If you want to know what this is like, think Big Train, crossed with Monty Python, with a smear of Jam and a bit of the essence of Father Ted, a smattering of Withnail & I and perhaps a few pinches of half a dozen other shows I've forgotten about.
In other words, this show isn't original. But then what is?. What matters is that it's intelligent and something written with intelligence will always attain a unique feel, regardless of it's inspirations.
Some of the sketches, most of them in fact, are multi layered. There's lots going on making repeat viewings a must. The performers are all quite likable and diverse and work together well. It feels quite old fashioned in it's restrained nature. There's an expletive here and there and the odd bit of shock humour but those things are never the sole focus of the well crafted sketches, they merely add to them.
This really is the best BBC TV comedy in years. I fully expect it to gradually attract a loyal fan base once word gets around. Until then, tune into BBC4 and get there first.
