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Jam and Jerusalem
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Blenkinsop said:
One doesn't want to be churlish but I have now watched for 20 minutes and all I can find to say in a positive vein is that the music isn't too bad.
Has anybody spotted anything funny yet?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Wow.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Blenkinsop said:
Quote: Aaron @ November 24, 2006, 9:20 PMWow.
View original
Wow good or wow bad?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Bad.
Very, very bad.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Blenkinsop said:
I have to ask that if this had been submitted on spec from an unknown writer and not Jennifer Saunders, would it have even made it to the possibles pile let alone the let's do it pile?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Croydesponger said:
Another 'nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!'
Perhaps I should justify that but I've got more important things to do
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Blenkinsop @ November 24, 2006, 9:43 PMI have to ask that if this had been submitted on spec from an unknown writer and not Dawn French, would it have even made it to the possibles pile let alone the let's do it pile?
View original
It would not have stood a fucking chance.
Sigh.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Badge said:
I turned over and saw a minute of this - expecting it to be better than I expected, if you know what I mean? I mean, the previews were good, but I had expected it to be shite, cos I don't get the mass appeal of Ab Fab or French & Saunders at all. Anyway, the minute I saw played like a VERY BAD F&S sketch. Some great actors in it, but not for me.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Blenkinsop said:
Glad this wasn't just me.
I am truly astounded. Who in the name of Christ is in charge of comedy at the Beeb these days? 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Don't know, but they need to be fired.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Blenkinsop said:
On a more serious note. Does this not prove that just because somebody is a great comedy actress it does not necessarily follow that they will be a good writer?
The golden age of comedy did not have writers performing their own work in sitcom. They were written for quality actors by quality writers. Of course there were some exceptions; John Cleese with Fawlty but they were the exceptions that proved the rule.
Jennifer Saunders can write sketches, I seem to remember, and I liked Ab Fab for the first couple of series, but this extended piece was dire. It seemed to have no real story or direction. it appeared to try and rely on nothing more than the thinnest of plots, a top flight cast and the good will of a forgiving public.
There is not one funny line or sequence that I can remember. Joanna Lumley dressed up as a slightly weird character is not in itself funny. For it to have been funny it would have required some funny lines or situations. There were none of these.
If I'm being honest I feel quite insulted that this was dished up for me as something worth looking at.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Couldn't agree more. It was a shoddy attempt, at best. The premise showed some promise, and even some of the situations presented to us, but there were no laughs. At all.
One can only hope that it will improve next week, but I personally won't be putting any bets on it. Like almost everything on at the moment, poor poor poor.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jay72 said:
Wow!
I missed it cause I was out. I'm really intrigued by the reaction. In the cold light of day, was it really THAT bad?
Have to say though that I generally avoid anything French and Saunders are involved in. Never find them funny.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick said:
Watching this show last night it struck me that I don't think that I've ever seen a sitcom try to introduce so many characters in its first episode. I ended up not knowing anything about any of them and they were nothing more than caricatures. The lack of humour was a big problem as well of course.
I don't think it's too surprising that the show was commissioned though. Jennifer Saunders is a successful sitcom writer and it's only natural that the BBC would put their faith in her and that cast. Tghis has been happening for decades of course. David Nobbs followed Perrin by writing one of the biggest flops of all time.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Baumski said:
The only time I can honestly say that I really found French and Saunders funny was back in the 70's when they were starting out in the Comic Strip - the show that came before the tv programme. Happy times. Not only was Dawn French half the woman she is now but she was also twice as funny.
Judging by the posts so far it seems that I've not missed out on anything in particular. It's a shame because these girls were good once and somewhere along the way they stopped caring - or at least that's the way it seems to me. What a shame.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick said:
I did notice that a few people on IMDB said that they did enjoy the first show. Maybe if you were already a big fan of their work it didn't seem so bad.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Britcom Barry said:
I don’t really think it was as bad as others are making out but will reserve judgement until I’ve seen the whole series and perhaps re-watched it to make sure, I think it’s ridiculous to condemn a sit-com after just one episode let alone the first 20 minutes
Judging by the title it about the W.I. something we only got to in the last 5 minutes, other I’ve spoken to like it, my understanding is this was made as a pilot, I wonder how many of the very impressive cast will stick around for the rest of the episodes
Barry
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Blenkinsop said:
Hi Barry
I know what you mean about giving something time and it's a fair point, but I just felt that after the endless trailing we'd endured all week and the quality of cast and writer that I might have expected to laugh once or twice.
I'm not the sort to give it the old "Think you're funny? Go on then make me laugh then!" routine. Indeed my tastes would be considered fairly mainstream.
I will give this another try next week if I'm in but honestly have to say that on the strength of the first slice then I'm not holding out a lot of hope.
I have been wrong in the past and had to eat my words on "Not Going Out" but this looks to be very poor to me. The show would need a total change in style, content and performances from some of the cast to win me over.
But of course: "Who the f**k am I?"
Looking round the 'net I can't see a whole heap of support for it either, although newspaper reviews seem to have been more balanced..
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charlie Adams said:
I don't like to say something is bad after just one episode and I especially don't like to say this was dreadful when I didn't stay with it to the end. But this was dreadfully bad. Trouble is, I like nice laughs in sitcoms, I like to see a story develop and I want to like the characters so this obviously wasn't written for me. I'm sure I miss a lot of good stuff when after a minute or so I make my mind up and decide a particular show is not for me, but it's a time thing. I haven't got time to watch all the rubbish the tv companies put out; I watch some of it but I can't watch it all.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, steve by any other name said:
Blimey. I was on the site yesterday (briefly) and couldn't believe there were no active threads about J&J. Before I started my own I checked and it seems that everyone needed to get things off their chest as soon as possible. Not sure that I can add much really. I didn't think it was awful, but it was very dissapointing, mainly because of the cast, I think.
I've never thought French and Saunders were that funny, except maybe in the Comic Strip but I can't really remember and that may even be through rose tinted specs. I did like some of the early Ab Fab though.
I do wonder if this is truly a sit com, as it seems to be over run with sits and really lacking in com. Perhaps it's more of a comedy drama. There was an interview with JS in the Radio Times last week and she says, at the read through... 'I could see Sue thinking: "Oh bloody hell, what have I let myself in for?"'. Well quite.
It reminded me a bit of the first series of Blackadder, where there was a large and well known cast, huge interior sets and lots of exterior footage too. Whilst I liked this series, I think more than most, series two, with a handful of charaters in essentially either Blackadders front room or the Queens thrown room, worked significantly better.
Back to J&J, I will tune in this week as, frankly, there is nothing else on if you can't abide reality TV or heavy going programmes on the history of art.
I didn't laugh anywhere near as much in half an hour of J&J as I did at University Challange last night when one of the answers was 'Great Tits'. Superb! (If childish).
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
A quote from Ally Ross in the Sun:
Quote:Friday night BBC screens Jennifer Saunders' 'comedy' Jam and Jerusalem for the first time. First thing Monday evening? Michael Grade quits as chairman of the BBC. You think that's a coincidence?!?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Never heard the expression "first thing x-day evening" before, but otherwise the point stands.
I can now say, without a shade of doubt in my mind, that anything which Jennifer Saunders may have "had", she certainly does not now. This show is less funny than being told that that pain is due to a tumor the size of a cherry tomato in your urethra.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Britcom Barry said:
OK this didn’t have me rolling about with laughter, I still think that once it had time to bed in it will be ok, it does feel a bit muddled with too many characters not doing a lot.
One thing that is puzzling, why is it on so late I didn’t notice any bad language it’s seem good family viewing perhaps more for the mum’s than the kids.
It might just surprise you all
Barry
PS can someone tell what the woman playing the grief counsellor has been in before?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
The completely useless, grief-striken one? If so, she's been in quite a few things, but notably of late starred opposite Michelle Gomez in Feel the Force.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Britcom Barry said:
Rosie Cavaliero
That’s Right she was also in Eyes down which would have been a good series if it wasn’t for Paul O’Grady who couldn’t act to save his life.
Barry
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Ah yes, that's the other one. 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Dawn French does her side-splitting West Country accent whilst wearing a funny wig. My God, it's truly fucking dreadful.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, bob bob said:
I live in north tawton where jam and jerusalem is filmed and the first episode was a pilot and was supposed to be 1 hour long, but they had to cut it to an hour. Also there is a different director for the other episodes so it probably will get better.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Baumski said:
What a shame they didn't implement a proper cut by cutting an hour and leaving it at that.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Haha, nicely done Baumski!
Anyway, bob bob, interesting to hear that. I will, I expect, probably keep on watching, but I'm not expecting much.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jay72 said:
Quote: Wheeler @ December 2, 2006, 10:48 AMDawn French does her side-splitting West Country accent whilst wearing a funny wig. My God, it's truly fucking dreadful.
View original
Wow! I may have to tune in now just to see that alone. It sounds fantastic! I'm obviously missing out.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
Quote: Aaron @ December 3, 2006, 12:53 PMI will, I expect, probably keep on watching, but I'm not expecting much.
View original
Why, Aaron, WHY???
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
CCS.
Car Crash Syndrome.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Wheeler said:
One episode was enough for me. Life's too short to waste it on Dawn French in a comedy wig and Jennifer Saunders living off past successes.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Britcom Barry said:
Did anyone else catch Jennifer Saunders on this morning talking about Jam and Jerusalem I only got a bit of it but she said it was inspired by the film Calendar Girls and was a sort of female version of last of the summer wine, she also has another series in production where she play a Trisha style talk show host.
Barry
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jay72 said:
Quote: Britcom Barry @ December 6, 2006, 9:47 PMDid anyone else catch Jennifer Saunders on this morning talking about Jam and Jerusalem....she also has another series in production where she play a Trisha style talk show host.
Barry
View original
Oh God, I hope you are joking!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
*shakes head in despair*
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Baumski said:
'Oh God, I hope you are joking!
Yes, Yes - that's the working title and I kid you not, in the words of Private Fraser from Dads Army "We're all fucking doomed!"
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, JohnnyD said:
Well, I find J&J quite amusing.
The line in the first episode about Sting and his Lute was a joy.
Hypercriticism seems to abound here. Beware the writer scorned?
I think JS has just the look and manner to do a wonderful Trisha takeoff. So I, for one, look forward to it.
(Anyone hear the excellent Radio 4 "Radio Phone-in Show" takeoff on Weds 6:30?)
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Oh no, many of us here may be writers (or budding), but it's nothing to do with that (although I suspect it makes it all the more bitter for some). In fact, you are the first and only person I've heard say anything positive about it. Anywhere.
But fair enough. Got to be at least one person for everything!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, steve by any other name said:
Quote: Johnny Dee @ December 7, 2006, 8:36 AM
(Anyone hear the excellent Radio 4 "Radio Phone-in Show" takeoff on Weds 6:30?)
View original
I caught the last 10 minutes or so and was already being irritated by it at the end. Just seemed to be recycling the same joke. Although it was hearing the word 'mindge' at 6.50 on radio 4 that made me take notice. And laugh, it was unexpected. The rest was a dissapointment. Can't see how they can drag it out into a series.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Blenkinsop said:
I watched Ep 3 tonight and I am worried.
Am I going mad but wasn't this trailed as a comedy? It was wasn't it?
Is a comedy not supposed to have jokes or make people laugh? The only concession to the genre was one brief piece of slap-stick where a vicar fell out of a boat and into a pond and that wasn't even funny. It had a predictability factor of 10 where 10 is very predictable indeed.
It seems messy, cluttered, busy, muddled and achingly un-funny. Maybe it's reverse psychology and I should be pissing myself but I'm afraid that it is quite the most puzzling thing I've ever watched on telly. It is impossible to categorize but it is also dreadful.
Bizarre!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Baumski said:
What they need to do is put a cat in the passenger seat of a car......
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Matthew Stott said:
Er, sorry, but I just watched an epsiode for the first time last night and thought (GULP) it was all right. Im truely sorry . . . Not great, but not,I think, the piece of crap others have said. Though Maybe the first two were worse than last nights. Anyway, I thought it was Ok. Please dont kill me, perhaps Ive just momentarilly lost my tiny mind . . .
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Quote: Baumski @ December 9, 2006, 9:43 AMWhat they need to do is put a cat in the passenger seat of a car......
View original
Ha ha - very good - brilliant reference Baumski.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Moxy Poron said:
well...according to imdb there's going to be some sort of spin off or follow up.
"Untitled Jennifer Saunders/Joanna Lumley Project" (2007) [TV-Series]
Genre: Comedy
Plot Outline: The comical misadventures of friends involved with a women's club. Based on the BBC series "Jam and Jerusalem".
Series Credited cast:
Dawn French
Joanna Lumley
Jennifer Saunders
And another show by jennifer saunders, and from what ive read about it, darker than her other comedies:
The Vivienne Vyle Show: written by Jennifer Saunders and Dr Tanya Byron (Little Angels), The Vivienne Vyle Show is Britain's most loved, talked about live therapy show where the British public air their problems and worries.
Played by Jennifer Saunders, Vivienne Vyle is the show's host who is not afraid to say exactly what she thinks.
A BBC comedy production, produced by Jo Sargent.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, steve by any other name said:
I watched the last episode, what are we up to now, 4, and thought it was quite touching at times. It wasn't however, funny. So it is probably failing it's remit.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Badge said:
I don't watch it so what do I know? But they had the audacity to include the lamest dogging "gag" in a trailer for the last episode. If that is the kind of stuff that gets people watching then good luck to them.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
For some reason, I watched (again) on Friday night, and there was one good bit. I loved seeing Sue's character rip her stupid, feckless hippie-daughter apart. Absolutely brilliant.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, steve by any other name said:
That was satisfying actually.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Raitha Tappens said:
I live in the U.S., and I have to say that I think Saunders is brilliant. I also think that J & J is a refreshing spin on the usual canned idea of a sitcom. The characters are quietly, yet richly woven. It's got laughs, yet a believable ring of the human -- too often missing in more standard fare. Bravo, Jennifer for a charming, subtle, and amusing reflection of not only small town life, but how women dance with, around, and for one another.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Hi Raitha - welcome and thanks for sharing your view.
I guess that J&J would look fairly fresh in America when compared to the studio based setup that is common in the US.
We have perhaps been a little un-fair on it over here (I must admit I've still been watching as it's not terrible, it just doesn't make me laugh out loud) however, as most of our modern sitcoms are set in a modern, 'believable' dimension, it doesn't seem that good here when compared to other similar homely sitcoms.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Matthew Stott said:
Still enjoying this rich, warm show. And it does make me laugh out loud at times.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
It's not so bad. It's cosy. If not exactly hilarious.
Does the annoying counsellor woman remind anyone else of Emma Kennedy?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yes, they're very similar.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Britcom Barry said:
I see a few people are warming to this “show” (oops nearly put comedy)
It has a “nice” feel to it but is confused and not very funny, but I like the way Dawn French’s part is developing I don’t think I will even be a big fan but I can see a section of the population liking it.
Wasn’t David Mitchell suppose to be starring in this he’s been in it for all of two minutes so far
Barry
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
I know! That's been a bit disappointing.
I believe I saw him dressed as a dame in their panto though...
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, DM84 said:
I avoided watching this after reading bad reviews everywhere, but I tuned in to the last episode just after Christmas (the panto episode) and loved it! I hate comedies that are gag,gag,gag and have little substance, but I thought this had some nice characterization. Best line, if I remember it correctly, was Doreen Mantle's character, who is eating her way through a large box of Family Circle and says 'do you mind if I stick my finger in the bottom for a chocolate ring?' 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Lady Campbell said:
I thought it was ok - not great - but watchable. Sue Johnston was on This Morning today and said apparently it's been commissioned for a second series so we haven't seen the back of it yet.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Dear God. More proof that the industry will accept any old shit from 'proven' writers.
Oh well.
I suppose there are some people who liked it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Dave said:
Saw ten minutes. Boring. Unfunny. Watched My Family instead.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, jason jackson said:
Well, being from the States, maybe you won't take my reply for much, but...I just see it as more subtle and less slapstick than Saunders usually does. It can be a bit slow, but the zingers are still there. It seems to be more storybook and less in your face kind of humour (humour)! Let me know what you think.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Hi jason - welcome to the site. Your opinion is more than welcome - its always interesting to get the overseas take on the British comedies.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Baumski said:
Absolutely and I'd just like to add that no matter where you're from in the world, Jam and Jerusalem is shit in any language.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SaundyBabe said:
Jennifer Saunders said this wasn't a comedy, so don't judge it as one. You all watched it thinking you'd see AbFab 2 or something. I watched it knowing what to expect and loved it. The woman is filled with talent.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
That's assuming that we liked Ab Fab. 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SaundyBabe said:
LOL
well if you did good for you, if you didn't I'm sorry (I thought it was excellent)
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
You're not really Jennifer Saunders in disguise are you? Either that or some obsessive weirdo who actually finds her stuff funny and not just all shouty. Sorry Adrian.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SaundyBabe said:
No I'm not jennifer and no I'm not a weirdo and yes I do find her stuff funny and feel sorry for those who don't.
Adrian should kick your butt instead of forgiving you 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
He'd probably blow me up with a hand grenade.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SaundyBabe said:
that would do too
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Come now children, play nicely!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Baumski said:
Dear Aaron, Saundybabe and David. I'm getting a real sense of a menage a trois here.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
A shocking accusation.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Baumski said:
Me thinks you protest too much.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SaundyBabe said:
Quote: Baumski @ March 25, 2007, 9:48 AMDear Aaron, Saundybabe and David. I'm getting a real sense of a menage a trois here.
View original
muharhar, care to join?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
:o
... Actually, that's too suggestive.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Well there was no-one else to play with. They'd all gone to bed and left us alone. Dangerous thing to do.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David H said:
You have got to be joking! The new series starts on New Year's Day!
It's not just football teams who have the wrong people at the top. This is diabolical decision making.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
It is total bollocks - but it does have a great cast. Shame it's not round Jennifer Saunders neck.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jake How said:
I never really watched this show.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: jake how @ December 31, 2007, 3:29 PMI never really watched this show.
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Well don't bother wasting your time then. It just isn't funny or clever.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jake How said:
Ok.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Awful. Mildly entertaining at best. How this got commissioned for a first series is beyond me, let alone a second. Seriously, really poor. Jennifer Saunders proves herself beyond doubt to be a washed-up, talentless, comedy has-been.
Please BBC, no more. Spend my licence fee on something worthwhile.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: Aaron @ January 1, 2008, 11:09 PMAwful. Mildly entertaining at best. How this got commissioned for a first series is beyond me, let alone a second. Seriously, really poor. Jennifer Saunders proves herself beyond doubt to be a washed-up, talentless, comedy has-been.
Please BBC, no more. Spend my licence fee on something worthwhile.
View original
And just think how much it must cost us with that cast.
I think there should be questions asked in da House.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rustle T Davis said:
I watched two episodes of the first series and Dawn French's character was the only thing I found amusing.
I couldn't believe they comissioned another series, so I watched the first episode, just in case I missed something the first time around. I didn't. Pants.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Some yank who's never posted on this site sent me the following PM.
"I wrote a sit-com - sent first episode to the BBC but unfortunately rejected. Subject is a pair of middle-aged failed songwriters - they say write what you know". This is one of my quotes.
"Middle-aged failed = you.
Middle-aged hugely successful = Jennifer Saunders.
'nuf said. "
I don't quite know what he's getting at. Sure I've not had any success yet but really that is a load of crap.
I don't find J & J funny and I really don't know how she gets away with it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
That makes no sense at all. I'm not sure who said what in the PM(s). Anyway.
Best Only good thing about tonight's J&J (apart from it ended) was that it had a kitty in it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: David Chapman @ January 4, 2008, 9:15 PM
"I wrote a sit-com - sent first episode to the BBC but unfortunately rejected. Subject is a pair of middle-aged failed songwriters - they say write what you know".
View original
This was one of my posts from long ago.
Quote: David Chapman @ January 4, 2008, 9:15 PM
"Middle-aged failed = you.
Middle-aged hugely successful = Jennifer Saunders.
'nuf said. "
View original
And this was his witty response.
She may be succesful but it doesn't make it good.
Sorry - this sounds terribly whingey doesn't it. Oh well!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Matthew Stott said:
I actually quite enjoy Jam and Jerusalem. Dont hurt me. (whimpers)
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Matthew, you're quite clearly insane of Spears-proportions.
David, the guy's making a really weird point. If she was writing about successful people, his argument might actually make sense.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Matthew Stott said:
Quote: Aaron @ January 4, 2008, 10:18 PMMatthew, you're quite clearly insane of Spears-proportions.
View original
True, I already have officials trying to take away my children; and i dont even have any.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: Matthew Stott @ January 4, 2008, 10:22 PMTrue, I already have officials trying to take away my children; and i dont even have any.
View original
That must be quite painful then.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
I missed a kitty?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yep, a nice fluffy kitty.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Eat_My_Shirts said:
I hate this programme so much. I'm getting really angry watching it now, and I want to switch over but I'm too angry to do so The women in it are so annoying. Especially Sue Johnston and that one from Father Ted.
Also, how dare they use a Kinks song as their theme tune.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
I think it's just a waste of comic acting talent.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
I feel weird inside. I actually laughed a couple of times at this week's episode. o_O
Nevertheless, on the whole, it's just not funny. Out of 9 episodes broadcast to date, I should have laughed more than the two or three times I have done so. I'll admit I've found this and the previous episode (but not episode 1 or series 1) strangely watchable, but this is meant to be a sitcom. It's just not good enough, and I want to punch pretty much every one of the characters in the head.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Sylvia said:
Come on, it's getting better. I thought the first series was dire and a waste of the great talent on screen, but this series is a bit funnier.
Anything's better than that complete waste of talent My Family
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
I don't mind it (when I do actually watch it).
I like the mood of it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Sylvia @ January 11, 2008, 10:24 PMAnything's better than that complete waste of talent My Family
View original
And now your opinion is null and void.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, GUY PRESS said:
I have been pleasantly surprised that this comedy is slowly turning a corner....... hopefully. The first series was extremely poor but it's starting to show glimmers of hope.
One thing from last night is Jennifer Saunders keeps the best one liners.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yes, I noticed that. Chocolate starfish, etc.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ian_w said:
To be fair I don't think it was intended to be a rip-roaring gag fest (warning, don't google that phrase!).
Call it, I don't know, 'ambient' comedy? Yeah I like that - it's a nice euphemism.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Not bad, not bad indeed! After series one, I'd have more opted for "bag of shit" than "ambient comedy", but yes, I guess that's a good description! Very light, slightly comic drama.
Really doesn't deserve the sitcom title though. Awful. Trade Descriptions, I reckon!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ceel said:
I look forward to each Friday to see the next episode and there are an awful lot of other people like me who maybe haven't found this site??
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Hi Ceel, welcome to the site. Do you actually find Jam & Jerusalem funny, or just enjoyable, watchable, whatever? 'Cos I'm finding it to be the latter, with an occasional good line or exchange, but the sitcom labelling just seems insulting IMO.
"I'm meant to have five fruits a day, yes?"
"Yes."
"And is apples a fruit?"
"Yes."
"So is cider apples?"
I'm sure that's an excuse quite a few people would like to use!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Matthew Stott said:
I actually do find it quite funny, not hilarious but a good watch with good characters.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ceel said:
My sentiments are the same as Matthew Stott.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
I'm sorry Ceel - and welcome. (You're not JS in disguise are you?)
Basically it's just like a soap - story lines with very small bits of humour thrown in. It can't call itself a sitcom.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ceel said:
No, I am not JS and thanks for the welcome but not quite sure why you are sorry. Jam and Jerusalem is not Phil Silvers, I agree. It is all filmed and not in a studio with an audience, which gives it a different feel. I supect some of the WI scenes done with a studio audience might seem more focused and like a standard sitcom; howevver, I enjoy it's freewheeling format. Maybe it should be banished from this site!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, RubyMae - Glamourous Snowdrop at large. said:
I really enjoy it actually. Being a Devonshire Scone myself, i get the humour a lot more and there are a lot of small towns and villages just like it and the WI do play a huge role in most of them. Despite living in one of the "Cities" now, I did live in a small town before and I have met people just like the charecters on the show. I can see a lot of my Mum actually in the Maggie Steed Character!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
It just isn't funny and has a cast that is frankly wasted.
It's almost like JS has said to all her mates "I've written this TV show. Do you want to be in it?" and then dozens of them turned up and she had to write them some lines.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, RubyMae - Glamourous Snowdrop at large. said:
I do think it is a little aimed and a certain audience. Sometimes I will get a joke that I know someone who may have lived all their life in London won't.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ceel said:
I have family in the area and spend a lot of time there and JS's observation of many aspects of life there today is very accurate and hilarious, if not universal. Maybe it's docu-sitcom
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: Ceel @ January 20, 2008, 8:19 PM
Maybe it's docu-sitcom
View original
Maybe it's just docu-sit!
I managed to stop myself adding the "h".
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, The Cat said:
8 pages and it's only really the same people posting over and over and over again. If people don't like the show then why, oh why do you seem to have a sadistic behaviour in watching it every week religiously? Admit that you like it in some way, despite that you may not find it funny.
Obviously desensitising yourself from comedy does not help yourself and trying to find the perfect comedy will become a harder and harder feat. Accept the show for what it is, instead of tearing it apart layer by layer. And if you think you can do better then what the writers have produced, then get off your backsides and produce something that you and others on this site may enjoy.
Meanwhile, I do enjoy the show. Especially from it's quirky laugh out loud humour to it's on going likeable characters set in a small rural village life. It's a shame I don't get to watch it as often as I would like to, due to working long hours but I hope they continue into another series as well.
Time for the backlash... I probably wont actually get the read it as I only stumbled across this website looking at the episode guide.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
It's grown on me. I'm not a huge fan, and I don't for a moment believe that it should be labelled as a "sitcom", but I've been finding it reasonably easy viewing this series.
It's kind of ... Well I don't know really. I can't really think of a genre for it. It's too light-hearted to be a drama in any real since of the word I think, but I don't consider there to be enough humour (failed or realised) to be classed as a sitcom either. Very light-hearted comdram, maybe?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Sean Prower said:
I enjoyed the final episode. A happy and humourous light-hearted ending I thought.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ceel said:
One of the major plusses of J and J is that there are lots of work for actresses in it and it is written and directed by women, which goes a little way to readdress the balance.It also seems from this forum that it is enjoyed by women more than men.....
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Hello Cat. I haven't watched it again. I can't be bothered.
It does seem funny though that so many people come on to only post once or twice to stick up for Saunders or PM those who slag it off.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Matthew Stott said:
A nice last episode; whatever the nay-sayers think. I would say this is a genuinly good and different show; full of great actors who get their characters across as fully formed people with even only the odd line here or there scattered through an episode. Too gentle for most, especially most on here perhaps, but its a good show. Loved David Mitchells man to man chat, and the genuinly quite moving speech he made at the wedding.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jake How said:
I did not not see any episodes of the new series.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, sootyj said:
particularly dislike the snidey mental heath learning disability gags
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Quote: sootyj @ February 2, 2008, 9:04 PMparticularly dislike the snidey mental heath learning disability gags
View original
Dawn French's character is quite a juvenile stereotype isn't it. A one-dimentional sort of character that is the sort of thing you could expect someone in a school playground to think up, not a TV script
Anyway, thanks to everyone who posted up messages of support for the show in an attempt to keep a balance on this thread. I guess it's not a terrible program... if you look at it from a comedy drama perspective. It's just not funny enough to be a sitcom in my view.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Frankie Rage said:
I am pleased to say I've never seen the awful show!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ktc0412 said:
Sorry I may look sad to you all but I live in darkest Devon and I find this program truly amusing and living in a rural community can relate to most of this especially being involved in rural community life and its obscure political controversies like the church having too many coffee mornings etc. sorry its not for all but hey we don't all live in Albert square. can't wait for series 3
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Sean Prower said:
Hello ktc0412. I have say I enjoy it as well though you can probably relate to it more from where you live. Personally I find the light and funny nature of the show helps to wind down the week nicely. A good end to the series.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Kes83 said:
I agree that your locality and background might be important when watching this sitcom. I love it. I was bought up in a rural village and can see many of the villagers, and in deed my family, mirrored in the character in this well written, perfectly observed comedy.
I just hope there will be a third series.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Well at very least, it's good to see a show that's aimed squarely at rural communities, rather than us suburban types.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Kes83 said:
Does anyone know whether there will be a third series of Jam and Jerusalem?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
I've not heard anything Kes. I doubt a decision has been made yet, but they'd need to be filming over the summer I guess, so expect something soon. Either way, keep checking our news pages.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
I caught the start of Calendar Girls the other day and it's obvious to see where the basis for J & J came from.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, barney said:
It seems that everyone hates jam and jerusalem but Ive got to disagree its not a sitcom as such but i find it really funny and so does my partner am ordering the dvd!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, DivaDen said:
Well, guess it must be me. I think it's excellent. A total gem. Like Barney, i will ALSO be ordering the DVDs. The videos are getting worn out. Hurrah for the wit and wisdom of Jennifer Saunders and the brilliant acting of all the cast. Yah-boo to all the detractors.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
There are quite a few Jam and Jerusalem supporters now actually. Surprising, but the second series did grow on me. Still didn't really find it funny though.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Tim Walker said:
My 60 year old Mum liked it and that's fine by me. Not many 'comedies' are made for women like her. (Though my Mum's favourite sitcom of late is actually 'Saxondale' - the woman's got class.)
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Bloody hell!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: DivaDen @ February 22, 2008, 1:35 PMWell, guess it must be me. I think it's excellent. A total gem. Like Barney, i will ALSO be ordering the DVDs. The videos are getting worn out. Hurrah for the wit and wisdom of Jennifer Saunders and the brilliant acting of all the cast. Yah-boo to all the detractors.
View original
Yet another supporter of Jennifer Saunders who pops in here, makes one post and is never seen or heard of again.
Weird eh?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
David, not everyone loves comedy enough (unfortunately) to post incessently. Even Barry isn't a constant poster.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jeanie said:
It's not hilariously funny, but it's not supposed to be. I find the characters immensely endearing. If people were cracking up at this show there'd be some serious misguidance to it.
Honestly, I don't even think it should be discussed on a "sitcom" forum. The show's clearly a light drama.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: Jeanie @ February 25, 2008, 5:34 PMIt's not hilariously funny, but it's not supposed to be. I find the characters immensely endearing. If people were cracking up at this show there'd be some serious misguidance to it.
Honestly, I don't even think it should be discussed on a "sitcom" forum. The show's clearly a light drama.
View original
If that's the case don't you think Dawn French's character is seriously misplaced. She is so ridiculously over the top that I can't see it fits in with the rest.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jeff Chicago said:
I'm from the States, and love this show. My DVD of season one has made it's way around to many of my friends.. and most order a copy of their own. I didn't expect it to be like Ab Fab. It isn't.. and that is why I love it even more. I hope there is a third season.. and I hope the BBC is smart enough to release season 2 on DVD.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Seems that the show is far more popular in the US than it is in the UK!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Jeff Chicago said:
Quote: Aaron @ February 26, 2008, 9:06 AMSeems that the show is far more popular in the US than it is in the UK!
View original
Well... have you seen what is on American television lately? It really is a huge amount of crap. Jam just feels a little less contrived than most American sit-coms.. or dramadies as we call shows like Jam. Even with Rosie's off the wall character.. it all just seems a little more real than the current shows in the US. I am the exception... but I hate shows like Friends. Bad humour, bad writing, and they always overstay their welcome. Shows in the US run for much longer than your programming, and I think that makes the writers and actors lazy. Jam just seems like it gets to the point much quicker, and that is refreshing. I am biased though.. I am a huge fan of your shows. Ab Fab, French and Saunders, Are You Being Served, Vicar, Katherine Tate, Dr Who, Last of the Summer Wine, Torchwood... love them all. Many of my nights turn into impromptu BBC nights. Friends will come over for drink.. and we end up watching DVD's. That is something we never do for our American shows... well.. except for the American version of The Office.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Andrew M Bedell said:
I dont like it. I expect better from a writer like Jernnefer Saunders, but even a top notch cast are not able to save it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Starscream said:
I kind of fell across the first ep of the second series of J&J, and liked it so much, I got hold of the first series, to help understand the characters a bit more. I've now watched the whole lot and enjoyed it thoroughly.
I agree that it shouldn't be categorised as a sitcom. There is a gentle humour, which for country dwellers such as myself, is absolutely spot on. Everyone knows somebody like each of the main characters. It kind of reminds me like a rural Royle family. Subtle humour based on relationships and extreme normality.
..... lights touch paper and scrambles for cover...
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
I reckon all these Yanks who dive bomb this site in support of her are really Adrian Edmonson.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Oooh! If so, I love you Ade! 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, feckless said:
I loved J&J last year, but this year it has really blossomed. I cried at the series finale. A lot of threads are unsnipped, however and I hear there is not going to be a third series. Most on here won't mourn it, it seems.
PS I'm not Ade or Jen
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Marc P said:
Yup I think it's great too.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, feckless said:
I loved Tash, but didn't think she would end up with Spike!