New Zealand journalist and filmmaker, David Farrier embarks on a journey around the world to visit dark and unusual tourist destinations.

Although he explores obscure places, the way Farrier carries himself and how he reacts to situations can be interpreted as disrespectful. For example, when in Mexico City, he reports on an exorcism and how it may “disturb the neighbors” in an ignorant tone. 

In another episode, when touring Alexandra township in South Africa, Farrier tells his guide who lives there that he’s never been on a “slum tour” but then apologizes repeatedly, realizing his misspoken mistake.

 

The show runs about 40 minutes per episode, but the places Farrier visits only get about 10 minutes of airtime. The short airtime is an excuse for the lack of helpful lessons geared towards informing viewers of the macabre but makes no excuse for the tourist’s ignorant and disrespectful comments toward the residents of these remote places.

David Farrier looks on to these strange cultures and mocks them. He invites others to do so as well, instead of teaching the viewers of “Dark Tourist” to appreciate different cultures. It’s as if he wants others to join him in close-minded mocking.

Instead of treating these interesting places as an opportunity to learn something new about the world, Farrier views them as museum exhibits. Farrier is displaying these people and their cultures to the world for others to marvel and laugh at, as he often does in this distasteful Netflix show.

I would rate this show three out of 10. When viewing this show, keep in mind that the places may be worth a visit, regardless of Farrier’s close-minded opinions.