I have, overall, liked BB4.
Like Lee, I felt BB3 was an abomination. They messed too much with the format, which is based on slow boil resentment, affection, rivalry, and most of all, institutionalisation.
Once you lose the normal horizons and exposure to the challenges of life, you withdraw into your own small universe.
People you initially thought were quirky and funny become hugely annoying, those you may have thought big headed and gobby may become someone who makes your body go Ch- Ching!
There is a great element of chance on who goes when, and as to who becomes an ally and who becomes your best friend.
This is the beauty of BB, and despite it's simplicity, it still sets it above all the other reality knock out competitions. Human nature in all it's facets is exposed slowly over weeks.
Quite apart from the mind-blowing publicity which follows for most, and the lasting fame that follows for some, it MUST have a cathartic effect on them all.
I don't think it is at all far-fetched to say that housemates went in for the experience. They must learn so much about themselves and other people. What an experience!
BB4 has largely left a group of new friends, and I think the same can be said for BB1 and BB2.
BB3 housemates have formed into small growling groups, as illustrated by what Kate said on RI:SE the other morning: Only she and Alison turned up to the wrap-up party.
The real stories that emerge have done so without major interference from BB -apart perhaps from strategic access to booze:
Nasty Nick
Drunken body painting
Rows
and, of course falling in Love
Nothing massive happened on BB4, but it might have. There were 'twists' but the boat stayed steady. Hopefully it will next year too.