anynameoriginal

I made it two episodes and the liberal class envy rants started by of the unapologetic loony left writers. British television, BBC or whatever this originated from, just doesn't resound with me and never will. Like clockwork, English shows tend to hold off politics until after the lead off episode, then slowly drench the rest of the series. I keep trying hoping another show like Cranford might slip past the censors. I love the culture of old-school England, but the multiculturalism push in most every show gets old. I imagine the current tv shows are multiple letter alphabet central stringently spitting on us old fashion folks that dared to actually spank our kids because we didn't want them the grow up juvenile delinquents. I honestly think most of the writers think women's lib, communism and hating Hitler (while praising Stalin) are all there is to writing.

While I harp on with things that I imagine bore most the review seekers here, let me also say a few good things about this show, or at least the first couple of episodes that I watched... One liked the heart William (the undertaker) had for his clients, his professionalism, what a great premise and endearing part of William's character. The variety of grief came in well played, from non-caring to dealing with an overbearing parent that has suddenly been lifted. The care Mary had for her patients was also endearing. I also though the acting was above par... Even the secondary characters were decently acted.

Things I didn't like... loved the fact that William loved his wife until the end... then suddenly the writers decided he didn't love his late wife. Why? That he hated his life as an undertaker (why, when he performed it with such love)... It just didn't make sense. I didn't like that Mary's old flame seemed to adore her, and worked so hard to regain her attentions... but he was too "dumb" for her... I thought the writers championshipped the ole working class but he was just portrayed as some dumb bloke that paints himself in a corner (time and time again because he lets the mother lead him around like a cow). The mother is also portrayed as so unlikable/loser/meddlesome/clingy/schemer. I understand it plays in the ability to drum up drama, but it needs capped to believable levels. I guess I live a boring life, but dramas that cram-in so much commotion you can't catch your breath gets tiresome. The humor is sparse, and often not that funny. In the long run, I found the series depressing.

Watch the first episode, it is a great start, my advice is to watch it and imagine a happy ending to it and move on the another series. One where the relationship wasn't on such shaky ground you had to plan spectacular fireworks to impress for the next date.

Studio C / JK Studios is one of the funniest productions companies that showcase a somewhat unique flavor of humor. For the most part they don't go all out trash humor, and keep most the jokes above the beltline. This film had a few jokes a little darker than what one was used to from the gang. I don't believe this movie was part of either (JK or Studio C), but obviously they let the leads keep their humor style that I have grown to love the past 6 years that I have known them.

The two leading ladies are a great match, and have been refining their humor timing for a decade or more. Some of the best delivery in the business and though this film lacked tons of action, it made the difference up in just constant witty dialog. I liked it even better the second viewing. I look forward to their next film "Go West" where I hope the same formula is applied only with more original members from Studio C / JK Studios.