For a real behind the scenes look at SEMA’s behemoth, watch for Discovery Channel’s hi-def production hosted by builder legend in his own time Chip Foose. This is one smart docu-pitch, filmed after hours and without the usual mind-numbing acid guitar for no apparent reason loops.

I discovered what I missed — a lot — by skipping the tires and wheels pavillion at the show. Foose, one of the most talented car crafters of this era, acknowledges his peers while discretely letting you know why he’s the talent at the top of the hill. (Foose and powersports bike builder Denny Berg are both Transportation Design graduates of the acclaimed Pasadena Art College — proof that while there’s natural talent, developed natural talent puts these practitioners on a level of their own.)

In rotation for awhile, go to Discovery Channel’s web site then select Discovery HD and search for SEMA: After Hours for next cablecast.