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Pulling - BBC3 sitcom
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Pulling is now available to view on the BBC3 website (it starts on BBC3 this Thursday).
I'm struggling to come up with a review for this one - let us know what you thought of it please!
EDIT: Our guide to the show is here
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Matthew Stott said:
Have only seen the ads so far, but it didnt exactly make me want to investigate any further.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
DigiGuide is telling me that it's a comedy drama, which immediately translates (from prior experience) to "poo" in my mind. I'll see what I think come Thursday though.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, comedyman... said:
I agree... what a looser! 
Certainly the Sky EPG said nothing of 'comedy drama' and even if it did... get a life. Its Sharon Horgan and Dennis Kelly writing (do your research), Tristram Shapeero directing (do your research) and was co-devised by the late great Harry Thompson (do your research)... How could you possibly not be intreged and excited by this show... what do you want series 4 of Catherine Tate on ASAP... god help us all! 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Lighten up. Just because someone isn't overly excited about the debut of Pulling doesn't mean that they need to get a life.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, comedyman... said:
yeah sorry... it was more the unbelievable fact that two words taken from the EPG could mould someones opinion on an entire series that erked me... of course once someone has seen it then they can say what they like...
thanks for the lightening up advice... i am a little tense today!
cheers
Having watched the hour long Ep1 I can see why BBC3 are so excited by this new show. Its got life, its got soul and its got real laughs. What I like about Horgan and Kelly and their particular brand of comedy is that they dont rely on the lowest common denominator to grab a laugh. We arent subjected to obvious sexual, racial or physical discrimination every 5 seconds out of some desperation to shock and therefore apparently entertain the nation.
With Pulling we are taken on a sometimes hysterical, sometimes feelgood and sometimes down right miserable journey through life, the way it should be. Some of the scenes are so amazingly and sensationally cringe worthy to the point you want to curl up and hide... when did you last feel that? the Office? Partridge? Curb?... this show has the appeal to stick around for many years to come and for us comedy lovers to really get to know the characters in a way we all should do in a true sitcom...
Well done all who worked on this show.
Cant wait for ep3... have heard something about a shaving incident that a mate of mine saw and said he laughed so much a "little bit of wee came out"... great show... Roll on BBC2 repeats... what you waiting for!!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SlagA said:
I find it weird they invented a genre - comedy drama - that is neither comedy nor drama. Now that's clever.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Matthew Stott said:
Comedyman, if that diatribe was aimed at me, then its entirely up to me what i do and dont get excited about. The ads looked poor, so I wasnt excited. Nothing about it perked my interest, if its got you interested then thats up to you. Why so upset anyway? Its not like you wrote it. From now on I promise to be insanely excited about every single new comedy that is broadcast.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jason Kindred said:
I'll reserve full judgement until I've watched a few episodes, but from the trailers it does look pretty dire.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, JohnnyD said:
Quote: Matthew Stott @ November 22, 2006, 5:36 PMComedyman ... Its not like you wrote it.
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Actually, it's just like Comedyman wrote it.
Or worked on it, maybe?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
It was certainly a passioned response.
Lines like, "With Pulling we are taken on a sometimes hysterical, sometimes feelgood and sometimes down right miserable journey through life, the way it should be" sounded like they came straight out of the press pack.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Encoraged by comedyman's glowing review I decided to give this a whirl. Alas, it was shit. Not funny, depressing, lazy writing, phoned in performances from all involved, tedious characters (especially the teacher - are we really supposed to believe that this emotional retard would be allowed near children?) and why did it drag on for so long? It took around three hours to get the main character away from her fiancee and in to the clutches of her fuckwit friends when the writers could have done this in two minutes.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: comedyman... @ November 22, 2006, 8:01 AMI agree... what a looser!
Certainly the Sky EPG said nothing of 'comedy drama' and even if it did... get a life. Its Sharon Horgan and Dennis Kelly writing (do your research), Tristram Shapeero directing (do your research) and was co-devised by the late great Harry Thompson (do your research)... How could you possibly not be intreged and excited by this show... what do you want series 4 of Catherine Tate on ASAP... god help us all!
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Anger, anger everywhere, and not a moment to think.
Anyway, unfortunately it clashed with Question Time, so I'll have to catch a repeat.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Andrew Collins said:
Quote: Johnny Dee @ November 23, 2006, 2:57 PM
Actually, it's just like Comedyman wrote it.
Or worked on it, maybe?
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I hope Comedyman didn't write it. From the evidence on this thread thus far, he or she can't spell "loser" or "irked" or use the common apostrophe.
Or "intrigued." Honestly, Mrs Thatcher has a lot to answer for.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, comedyman... said:
ok... good boy!
ps - didnt write it, sadly...
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, comedyman... said:
wheeler (i assume thats three wheeler?)... if your 'painting by numbers' assination of that show were at all true or focused i might be able to at least agree in part.... what a petty load of tosh, at least give an argument not just obvious shallow critisism (with no back up)... please tell me, i am all ears. what are your favourite comedy shows of the last 2 years... come on lets hear it. if you are such a knowledge and comedy master, lets hear what ticks your box... oh quick, hurry 'two pints' has just started...
fair play Andrew... i hold me honds up there... i am a shit speller and dont have any grammer discipline at all,,
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
How old are you, you silly twat? You're saying that if you don't like Pulling, then you automatically like Two Pints...More importantly, why do you take it so personally when people criticise the show? Mark asked for people's thoughts so I posted mine after watching it last night and, somewhat predictably, you had a hissy fit when you read it. First up, you call Aaron "a looser" who needs to get a life when he says that it doesn't look like his kind of thing, then you have a go at me for daring to suggest that Pulling is a pile of wank that should have remained in development hell.
Actually, I think I know why you take it so personally when people criticise the show. Pulling is so poor that I wouldn't be surprised if you are one of the writers.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, comedyman... said:
Ok wheeler...you win. Its a load of shit, you know best. I was up for healthy, lively debate but clearly that's too emotionally taxing for you. Please dont worry about it. Please dont feel you have to back up your claims with intelligent opinion. Lets just say you are right, I am wrong and call it a day there. I can however state that I am not the writer and am not involved in the show in anyway. I am however a comedy fan and was refreshingly pleased by this show and the fact that it didnt ram obvious gags down your throat every 3 seconds... however this has clearly got out of hand and you are clearly rather upset. Have a lovely weekend Wheeler (my new online best chum). Take care. x 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Have a good one, you cock.
I'm all for healthy, lively debate (as you put it), but it is wasted on people who argue along the lines of - you don't like Pulling? Yeah, well that's cos you love Two Pints and you want to marry the writer, Mr Poopy Pants!
When confronted with an overexcitable fool who soils himself every time someone criticises Pulling, I find that intelligent debate goes out the window.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Matthew Stott said:
That comedyman is an odd fellow. And he enjoys shit TV. Passionately. Very odd.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, comedyman... said:
By request of some of our visitors this post has been removed due to the offensive language used within it
Incidently Wheeler, whom the tirade was directed at didn't complain!... I'm starting to suspect he quite enjoys being verbally assaulted by our immature teenage members! 
he's a magnet for it! - Mark, BSG Editor
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Quote: Matthew Stott @ November 24, 2006, 5:08 PMThat comedyman is an odd fellow. And he enjoys shit TV. Passionately. Very odd.
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And he says things like, "I was up for healthy, lively debate but clearly that's too emotionally taxing for you" when his idea of healthy, lively debate is calling people 'loosers' and yelling at them, "How could you possibly not be intreged and excited by this show... what do you want series 4 of Catherine Tate on ASAP... god help us all!"
And don't get me started on that last post. Wanker.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Leah Bevan said:
Watched the first ten minutes and gave up I'm afraid. I'd class it alongside Two pints of lager... and that other thing with half the case of Two pints. Not really my cup of tea but I can see the interest for some people.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Matthew Stott said:
I see hes been banned. Theres a surprise. Abusing people over a message board, what a very clever and brave thing to do.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Not only has he been banned, but I live within walking distance of his ISP's head office.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
I'm thinking of changing my signature to:
"three wheeler you are a tosser. I honestly pity anyone who actually respects your opinion in anything you could possibly pass off as intelligent thought... you knob jockey!" - Pulling's no. 1 fan, R.I.P
OR...
"I am gladdened that Wheller is no more then a fucking sad little shit who is probably looking forward to a weekend of re-runs of his favourite clips of mallets mallet!!" - Pulling's no. 1 fan, R.I.P
OR...
"I can safely say that Wheeler is a tragic and lonely c**t flap, that as soon as someone challenges, cant hold an argument, cant substantiate their point and really should just give up and stick their fucking head in the oven..." - Pulling's no. 1 fan, R.I.P
So many options. What do you guys think?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Number three! Number three!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
I think I'll stick with the shot drowned signature for the time being. A couple of days down the line and fuckwit's insults don't quite do it for me.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ginger Jesus said:
I think you should stick with shot drowned as well. It'llhave to be something pretty special to knock our Original Gangster Chippandale from the top spot.
Although reading back, if you shorten the first one to "I can safely say Wheeler is a tragic and lonely c~*t flap" It's quite punchy.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Do you get the feeling that Chip and comedyman were the same person? Both had a tenuous grasp of the English language and both argued like seven year old girls.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
One would think so, but alas, it is not the case.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
I for one thought it was funny hours television, there's nothing else on the box at the moment this good...I myself was also not expecting too much as the trailers looked distinctly average. Having said that i'm surprised theres such difference of opinion having seen it...the performances are great...i've watched the next episode online and it didn't disappoint...if you only gave it ten minutes i urge you to watch more. Beats the mitchell and webb rubbish by a country mile.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
I watched it tonight too. A hard one to call. As a "comedy", it'd be absolutely fucking shocking, with only a small handful of funny moments throughout the whole hour, but as a "comedy drama", it wasn't all that bad. Not brilliant of course, and I'm not sure that I'd go out of my way to tune in to it, but a relatively entertaining hour of TV.
But then, there was absolutely shit all else on the box tonight, so I suppose my sense of reasoning may have been a little off.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
Well be it more comedy drama and not sitcom...it still made me laugh more than alot of so called comedy at the moment be they sketch format or sitcom. I just don't get the appeal of some sketch shows at the moment, they're not a patch on the comedy of previous years...perhaps my outlook has changed and i'm after more sophisticated humour...not having a laughter track helps.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
As SlagA pointed out, comedy drama is a genre that is neither comedy nor drama. For example, Pulling isn't remotely funny and fails to engage on a dramatic level.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
you've clearly made your mind up wheeler...however I couldn't disagree with you more...no it's not the best comedy/comedy drama in the world, but to me and that's an opinion I thought it was very good. Out of interest what is your favourite comedy at the moment?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
The Britcoms on offer at the moment are pretty poor IMHO (Pulling isn't even the worst, which says it all really - that award goes to the appalling Jam and Jerusalem, with Tittybangbang not far behind). But if I had to pick one I would go for Lead Balloon which is nothing special although it has its moments. In terms of 2006 as a whole, I would nominate Extras - again, far from perfect but it did have some laugh out loud moments.
I hope my posts don't give the impression that I have a problem with people who like Pulling. I don't. The world would be a boring place blah blah blah. My problem is with people who make a pathetic attempt to patronise me for stating an opinion and, when that doesn't work, hurl insults in my general direction.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
The reason forums are so popular is down to debates, so i welcome agreement and disagreement...so i've no qualms that 'pulling' isn't everyones cup of tea. Lead Balloon is good and I've watched four of the episodes but it hasn't grabbed me...i want to be running home to see the next epsiode, that hasn't happened since the office...other sitcoms have come and gone which have been enjoyable, I remember the first series of nighty night nearly got me but not quite. Saxondale left me somewhat disappointed, I had hoped that would be it!
I'm new to this site but looks a good place to find out about comedy related issues...and obviously a good place for banter...
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Quote: Ollie @ November 27, 2006, 5:30 PMLead Balloon is good and I've watched four of the episodes but it hasn't grabbed me...i want to be running home to see the next epsiode, that hasn't happened since the office...
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I agree that it's not essential viewing, but the best of a bad bunch. BTW, I've looked at your profile and agree with many of the shows that you list as favourites. Usually when I disagree with someone on this forum about a show, I look at their favourites and realise that we have nothing in common and that further discussion is pointless, but this is one of those occasions when two people have similar comedy tastes but differ on one particular show.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
I'm beginning to doubt myself now! No honestly I thought it was good and I'm sticking to that...it's weird that I even gave it ago as the trailers looked terrible...Not exactly for this forum and not a comparison but did you like say 'teachers' something with strong characters and easy watching with humourous storylines?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
ahh... nice to see you two have made up! 
Just to throw a spanner in the works I thought Lead Balloon was pretty good - still, as you say, each to their own. At least we all seem to be in agreement that Jam and Jersualem is unlikely to win any awards unless it bucks up its ideas quickly.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, JohnnyD said:
Quote: Mark @ November 27, 2006, 9:57 PMAt least we all seem to be in agreement that Jam and Jersualem is unlikely to win any awards ...
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I think it highly likely that it will win a stack of awards.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Andrew Collins said:
Rather than say that comedy-drama is neither comedy nor drama, wouldn't a more positive way of looking at it be that comedy-drama is both comedy and drama. Think of Cold Feet. That pulled off what is a very difficult trick, in that it was comedic and dramatic. So did the first series of Life Begins, I'd say. And Auf Wiedersehen Pet. It's too easy to say that a hyphenate is neither one nor the other. It's like saying jazz-funk is neither jazz nor funk, when in fact it is both. It's also shit, but that's beside the point.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
So I guess that makes Pulling sitcom's answer to jazz-funk?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
Or Indie/britpop...massive following but it's not going to please everyone.
Wheeler = S Club 7
Ollie = Blur
Just jesting!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Ollie, please note that I'm now the moderator of this particular section. Comparing me to S Club 7 is even more offensive than calling me a c***flap, as far as I'm concerned. You have been warned.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
er okay how do you like these apples!
Ollie = The Beatles
Wheeler = The Vengaboys...
now that's too far! I now need a new angle of being offensive!
I'm beginning to repeat myself, which brings me back round to That mitchell and Webb Look same old same old flog a dead horse same sketch etc!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Andrew has a point regarding hypenation etc, but I think the biggest problem with this "comedy-drama" genre is that all too often it's used to describe shows which, quite frankly, aren't. IMO, it seems to be one of those "catch-all" type classifications, used when the press office (or whoever) can't quite pin the show down to anything else.
For example; pretty much all shows have elements of humour in them - including proper dramas, even those period ones for which the BBC is famous - but they don't get described as comedy-period-drama, comedy-news, or comedy-documentary because they've got a more exact genre that they can be put into.
Hell, if anyone's watched Holby City or Casualty over the past couple of years, they'll know that they can be funnier than the latest "hit" sitcom, but they're not described as "comedy-drama" because, again, they have a bit more specificity in their subject.
Anyway, that's my two penneth worth.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Quote: Ollie @ November 29, 2006, 2:03 PMer okay how do you like these apples!
Ollie = The Beatles
Wheeler = The Vengaboys...
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You're making things worse for yourself.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, steve by any other name said:
In an effort to combat a patch of writers block and to occupy my mind while I ploughed through a plate of sausage sarnies, I have just watched episode 4 of Pulling on the BBC3 web site. We only have channels 1 through 4, 5 we miss out on because we live, I don't know, on a hill or the side of a valley or something, for the same reason we can't get free view, and I'm too tight to pay for anything else. So I've not watched any prior to now and, well, I have to say, I quite enjoyed it. I took comedymans advice and 'did my research' and certainly Ms Horman seems to have a pretty good pedegree. If it comes to BBC2 I dare say I'll give it a go from the start. Head and shoulders above J&J IMHO. Actually, that's no compliment, but you know what I mean.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
Well I'm awaiting the next epsiode with real excitement...seen the one on BBC3 tonight already and need the fix of the new one that'll be online...
I'd go as far saying my order of comedy
Partridge
Office
Phoenix
People like us
Nighty night
Peep show
Curb
Pulling
Catterick
Little Britain
so it's in my top ten! it may move up depending on the last two episodes ...as if anyone really cares about my opinion like!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Steve, I'm glad you added 'Actually, that's no compliment, but you know what I mean' after saying Pulling was 'Head and shoulders above J&J IMHO.'
Having watched both of them, I can't decide which one is the biggest turkey. Dawn French and her comedy wig vs. Pulling's annoying central character and the twats she hangs around with? It's a tough one to call.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, steve by any other name said:
I guess it just made me laugh more than J&J. The episode (of Pulling) I saw made me laugh out loud a couple of times. Which is actually pretty poor for a sit com.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
I'm obviously standing alone on this one...I'll stick to my guns though
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Wheeler @ December 7, 2006, 2:34 PMSteve, I'm glad you added 'Actually, that's no compliment, but you know what I mean' after saying Pulling was 'Head and shoulders above J&J IMHO.'
Having watched both of them, I can't decide which one is the biggest turkey. Dawn French and her comedy wig vs. Pulling's annoying central character and the twats she hangs around with? It's a tough one to call.
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Definitely J&J. Pulling isn't especially funny, but it does seem to have something kind of entertaining about it. Well, in comparison to J&J anyway.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
I've just watched episode 5 online and think there are some very good lines and really good dialogue...I know it sounds like i'm on a one man love please 'pulling' campaign but I'd love to know your opinions...perhaps it's not just the comedy I love but also the characters I think in the main they are really strong and wait in antcipation at anything Karen's foul mouth comes out with...
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Well, you know my opinion, but here's another one. I was out for Christmas drinks with friends last night. One of them started going on about Jam and Jerusalem and how much he liked it. Funniest thing on TV for years, apparently. I then asked him if he had seen Pulling. His response: "Yes. It's absolute shit."
Make of that what you will.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, kate Campbell said:
all I'd say to that is that if he thinks Jam and Jerusulem is the funniest thing he's seen in years then his opinion cannot be trusted in any way. Obviously.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Wheeler @ December 8, 2006, 10:22 AMWell, you know my opinion, but here's another one. I was out for Christmas drinks with friends last night. One of them started going on about Jam and Jerusalem and how much he liked it. Funniest thing on TV for years, apparently. I then asked him if he had seen Pulling. His response: "Yes. It's absolute shit."
Make of that what you will.
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ROFL!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Quote: kate Campbell @ December 8, 2006, 2:58 PMall I'd say to that is that if he thinks Jam and Jerusulem is the funniest thing he's seen in years then his opinion cannot be trusted in any way. Obviously.
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I don't know about that. He also likes Hyperdrive, Tittybangbang and Dogtown, so he obviously knows what he is talking about.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SlagA said:
Did you forget Lead Balloon, Wheeler? And Supernova?
I'm gutted I missed all this, being diverted with a new script. Wheeler, you are the forum's gladiatorial equivalent of Maximus Insultimus Forumica. That's one troll and a trainee down. Good shooting. And you're right imo to stick with the current signature, it was a true classic wittered from the mouth of the archetype of all trolls. Gawd rest his soul.
The comment re: comedy-drama being neither one nor the other was a joke but it does have imo a grain of truth. All comedy has drama elements; all drama has comedy elements but up until recent times a show was designated as either drama or comedy. There was no real confusion about where a show fitted. No arguments over which department would produce it. So why the sudden need for this new label?
When a new genre is created it's because a product can't easily be defined by existing genres. So when something is not funny enough to be called (as in the past) a straight comedy or dramatic enough to be called (as in the past) a straight drama, execs created the concept of comedy-drama. Stating that it's neither one nor the other isn't (imo) necessarily a negative statement. It's my perception of the shows labelled comedy-drama that I've seen so far. It's only my perception and I am, after all, a nobody in this business so my opinion is mere opinion and unlikely to ever concern broadcasting commissioners.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, kate Campbell said:
Titty bang bang, Dogtown and Hyperdrive? Are you being funny?
Do you like Titty Bang Bang?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
I love Tittybangbang. A comic tour de force. I laughed so hard I coughed up a kidney. It is really rather amusing. And so on...
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, kate Campbell said:
I'm just gonna assume you're taking the piss. Hard to tell. I'm confused.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, steve by any other name said:
I just watched half of the latest ep of Pulling on the BBC site and I smiled quite a bit. Sorry. I blame Mark, he's the one with a link to it on the home page, that's the only reason I've even heard of it. 'Judy Finnegan doesn't carry a blade.' Classic. Never watched Hyperdrive, Tittybangbang or Lead Balloon. Tried to watch Dogtown on the web, gave up after 15mins. Dog-shitty more like.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
Watch the other half brilliant stuff...
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Big piece of low said:
you do the math
Pulling is the best comedy on TV by an absolute mile. Great characters and razor sharp one liners. eg: oh come on, who hasn't tried to kill themselves (by the brilliant boozing sex mad Karen)
Anyone who has ever been single can obviously relate to it, even though it is from a girls persepctive, nice to see funny gilrs for a change.
Pisses on I'm not really that f***king bothered Tate ars.
Watch it you might actually like it.
And one more thing, Mitchell & Web look is dire.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
'big piece of low' is right...
the whole premise is the single life and it smacks of the truth...few beers and your principles go out of your head...
the clever normal true to life writing makes it head and shoulders above anything else on tv at the moment.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, kate Campbell said:
'Not even with pills?'
For me it's the best thing out there at the moment. I read the earlier comments by Wheeler and couldn't believe he was talking about the same comedy that I had been watching - the 'lazy writing and phoned in performances' stuff. To me it's the opposite of that, I think that even someone who doesn't appreciate the subject matter or like that style of comedy would see that. I can understand differing points of view and people not being keen on the same tv especially when it comes to comedy but.... not having a go Wheeler, just didn't get it!!!!
Good to see there's other folk appreciating - I'm not going mad then.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Well, not alone anyway.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Quote: kate Campbell @ December 14, 2006, 9:24 PMI can understand differing points of view and people not being keen on the same tv especially when it comes to comedy but.... not having a go Wheeler, just didn't get it!!!!
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What you meant to say was, you can understand differing points of view and people not being keen on the same tv especially when it comes to comedy but....not when it comes to a programme that you like. How could someone possibly dislike something that you rate?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
I have been watching Pulling and have enjoyed it. Not paticularly laughing like a bugger, but my mouth veers up on the right side occasionaly. I heard on the rado that it is very sexist towards men!. What bollox. Yes all the Male charachters are wimps,but the female charachters are all fruit & nuts. Its entertaining and there is naff all else on at the mo.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SlagA said:
Quote: charley rance @ December 15, 2006, 1:24 PMI heard on the rado that it is very sexist towards men!. What bollox.
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Glad to hear it isn't sexist. But there's more.
Quote: charley rance @ December 15, 2006, 1:24 PM
Yes all the Male charachters are wimps,but the female charachters are all fruit & nuts.
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Hang on, if that's the case then it is sexist. Sexism isn't always about putting people down on the basis of gender. Portrayal of all characters of one gender in a stereotypical / all-embracing manner (whether it puts them down or builds them up) is still sexism.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, kate Campbell said:
Quote: Wheeler @ December 15, 2006, 11:13 AM
What you meant to say was, you can understand differing points of view and people not being keen on the same tv especially when it comes to comedy but....not when it comes to a programme that you like. How could someone possibly dislike something that you rate?
View original
No I didn't mean to say that. I meant to say exactly what I said, which was; I didn't understand how you could call the writing lazy and performances phoned in. Don't have a problem with you disliking it at all.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
I was just teasing, Kate. I really should copy Aaron and make more use of those smiley faces.
It's just an opinion at the end of the day. For instance, I don't understand the pro-Pulling comments on here...razor sharp one liners...the whole premise is the single life and it smacks of the truth...the clever normal true to life writing makes it head and shoulders above anything else on tv at the moment...
I find it hard to believe that these people are talking about the same turgid nonsense that nearly made me throw the TV out the window.
Right, I'm off to get pissed and forget that Pulling made it on to our TV screens. 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: charley rance @ December 15, 2006, 1:24 PMI have been watching Pulling and have enjoyed it. Not paticularly laughing like a bugger, but my mouth veers up on the right side occasionaly. I heard on the rado that it is very sexist towards men!. What bollox. Yes all the Male charachters are wimps,but the female charachters are all fruit & nuts. Its entertaining and there is naff all else on at the mo.
View original
I think, if faced with slags like the females in Pulling, most men would by "wimps".
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
turgid nonsense....wheeler? no bloody way...
please tell me a better comedy, comedy/drama whatever you want to call it on tv at the moment? and you're not allowed to say 'Keeping Up Appearances'.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
For fuck's sake. For the last time, it's my opinion. I don't like Pulling. And my intense dislike of Pulling doesn't mean that I love Keeping Up Appearances. Grow up, Oliver.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, kate Campbell said:
You forgot to put a smiley face there Wheeler.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
KUA is miles better... Ahem.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Karl said:
KUA isn't even on TV at the moment so that was an odd choice. And yes, it is miles better than the dire Pulling.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
blimey
Keeping up appearances guilty pleasure...wheeler?
lets not fall out...it's a comedy forum! some comments are tongue in cheek...
I myself have laughed at Allo Allo many times...
are we quits?
oh and keeping up appearances has been repeated on Sunday lunchtimes in recent weeks
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Karl said:
Quote: Ollie @ December 16, 2006, 5:53 PM
I myself have laughed at Allo Allo many times...
View original
Going on your comments I'm not surprised that you like Allo Allo. I also have you down as a fan of Meet the Magoons and anything starring Pauline Quirke.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
I didn't say i liked, i said laughed many times, at how bad some of it actually is...! although I'm sure I genuinely laughed when i was 11.
so what melts your butter Karl?...in your opinion Pulling is dire, and that's fine but what is so much better at present?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Quote: Ollie @ December 16, 2006, 5:53 PM
are we quits?
View original
We'll call it quits when you stop acting like the BSG's resident Pulling fanboy. If people don't like the programme, just accept it rather than stamping your feet and firing off such childish responses as 'oh yeah, well what do you like then? Keeping Up Appearances?'
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
i'm only trying to stick up for something...no harm in that surely.
incidently does anyone like KUA?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yes.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SlagA said:
Quote: Ollie @ December 16, 2006, 5:53 PMblimey
I myself have laughed at Allo Allo many times...
View original
The only time I laughed at that was when it was pulled off the TV.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
I too never got into Allo Allo but i know many did.
Now back to this pulling malarky.
I like it.
I like it a lot.
Guess most women will. Its fun, well acted,with love em or hate em charachters (always popular)
I mean just look how big this thread has got.
Guess its more popular than you all give it credit for.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SlagA said:
Is controversy the same as popularity?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
Fair point SlagA.
But controversy is still good. There's no such thing as bad publiicity so they say.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SlagA said:
Tell Michael Barrymore that, and Gary Glitter.
Oh, Nixon, Crippen ... [SlagA walks around the room occasionally throwing out random names and noises]
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Barrymore's not doing too bad these days, is he?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SlagA said:
He's doing awright!
Really Aaron, you walk into these.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
lol, very sharp there SlagA.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ollie said:
hoof back up to the top...of the forum...
BBC2 at long last!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
I thought it was good.
A bit of a girlie thing but so what - it made me smile. Not a real laugh out louder though but well written.
PS - this probably contradicts something else I posted on here.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Wouldn't be a first.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: Aaron @ February 5, 2008, 12:22 AMWouldn't be a first.
View original
That's what happens when you get to my age. Maybe I should go into politics.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick Rivers said:
saw this last night. not really my cup of tea but it is well written and there's a couple of genuinely funny moments.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick said:
First time I had seen the show last night and was reasonably impressed. A solid premise, some decent characters and a few laughs as well.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
I tend to agree with the people damning this show with faint praise. A solid if not particularly original premise, some nice performances, and a couple of good laughs. Whether that's enough to keep me glued for the rest of the series is another matter. Oh, and I do quite fancy Horgan and the actress who plays her ultra slutty mate.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
I thought the episode on Monday night was excellent, a real leap in quality from the more pedestrian opener. And the opening scene, in which Horgan managed to lose both her job and have to pay back six months salary, was a masterclass in great comedy writing.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
I missed this weeks which is a shame.
Did I miss much or can I catch up next week?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
You can catch up easily next week. I don't think the plot to Pulling is what makes it work. All the characters end each episode pretty much where they started.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Quote: David Chapman @ February 13, 2008, 10:37 AMI missed this weeks which is a shame.
View original
You weren't the only one... it only managed ratings of 1/2m this week.
Quote: David Chapman @ February 13, 2008, 10:37 AMDid I miss much or can I catch up next week?
View original
It's on the iPlayer if you don't want to miss out: http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/page/item/b0091g19.shtml
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Karen really is a brilliant character - and the part is a great counterpoint to the main character.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
There are some great lines in it. Obviously, I've forgot them all. Useful aren't I?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
This is proving to be a great show and I'm really sorry I never bothered with it when it was on BBC3. I'm surprised it hasn't made more of an impact, the way Gavin and Stacy apparently has.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
Quote: chipolata @ February 27, 2008, 10:07 AMThis is proving to be a great show and I'm really sorry I never bothered with it when it was on BBC3. I'm surprised it hasn't made more of an impact, the way Gavin and Stacy apparently has.
View original
I agree, I watched the only episode I missed from the first showing last week and I thought it was top. Its got a second series, I believe, so more to come.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Yeah, I must admit I'm only getting into it now - but loving it. Very good. Better than Gavin and Stacey in my opinion too.
Quote: ContainsNuts @ February 27, 2008, 11:31 AMIts got a second series, I believe, so more to come.
View original
Indeed it has. It starts next month on BBC Three. Stay tuned - exact transmision date to follow shortly.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Graham Bandage said:
Er, it's back. Was I the only one who noticed?
Episode 1 was the filthiest yet and I laughed constantly like a big fool.
But do you know who's a bigger fool? That's right, it's you if you didn't watch it. Don't worry though, it's on BBC Three, so it'll be on 12 times tonight. Hooray!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
The problem was that the BBC moved its debut forward (it was supposed to be this Friday), as a result there wasn't much of a chance for pre-publicity.
I personally loved it. Really great writing and acting. A step up from the first series (which was a bit of a slow burner)
Stay tuned: we will be publishing an exclusive interview with Sharon Horgan later in the week
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: Graham Bandage @ March 25, 2008, 10:26 AMEr, it's back. Was I the only one who noticed?
Episode 1 was the filthiest yet and I laughed constantly like a big fool.
But do you know who's a bigger fool? That's right, it's you if you didn't watch it. Don't worry though, it's on BBC Three, so it'll be on 12 times tonight. Hooray!
View original
Trouble is I've got no acces to BBC3 at the moment.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
Quote: Mark @ March 25, 2008, 10:33 AM
Stay tuned: we will be publishing an exclusive interview with Sharon Horgan later in the week
View original
Hey, fantastic. I enjoyed the first series and liked the first episode of this one. Also introducing Paul Kaye is a top move - a fantastic comedy actor.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Bad dog said:
I watched the 1st episode, and I thought it was just a standard drinking & shagging sitcom. You could grab 3 people off the streets, make them write a sitcom and star in it and this is what you'd get.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
Quote: Bad dog @ March 26, 2008, 2:55 PMI watched the 1st episode, and I thought it was just a standard drinking & shagging sitcom. You could grab 3 people off the streets, make them write a sitcom and star in it and this is what you'd get.
View original
Please prove your theory then.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Please don't! People like that shouldn't be allowed life, let alone a national audience!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
For the benefit of those of you who don't look at the front page and rarely venture off into our programme guides, here's the link to our interview with Sharon Horgan which we published the other day:
http://www.comedy.org.uk/guide/tv/pulling/interview/
It's worth checking out if I do say so myself - I'm sure the sitcom writers amongst us will get some added interest out of it too as we talk a bit about that.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
She's one of us!
Excellent interview, I must say, Sir.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
*chants*
One of us, one of us, one of us!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, hotzappa11 said:
Yeah, really good interview. She seems nice.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
I'm loving this comedy - the characters feel really real (but thankfully don't remind me of anyone I know).
The "I'm going to batter this apple" scene made me laugh a lot
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yes, I lol-ed at that one too. Great sequence!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick said:
When I watched the first ep or 2 of this show I thought it was just amiable, inoffensive stuff but now I think it's developed into one of the best sitcoms of the last few years. A great guest appearance by Paul Kaye last night too.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Nick @ March 31, 2008, 9:52 AMWhen I watched the first ep or 2 of this show I thought it was just amiable, inoffensive stuff
View original
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Graham Bandage said:
Quote: Nick @ March 31, 2008, 9:52 AMWhen I watched the first ep or 2 of this show I thought it was just amiable, inoffensive stuff.
View original
What an absolutely terrifying, hardcore, life you must have. I bet Amy Winehouse won't go out for a pint with you because you're "too full on, mate." Is Keith Richards your dad?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
A few Nighty Night-style scenes in there. I think Paul Kaye is in throughout which adds a lot to it. Its been good so far. What happened to Donna's ex?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Graham Bandage @ March 31, 2008, 11:14 AMWhat an absolutely terrifying, hardcore, life you must have. I bet Amy Winehouse won't go out for a pint with you because you're "too full on, mate." Is Keith Richards your dad?
View original
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick said:
Quote: Graham Bandage @ March 31, 2008, 11:14 AMWhat an absolutely terrifying, hardcore, life you must have. I bet Amy Winehouse won't go out for a pint with you because you're "too full on, mate." Is Keith Richards your dad?
View original
Lol. Sorry, I didn't intend that to sound like I live a rock and roll lifestyle when in fact I'm a real lightweight. In the town where I live though the actions of many people leave those in the show looking tame. Great show nevertheless though as I said.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Graham Bandage said:
Quote: Nick @ March 31, 2008, 2:01 PMLol. Sorry, I didn't intend that to sound like I live a rock and roll lifestyle when in fact I'm a real lightweight. In the town where I live though the actions of many people leave those in the show looking tame. Great show nevertheless though as I said.
View original
Slightly disappointed now. Feel a bit empty.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
Great characters. My fav is defo the teacher!
I liked the first serries & a lot of you slated it!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Again I'm missing the new series.
Is Karen still as Charleyesque?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
Mondays episode with the flasher was great. The second series seems far more focussed than the first, and I find the relationship between the drunken slapper and the drunken idiot quite touching. And good to see Paul Kaye (that is his name?) on top form again after a long period of being crap.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yep, that's his name.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
On the subject of Paul Kaye, I thought he was bald? Last time I saw him he didn't have too much up top, now it's suspiciously thick.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
Dunno, he was on that one-off russell brand show a few months back and as Strutter he had a crew-cut thing going on. I guess Pulling was probably filmed before that though so he might have shaved it off. He was on Soccer AM the other week, but didn't log his hair length
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
I'm glad I don't work on the BBC Complaints desk - I expect they'll get a few people who cant seperate fact from fiction ringing up tomorrow to complain about the way Karen and Louise put that cat down!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, johnny roulette said:
i will be one of them.it was awful. and i can seperate fact from fiction.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
I have to say, I didn't really like the cat storyline last night. It seemed like a lazy ill thought out strand with a nasty, mean-spirited pay-off. I expect better from Horgan.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Don't like this show no more.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
Quote: Aaron @ April 7 2008, 6:53 PM BSTDon't like this show no more.
View original
Awwww coz they killi....ed a puddy chat.
I was in hysterics at that. Not that I condone saving a few quid to DIY euthanase a kitty cat.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
If handled correctly, abuse of animals can be funny. Such as in A Fish Called Wanda when Michael Palin's character accidentally killed quite a few animals over the course of the film.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, kate Campbell said:
Or Peep Show when they killed and ate a dog.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
I actually thought that was the best episode of series two. I love the Karl-Tanya storyline, especially the meeting in the shop where it ended with the classic line "best not talk about eating-out my pussy in front of my friends." Ha!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rebecca Davies said:
Usually, I'm not the sort of person who finds killing a sick animal funny, call me a bore, but I love cats, and the idea of them dying painfully doesn't put me in an especially comical mood. HOWEVER, for some reason, I did find myself laughing. In shock mostly. They managed to portray relatable human reactions in an act and context which went so far beyond the realms of reality (for most of us), that it somehow worked for me.
Either way, it was bloody risky, surprised they let it on the air.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, kate Campbell said:
Quote: ContainsNuts @ April 10 2008, 4:46 PM BSTI actually thought that was the best episode of series two. I love the Karl-Tanya storyline, especially the meeting in the shop where it ended with the classic line "best not talk about eating-out my pussy in front of my friends." Ha!
View original
i agree!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Leevil said:
Shall have to check this show out. BBC Three things tend to go under my radar.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
Quote: Leevil @ April 10 2008, 11:22 PM BSTShall have to check this show out. BBC Three things tend to go under my radar.
View original
You sure you're not thinking of Five?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
Quote: Rebecca Davies @ April 10 2008, 5:48 PM BSTUsually, I'm not the sort of person who finds killing a sick animal funny, call me a bore, but I love cats, and the idea of them dying painfully doesn't put me in an especially comical mood.
View original
If you want cat cruelty try the third series of The Shield. In one episode, a a detective strangles a cat just to see what it looks like at the moment of death.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Leevil said:
Quote: ContainsNuts @ April 11 2008, 9:34 AM BSTYou sure you're not thinking of Five?
View original
That too.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, swerytd said:
Quote: chipolata @ April 11 2008, 9:57 AM BSTIf you want cat cruelty try the third series of The Shield. In one episode, a a detective strangles a cat just to see what it looks like at the moment of death.
View original
Off topic, but everyone should watch The Shield anyway. It's the best thing on TV, possibly ever.
That is all.
Dan
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Well I won't be now!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Godot Taxis said:
Quote: swerytd @ April 11 2008, 4:12 PM BSTOff topic, but everyone should watch The Shield anyway. It's the best thing on TV, possibly ever.
That is all.
Dan
View original
I though the best thing on TV was The Wire?
Or did I mix it up with some other super-earnest, over-produced, establishment-re-enforcing, padded yankee cop bollocks.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Leevil said:
That's our Godot!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: zooo @ April 11 2008, 4:15 PM BSTWell I won't be now!
View original
Quite!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, swerytd said:
Quote: Godot Taxis @ April 11 2008, 4:33 PM BSTI though the best thing on TV was The Wire?
Or did I mix it up with some other super-earnest, over-produced, establishment-re-enforcing, padded yankee cop bollocks.
View original
Don't you like *anything*???
Maybe you should sell your tv...
Dan
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Godot Taxis said:
Sorry, Dan I like loads of things, but the best programme on British TV is never a foreign programme, because it doesn't speak accurately enough to British people.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, swerytd said:
What you saying? The British Police *don't* have a balding vigilante lunatic running a 'Strike Team'??? I thought that's how everything worked in the ghetto of Guildford...
Gutted...
Dan
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: swerytd @ April 11 2008, 7:24 PM BSTa balding vigilante lunatic
View original
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
Quote: Aaron @ April 11 2008, 7:28 PM BST
View original
My God he is one Ogly dude.
If I had to be raped by that I would just rather die!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Godot Taxis said:
As a fucking olive branch to all the miserable fuckers who think I'm a disagreeable, bellicose twat, here's an ad hoc list of some things I rate.
Cop Show - Murphy's Law series 4 (not any other series, only 4)
Sitcom - Porridge, Phoenix Nights, Mighty Boosh, Alan Partridge
Mainstream Hollywood Film - Wonderboys, Taxi Driver, American beauty, Summer of Sam
British Film - Debt Collector, The Servant, Loneliness of Long Distance Runner
Playwright - Edward Bond, Howard brenton
Poet - Miroslav Holub, Ted Hughes Peter Porter
Drink - Gin and Tonic
Toy - Lego
Innovation - Open crotch knickers
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Godot Taxis @ April 11 2008, 7:34 PM BSTInnovation - Open crotch knickers
View original
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, swerytd said:
Quote: Godot Taxis @ April 11 2008, 7:34 PM BSTAs a fucking olive branch to all the miserable fuckers who think I'm a disagreeable, bellicose twat, here's an ad hoc list of some things I rate.
Cop Show - Murphy's Law series 4 (not any other series, only 4)
Sitcom - Porridge, Phoenix Nights, Mighty Boosh, Alan Partridge
Mainstream Hollywood Film - Wonderboys, Taxi Driver, American beauty, Summer of Sam
British Film - Debt Collector, The Servant, Loneliness of Long Distance Runner
Playwright - Edward Bond, Howard brenton
Poet - Miroslav Holub, Ted Hughes Peter Porter
Drink - Gin and Tonic
Toy - Lego
Innovation - Open crotch knickers
View original
'Taxis mate -- you are a genius! *LOL*
Dan
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
Taxi Driver is awesome!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: Godot Taxis @ April 11 2008, 7:18 PM BSTSorry, Dan I like loads of things, but the best programme on British TV is never a foreign programme, because it doesn't speak accurately enough to British people.
View original
I'm afraid that I agree.
The only US programmes I can consistently enjoy are South Park and Family Guy.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
Quote: Rebecca Davies @ April 10 2008, 5:48 PM BSTUsually, I'm not the sort of person who finds killing a sick animal funny, call me a bore, but I love cats, and the idea of them dying painfully doesn't put me in an especially comical mood. HOWEVER, for some reason, I did find myself laughing. In shock mostly. They managed to portray relatable human reactions in an act and context which went so far beyond the realms of reality (for most of us), that it somehow worked for me.
Either way, it was bloody risky, surprised they let it on the air.
View original
I agree with you there Rebecca.
In Pulling, the cat had cancer & was going to die a slow lingering death. It was bleeding from its poor little, very own, arse. I do not really see it as being horrific. If it had been a healthy cat, now that is a whole different story. They should have taken it to the vets & paid the extortionate rates vets charge. (The money grabbing bastards). However this is a comedy & I found it funny. Not that a cat got bricked, but that they bricked it to end its suffering & save a few quid. No different to finishing a rabbit you have run over really.
BTW I am an animal lover. I have little pointless dogs & a cat. The cat hates my guts but I can live with that.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
The cat doesn't hate your guts. It's just jealous because you smell of fish all of the time.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, swerytd said:
Quote: Godot Taxis @ April 11 2008, 7:18 PM BSTSorry, Dan I like loads of things, but the best programme on British TV is never a foreign programme, because it doesn't speak accurately enough to British people.
View original
(Raised as Chappers referred to it.)
Wouldn't this argument imply the very worst British TV programme is better than the very best American programme?
I can't see it myself and certainly can't agree with it! Certainly the best drama written in the last ten years has all been American: The Sopranos, The Shield, Six Feet Under to name but three and is continuing with shows such as Mad Men, Dexter, and Californication. British drama just doesn't compete at all. Arguably the best and most original British thing I've seen recently was probably Life on Mars, but given the choice of watching that or the above programmes it would be bottom of the list every time.
The best thing on British TV is surely the best thing *shown* on British TV, regardless of origin. If British drama writers argued that only the British stuff can be the best stuff on TV, the British writers would never aspire to American drama standards and thus be onto a losing battle...
Of course, your argument appears to be backed up by the hour upon hour of trite, ubiquitous soap opera on our screens, but I'm an idealist...
Dan
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
What I meant is that when I select what I watch I'd rather watch something I can relate to. I don't watch crap British shows. I watch Karen Taylor, Balls of Steel and Friday night Project.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: David Chapman @ April 13 2008, 12:46 AM BSTI don't watch crap British shows. I watch Karen Taylor, Balls of Steel and Friday night Project.
View original
. . .
Quote: swerytd @ April 13 2008, 12:21 AM BSTWouldn't this argument imply the very worst British TV programme is better than the very best American programme?
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Not really, I don't think. Godot didn't state that all American TV shows are subservient to all British TV shows. But he makes a valid point. Homegrown shows have a level of familiarity and identifiability which one just can't get from overseas. There are different aspects of the general notion of identification though. I can see more to identify with in Desperate Housewives or Samantha Who? (which hasn't even made it to British TV yet) than I can with something like Coronation Street or Hollyoaks, for example. They may be set in Britain, but I'll be fucked if I can understand what they're saying half of the time.
One of my biggest problems with American drama personally (well, American TV in general) is that there are so many episodes in a season. I just don't have the willpower or strength to tune into something for half of the year, particularly when they all seem to be scheduled at times which clash with other shows, often long-running, and aren't repeated as much/at all. End.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Godot Taxis said:
Quote: Aaron @ April 13 2008, 9:49 AM BST. . .
Not really, I don't think. Godot didn't state that all American TV shows are subservient to all British TV shows. But he makes a valid point. Homegrown shows have a level of familiarity and identifiability which one just can't get from overseas. There are different aspects of the general notion of identification though. I can see more to identify with in Desperate Housewives or Samantha Who? (which hasn't even made it to British TV yet) than I can with something like Coronation Street or Hollyoaks, for example. They may be set in Britain, but I'll be fucked if I can understand what they're saying half of the time.
One of my biggest problems with American drama personally (well, American TV in general) is that there are so many episodes in a season. I just don't have the willpower or strength to tune into something for half of the year, particularly when they all seem to be scheduled at times which clash with other shows, often long-running, and aren't repeated as much/at all. End.
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I agree. The principle of the 'novel/season' - don't know how to describe it – but a show unfolding like a novel over many, many weeks, with many episodes being incomplete and focussing on peripheral characters or events (supposedly like a novel) was devised to satisfy advertisers, not programme makers or audiences. They basically don't want you to touch that dial - ever. I don't blame them, but I can't acquiesce.
I also agree about shows like Hollyoaks and Corrie - they don't speak to me at all - but neither does the sopranos or Lost.
Quote: swerytd @ April 13 2008, 12:21 AM BST
I can't see it myself and certainly can't agree with it! Certainly the best drama written in the last ten years has all been American: The Sopranos, The Shield, Six Feet Under to name but three and is continuing with shows such as Mad Men, Dexter, and Californication. British drama just doesn't compete at all. Arguably the best and most original British thing I've seen recently was probably Life on Mars, but given the choice of watching that or the above programmes it would be bottom of the list every time.
Dan
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I don't agree with your comment that the best drama of the last ten years has been American at all. I haven't seen all of the shows you mention, but i have seen Sopranos, Six Feet Under and Mad Men. The Sopranos is marred for me by being principally about a thug, adulterer, murder and criminal. I don't believe the life of such a person should be celebrated. Six Feet Under was well made, but was undeniably walking on the grave of American Beauty and I stopped watching it because I was beginning to lose respect for Alan Ball, as it seemed he had so little to say. Mad Men is an attractive show, but even the episode about Don's son wasn't really very deep. It's essentially a style exercise. The gloss on the terrorism of the Stern Gang in the Babylon episode was shameful, even for out-of-touch New Yorkers, as was the reference to Israel 'also containing Arabs'!
I think 'Talk To Me' by Danny Brocklehurst which was shown last year was better than any of the shows you mentioned, and mercifully it was gone after four, sparkling, jaunty, emotionally drenching episodes. I also liked both series of The Street, Clocking Off and Conviction.
I have nothing against American drama. My girlfriend is American and it is an exciting place. I find much of the TV slick but shallow, and we know that there are far more no-go issues in their broadcasting than ours. British TV is frequently beneath toilet in quality, but much of the best stuff is just unknown, because it isn't celebrated in papers and journals like the yank stuff. Series four of Murphy's law is a case in point.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
My opinion is that a foreign programme can be the best on british TV as a good sitcom (such as Arrested Development, 30 Rock, Friends, Curb) is about people and characters that exist everywhere in situations that reveal common human frailties. OK the technicalities like phrases, locations, subjects might differ but usually you can relate to it without being hand-held by making it British.
I think, as a nation, we are good like that as we are happy to show US sitcoms without feeling the to need to make our own. Unfortunately, it doesn't work the other way round as the US try and remake everything.
Its not my favourite sitcom, but the most common answer I get when I ask British people to name their favourite sitcom is Seinfeld. So I guess that proves that a foreign programme can be rated the best here.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
After last weeks disgraceful celebration of cat killing as entertainment, last nights episode was a welcome return to form. And is it just me, or do cockloleeze actually sound like quite a good business idea?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
Surely they already exist? Charley?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
Quote: ContainsNuts @ April 14 2008, 11:10 AM BSTSurely they already exist? Charley?
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I have never had one in my mouth.
Maybe in some Ann Summers magazine they have them.
It was hilarious watching those geezers suck on them. I was shocked the cafe owner did'nt enjoy it. I thought he was into cock.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: ContainsNuts @ April 14 2008, 9:04 AM BSTIts not my favourite sitcom, but the most common answer I get when I ask British people to name their favourite sitcom is Seinfeld. So I guess that proves that a foreign programme can be rated the best here.
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I don't think that's really fair, as it depends heavily on what kinds of people you're asking.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: Godot Taxis @ April 14 2008, 2:31 AM BST
I stopped watching it because I was beginning to lose respect for Alan Ball, as it seemed he had so little to say.
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When was he in an American drama?
I agree with Aaron though. They do go on for soooooooooo long. I started watching Lost but lost interest.
I must admit though that I like Desperate Housewives although I've nor seen any of the latest SERIES.
Anyway - how has this developed when it started off about one of the best new British sitcoms on TV at the moment?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
Quote: Aaron @ April 14 2008, 9:37 PM BSTI don't think that's really fair, as it depends heavily on what kinds of people you're asking.
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I wasn't saying that a foreign programme IS the best on British TV, I was saying it is possible it can be, because to a lot of the people I speak to it is. A lot of people also say Friends and Fraiser too. Didn't Fraiser win a C4 sitcom poll in this country?
My favourite sitcoms of the past are pretty much all British but at the moment I'm enjoying more US stuff like 30 Rock, Arrested Dev., Family Guy, FOTC, The Office US.
I've never got into any of the US 24 series dramas, just because I know I'd lose half my life to watching them all.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, swerytd said:
Quote: ContainsNuts @ April 15 2008, 8:11 AM BSTI wasn't saying that a foreign programme IS the best on British TV, I was saying it is possible it can be.
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This is the point I was making.
Dan
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Frasier won a "comedian's choice", taking in the opinions of comics on both sides of the pond, if I recall correctly.
And yes, exactly my problem with those dramas. I don't want to get sucked in for that amount of time. 8 weeks is about as much as I can handle.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Quote: Mark @ April 6 2008, 10:32 PM BSTI expect they'll get a few people who cant seperate fact from fiction ringing up tomorrow to complain about the way Karen and Louise put that cat down!
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The BBC did in the end get lots of complains about this. So many they had to issue a statement. I can't take credit for spotting this, but here is how it ends...
"We don't believe this scene could be seen to condone putting an animal down in this way, as is evidenced by the plan going so catastrophically wrong."
Bad choice of words!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Oliver said:
Quote: Mark @ April 21 2008, 8:40 PM BSTThe BBC did in the end get lots of complains about this. So many they had to issue a statement. I can't take credit for spotting this, but here is how it ends...
"We don't believe this scene could be seen to condone putting an animal down in this way, as is evidenced by the plan going so catastrophically wrong."
Bad choice of words!
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THIS IS SO FUCKING FUNNY, I ACTUALLY LIKE THE BBC MORE NOW
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Winterlight said:
I watched about 5 minutes of Pulling last night. I didn't find it funny. And before you say anything, 5 minutes is more than enough to judge if a show is funny or not!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, swerytd said:
Just watched this episode last night and it occurred to me that Donna is one of the most thoroughly dislikeable characters on TV ever! I hate her on a par with Jill in Nighty, Night. At least Jill was honest in her motives. Donna doesn't seem to know and fucking annoys me immensely. I have my suspicions this makes her a good character...
Dan
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
I think Jill from Nighty Night was far more of a pantomime character, whereas with Donna there's something believable. She is lazy and selfish, but I personally think she has a certain charm. And least she wasn't involved in the cat killing.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, patiowhore said:
What I'm getting from Donna this series, is that she's probably always thought she was a level better than those around her. When she split up with Carl in the first series; she assumed she'd be cutting herself free from this big weight, thought she'd really blossom and find something better. But now, in the second series, I think she's seeing that life isn't all that great, and perhaps the best thing to do a lot of the time is take what you can get. She might have always wondered if she'd have been better off away from Carl if she'd have stuck with him, but now she's probably thinking along the lines of...better off being stuck in a boring relationship with someone you can only half stand, then being left single for the rest of your life.
She thought she'd be off enjoying the high life, but in fact she's worse off than she ever was. On the surface, Karen and Louise might not seem like they're doing much better than Donna, but unlike Donna I think the other two don't particularly give too much thought to their lives. Okay, Louise has tried to better herself a little bit of late with those cock lollies, lol, but she does have that child like view of things, and seems to just go from one thing to the next, she doesn't really seem too fixated on the long term. Same with Karen really; she'd be perfectly happy with one night stands and hangovers for the rest of her life. Donna might have initially saw the appeal of that kind of lifestyle, but realized pretty early on it wasn't for her, it wouldn't take her where she wanted to go.
She does often come across as quite a mean spirited character though. For much of the second series she has been quite spiteful to Carl, trying to put him down to make herself feel better, perhaps to try and convince herself she's better off without him. But I do feel sorry for Donna, you really get that sense of being stuck in a rut with nowhere to go. I think that's made worse by the fact she's haunted by the fact she threw away the oppurtunity for some sort of future with Carl that may not have been ideal, but would have been good enough; and I think "good enough" is something Donna would gladly accept now.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
Quote: patiowhore @ April 25 2008, 6:24 AM BSTWhat I'm getting from Donna this series, is that she's probably always thought she was a level better than those around her. When she split up with Carl in the first series; she assumed she'd be cutting herself free from this big weight, thought she'd really blossom and find something better. But now, in the second series, I think she's seeing that life isn't all that great, and perhaps the best thing to do a lot of the time is take what you can get. She might have always wondered if she'd have been better off away from Carl if she'd have stuck with him, but now she's probably thinking along the lines of...better off being stuck in a boring relationship with someone you can only half stand, then being left single for the rest of your life.
She thought she'd be off enjoying the high life, but in fact she's worse off than she ever was. On the surface, Karen and Louise might not seem like they're doing much better than Donna, but unlike Donna I think the other two don't particularly give too much thought to their lives. Okay, Louise has tried to better herself a little bit of late with those cock lollies, lol, but she does have that child like view of things, and seems to just go from one thing to the next, she doesn't really seem too fixated on the long term. Same with Karen really; she'd be perfectly happy with one night stands and hangovers for the rest of her life. Donna might have initially saw the appeal of that kind of lifestyle, but realized pretty early on it wasn't for her, it wouldn't take her where she wanted to go.
She does often come across as quite a mean spirited character though. For much of the second series she has been quite spiteful to Carl, trying to put him down to make herself feel better, perhaps to try and convince herself she's better off without him. But I do feel sorry for Donna, you really get that sense of being stuck in a rut with nowhere to go. I think that's made worse by the fact she's haunted by the fact she threw away the oppurtunity for some sort of future with Carl that may not have been ideal, but would have been good enough; and I think "good enough" is something Donna would gladly accept now.
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I think this is a good point, well argued. And I think it's probably the reason why Pulling, enjoyable though it is, will never be anything other than a cult comedy. Interestingly, the character Sharon Horgan played in that Channel 5 comedy was similarly blinkered and self-obsessed, so I'm wondering if this is the only character Horgan can play?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, swerytd said:
Are you suggesting she's playing herself, maybe, subconsciously at least?
I really don't like the Donna character. (Though this looks like it's a personal view I think). I don't mean I don't want her in it, but I find myself siding/feeling sorry for every single person she's dealing with (including Karen, somewhat surprisingly!).
I think Karen has more depth than suggested. She'll probably have an 'awakening' at some point. Sooner rather than later, I hope, cos the 'slag' routine is getting a bit long in the tooth now. I do prefer her as a character though.
I like Louise. She is obviously the least consequential/most whimsical character in there but that means she gets all the throwaway storylines whilst Donna keeps going on and on and on (and on...) about her life.
Dan
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Yes, good point patiowhore.
I think its the intention of the writers that we're supposed to dislike Donna now.
From what I understand they're slowing building towards quite a big and perhaps un-expected final scene in the last episode of this series (but here's hoping there's another series!)
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Griff said:
Quote:Interestingly, the character Sharon Horgan played in that Channel 5 comedy was similarly blinkered and self-obsessed, so I'm wondering if this is the only character Horgan can play?
She also played Rob Brydon's long-suffering assistant on Annually Retentive (which I thought was great) where I felt she was quite a sympathetic character, especially in the second series when the "Rob Brydon" character was totally losing it and needed her to come back to help him.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
I never got around to watching the second series! Damn!
Must make myself a list of 'shows to watch soon, you lazy bitch'.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, swerytd said:
Quote: Aaron @ April 25 2008, 1:39 PM BSTI never got around to watching the second series! Damn!
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First ep, second series is awesome! Really top quality sitcom in my view. Rest was good but didn't live up to that one.
Dan
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, patiowhore said:
Have to say, really enjoyed Pulling as a whole. I'm hoping for a third series, but I can see how they might want to leave it the way they did. Karen having her realization, sat alone in a pub in the middle of the afternoon; and Donna having to start over yet again because she couldn't swallow her pride. I suppose, if you're looking at the the series as a whole, it might indeed be a fitting end to the series.
Agree that the first ep of the series was rather good. Overall I think it's been quite strong actually, although there was one episode (think it might have been the second or third one) that I thought just stood out as being quite weak , the one when Donna's old friend turned up with Donna pulling out all the stops to impress.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
I've really enjoyed the second series. My one small complaint is that at times it felt like the BBC's answer to Peep Show, which meant it lacked the originality of a truly great sitcom. I'd love a third series, though, and feel there's bags of places the characters can go.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, patiowhore said:
I don't know whether I'd compare it to Peep Show, but I definately have to agree that it lacks something. It doesn't have all that much in the way of an original personality. It's a great show, but yeah; it does seem to be lacking a certain something. Still, I can't put it down to words so it can't be hanging too heavy over the show.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rebecca Davies said:
I thought the last episode of the second series was the funniest episode yet. Has me in hysterics, and nothing seems to do that these days. When he bought Karen a healthy lunch in the staff room! I'm not even sure why it was funny, it was that good!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
Agreed Rebecca.
Karen is one of my Fav female Characters. She is fab.