Netflix’s latest reality series, “Buying London”, inspired by the US hit “Selling Sunset”, has elicited polarized reactions from critics. While the show promises glamour and high-stakes property deals in some of London’s most exclusive neighbourhood’s, reviews have ranged from enthusiastic praise to scathing criticism.

India Block of the Evening Standard awarded the series four stars, asserting that the formula from Selling Sunset has successfully translated to a British context. Block highlights the show’s appeal in its focus on the personal lives and interpersonal drama of its cast, describing the series as engaging and entertaining. She appreciates how London serves as a stunning backdrop, adding visual allure to the series.

The Guardian’s Rebecca Nicholson was notably unimpressed, giving “Buying London” a zero-star review. She lambasted the show as “probably the most hateable TV show ever made,” criticizing it for being boring and infuriating, unlike its US counterpart. Nicholson found the series to be “tired, tone-deaf and shamefully crass,” suggesting that it fails to provide the enjoyable escapism that Selling Sunset offers.

The Telegraph’s Anita Singh also critiqued the series harshly, rating it two stars. She described it as “artificial, vulgar, post-truth TV,” pointing out the phony conversations and confected drama that give the show a superficial and soulless feel. Singh noted that the participants seem to mimic scripted reality shows, making the entire experience feel like an extended Instagram reel rather than authentic reality TV.

Carol Midgley of The Times echoed similar sentiments in her two-star review, finding the series both ghastly and captivating. She acknowledged the show’s crassness, especially during a time of economic difficulty, but conceded that its voyeuristic appeal would likely draw viewers. Midgley remarked that while the show is grotesque in its display of wealth, it has a magnetic pull that will keep audiences watching.

Netflix appears unfazed by the critical panning from some quarters, even embracing the negative reviews in their promotional strategy. The company highlighted the Guardian’s zero-star review, using it as a promotional tool on social media, demonstrating confidence in the show’s ability to attract viewers regardless of critical reception.

‘Buying London’ has sparked a debate on the merits of its reality TV format and its portrayal of wealth during challenging economic times. While some find it an engaging extension of the ‘Selling Sunset’ formula, others see it as a tired and tone-deaf addition to the genre. As with many reality shows, ‘Buying London’ seems poised to attract viewers both for its luxurious content and the controversy it generates.