I don't know if anyone's highlighted this programme before, but the "True Stories" series seems to be great television that is absolutely fascinating in the way that Channel 5's "Extraordinary People" was. Except that unlike that program, "True Stories" is more a compendium of the work of different documentary makers from around the world. For example, Werner Herzog's "Encounters at the End of the World" is the next to be shown on More 4, next Tuesday.

Yes, the program focusses on who or what we would describe as freakish or different, and therein I believe lies its appeal. In the same way that a high brow documentary such as the BBC's "Panarama" does, it looks into topics and shows you what they are. No cover ups. Just brutal honesty, and absolutely gripping television.

As you may have guessed, I am a fan of documentaries. But let that not put you off at least watching the most recent "episode" (?), Richard Butchin's "The Last American Freak Show", which is truly like a Waitsian nightmare come to life. Or a real life version of any one of the Tiger Lillies' lyrical atrocities. People with physical deformities are paraded around, though unlike the Victorian freak shows of old, at least they have the choice to come and go as they please. (The "Lobster Boy" has to head off to work in a normal job every so often) But what I find the most poignant, so to speak, about the film, is that by the end of the film, it is clear that the physically able people who are "organising" the tour are the real freaks; detestable in a way that the disabled, genuine people (such as Jackie the Half Woman) are not.

It kept me fascinated for an hour and a half, anyway.

Worth a look in, you can view it on 4oD if you're interested.

http://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-last-american-freak-show

I believe it will restore your faith in television. Well, if you've watched the X Factor or I'm A Celebrity... this can be your perfect antidote.

The "True Stories" series can be found here for anyone wanting more.

http://www.channel4.com/programmes/themes/true-stories