Street Genius

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  • TV-PG
  • 2013
  • 2 Seasons
  • 7.4  (354)

Street Genius is an entertaining and informative TV series that aired on the National Geographic channel between 2013 and 2015. The show follows the adventures of Tim Shaw, a British presenter and former radio host, as he explores the science and technology behind some of the most impressive street performers and creative individuals around the world.

Together with his team comprised of scientific experts George D. Miklos and Freddie Evaristo, Tim sets out to meet a new street genius in each episode, trying to uncover the secrets behind their extraordinary skills and talents. From fire breathing and sword swallowing to lock picking and card trickery, the show covers a wide range of fascinating and often dangerous pursuits.

What sets Street Genius apart from the typical reality show format is the way it combines entertainment and education in a way that highlights not only the tricks and techniques used by street performers, but also the science behind their success. Each episode is packed with explanations of physics, chemistry, biology, and other scientific disciplines that are used to explain how some of the seemingly impossible feats are achieved. For instance, viewers learn how fire eaters use the Leidenfrost effect to avoid burning their mouths, and how skateboarders manipulate the laws of motion to perform gravity-defying stunts.

In addition to the science aspect, the show also delves into the cultural and historical significance of the street arts and performers. Tim and his team travel to various cities around the world, including London, Paris, Las Vegas, and New York, to meet performers and learn about their backgrounds and motivations. These segments offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of street performers, who often come from marginalized or disadvantaged backgrounds and rely on their skills to make a living.

Throughout the series, Tim proves to be an engaging and charismatic presenter, who is not afraid to join in the antics of the street performers and put himself in harm's way. Whether he is getting set on fire, suspended from a crane, or riding shotgun in a high-speed car, Tim injects a sense of fun and spontaneity into the show that keeps viewers entertained.

The supporting cast of experts, George and Freddie, also add a lot to the show. George, a mechanical engineer, provides the technical knowledge needed to explain the science behind the performers' abilities, while Freddie, a former member of the British Army's Special Forces, brings an element of danger and excitement to the show. Together, they form a well-rounded team that works to unravel the mysteries behind some of the world's most impressive street performers.

Overall, Street Genius is a highly entertaining and informative show that offers a unique perspective on the science and culture of street performances. With its blend of science, history, and adventure, the show is sure to captivate viewers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're interested in physics, chemistry, or just curious about the secrets behind some of the most incredible street performers around the world, this show is definitely worth checking out.

Street Genius is a series that ran for 2 seasons (32 episodes) between June 10, 2013 and on National Geographic

Street Genius
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Seasons
Human Cannonball
12. Human Cannonball
May 18, 2015
Tim Shaw chooses a junkyard to show us some of the mysteries of gravity.
Blasts, Fire, & Beers
11. Blasts, Fire, & Beers
May 11, 2015
Tim detonates black powder in four different contents - water, air, sand and a partial vacuum. Which of the four will contain the biggest blast?
Pedal To The Metal
10. Pedal To The Metal
May 4, 2015
Discover the intense white heat of magnesium and the winning qualities of increased muscle power.
Shock & Awe
9. Shock & Awe
May 4, 2015
Discover what happens when water pressure matches up against a steel tank.
Blow it Up
8. Blow it Up
April 27, 2015
Tim joins a bowling team to fire a ball across the desert using four unusual substances for fuel.
Positively Shocking
7. Positively Shocking
April 27, 2015
Witness the crushing power of a steel blade and the explosive action of a man-made lightning bolt.
Pressure Cooker
6. Pressure Cooker
April 13, 2015
Tim defies gravity with whiskey and water, makes a lemon taste surprisingly sweet, and shows what happens when a water heater lacks a vent.
Crash & Burn
5. Crash & Burn
April 13, 2015
Experiments involve a truck driving under a series of falling cinder blocks, an explosive car contest and water balloons that can stop bullets.
Shooters, Showers, & Shockwaves
4. Shooters, Showers, & Shockwaves
April 6, 2015
Tim Shaw investigates why things do what they do.
Master Blaster
3. Master Blaster
April 6, 2015
Tim Shaw sets off fire extinguisher rockets and vacuum packs a human being.
Shattering Conclusions
2. Shattering Conclusions
March 30, 2015
Host Tim Shaw hits the Las Vegas streets and shines the spotlight on some incredible science as he tests the sticking power of glue, the kicking power of a rocket boot and the mystifying properties of dry ice.
Falling, Floating, Feasting
1. Falling, Floating, Feasting
March 30, 2015
In a football challenge, a field-goal kicker goes up against three different machines. Tim reveals the best way to win a hot dog eating contest.
Description
Where to Watch Street Genius
Street Genius is available for streaming on the National Geographic website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Street Genius on demand at Disney+, Amazon, Vudu and Apple TV.
  • Premiere Date
    June 10, 2013
  • IMDB Rating
    7.4  (354)