Released at the start of the year, the first season of Netflix's Six Nations documentary received mixed reviews among fans. Many enjoyed the open-hearted nature of the show which allowed those new to the sport to immerse themselves in the inner workings of individual players and teams.
There were complaints from the more 'avid' rugby fans and journalists that the journey through the 2023 Six Nations only scratched the very surface of what Formula One has been able to achieve with their 'Drive to Survive' series. Now heading into its sixth series, Drive to Survive took its time to build up its now impressive follower count - so Six Nations: Full Contact can be argued to be heading in the right direction.
Repping an impressive 7.5/10 rating on IMDB after its first season, alongside some impressive internal metrics, Netflix has reportedly since confirmed the renewal of the series for a second season.
Spotted filming during the recent England vs Wales press conference, rumours have been circulating the RugbyDump newsroom as to the possibilities of further seasons. According to a report by the Telegraph today, the rumours have now been all but confirmed.
The new series is reported to include an increased amount of access to players, stadiums and coaches.
Read some reviews from the first season:
"The series has got quite a harsh reception in the media but I enjoyed it a lot. I follow rugby so didn't need explainers on the rules of the game but I could see how some background and also the history of the Six Nations could have been beneficial.
"The characters are compelling and the interviews with specific players going to their homes, hearing their partners worries and learning their family history was interesting and fresh.
"Overall I think it's a strong series but it's not quite sure whether it should be 'Drive to Survive' following multiple characters or 'The Quarterback' which focuses on just three NFL players.
I expect season 2 to get better and commend this first effort!"
8/10
"If you're into background stories of individuals, the histories of the rivalries/competition etc, and the physicality of the sport, then this is totally the show for you. It's a decent series.
"But if you're hoping for an insight into the sport's rules and how the game is played to help gain an interest in the sport, then you won't get any of that.
"I was hoping the creators might have followed the F1 Drive to Survive series, where that had the odd explanation thrown in, which told us what the odd rule is, or what certain tactics aim to achieve etc.
"I was never a fan of F1, but I watched that series and because stuff was explained, it created an interest for me and I now see a point in watching a full race.
"I don't watch Rugby matches because I find them boring and too stop-start... Plus I don't understand all the rules, so confuses me when random penalties are given.
"I was hoping this Six Nations series would've chucked in some education. A bit more insight in that regard might convince me to have more interest in actual games.
"Others might feel the same perhaps.
"Still, I enjoyed the series because I have had plenty of experience with the rugby atmosphere thru friends, so it's not a totally alien sport to me. But to folk that's never given it a proper chance (like me with F1), it might be tough to stick with. It's not convinced me to start watching full games anyway."
7/10
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