The BEST episodes directed by Richard Cooke
#1 - Michael Palin's Quest for Artemisia
BBC Documentaries - Season 2015 - Episode 317
Curious about a powerful but violent painting that caught his eye, Michael Palin sets off on a quest to discover the astonishing story of the forgotten female artist who painted it over 400 years ago. Travelling to Italy in search of Artemisia Gentileschi's tale, Michael encounters her work in Florence, Rome and Naples. Michael unearths not only her paintings but a complex life which included her rape as a teenager and the ensuing indignity of a full trial, her life as a working mother and her ultimate success against all odds as one of the greatest painters of the Baroque age who transformed the way women were depicted in art and who was sought after in many courts across 17th-century Europe.
#2 - The Millionaire's Gift Guide
BBC Documentaries - Season 2016 - Episode 7
Enter the world of luxury through the eyes of the planners and suppliers who help the super rich spend their money. High-end event planners Sophie and Charlotte are launching a new venture at a stately home - a kids' Christmas party with real reindeer, a unicorn, balloons that cost £50 a pop and a cake worth £10,000. Vintage watch dealer Tom travels to Geneva for the world's top watch auction to learn whether his prized timepiece is worth the quarter of a million he wants for it. Personal stylist Daniel is in Mayfair to meet a client who, in just 10 minutes, signs off on several hundred thousand pounds of gifts.