposition may find the dissection scenes distressing, visceral disassembly soon gives way to cerebral contemplation as Evans marvels at the beasts' fortitude and Richard Dawkins outlines the evolutionary forces which shaped these remarkable creatures.
Also try: The Sky At Night (BBC4, Thursday, 8.30pm). TV's longest running science programme readies us for the anniversary of the moon landings with a handy guide to our celestial neighbour.
BEST REALITY
Gerry's Big DecisionChannel 4, Thursday, 9pm
Modifying the Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares model for the commercial sphere, this new offering follows entrepreneur Sir Gerry Robinson as he applies his financial nous to ailing enterprises. This week he ponders the futures of two breweries, each burdened with recessionary woes. But with both ventures in dire need of assistance, choosing the worthiest recipient of his munificence proves daunting.
Also try: Ladette To Lady (STV, Tuesday, 9pm). This year's antipodean Eliza Doolittles try to woo a dashing Venetian Prince as the finishing school contest continues.
BEST IMPORT
Reaper E4, Thursday, 9pm
This comedy-drama about a Gen Y loser indentured to Satan seems tailor-made for a narrow geek subset. But thanks to sharp scripting and a brilliant supporting performance from veteran actor Ray Wise, it deserves to be seen by more than just the cult cognoscenti. Here, in this season's premiere, Sam returns from a road-trip to find himself homeless, unemployed and at loggerheads with his love interest. Thankfully Wise's splendidly malevolent Prince of Darkness has a new assignment to distract him from his earthly woes.
Also try: The Chaser's War On Everything (BBC4, Tuesday, 10pm). More japes from the Australian pranksters as they steal the identity of an identity theft expert and road-test a dangerous new fashion statement.
BEST TRAVEL
On Thin IceBBC2, today, 9pm
Drawing more than a little inspiration from Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman's travels, this new expedition partners adventurers James Cracknell and Ben Fogle with Trainspotting alumnus Jonny Lee Miller for a polar Endurance Race. Serving as a prologue to the trials ahead, this opening instalment follows the trio as they hone their sub-zero survival skills in the wilds of Norway.
Also try: The Best Job In The World (BBC1, Thursday, 9pm). Briton Ben Southall recounts how he won the island caretaker vacancy recently advertised by Queensland's Tourism Board.
The full article contains 587 words and appears in Scotland On Sunday newspaper.
