Close
Never Better
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Here's a thread to discuss 'Never Better' - BBC Two's latest sitcom offering in its "Thursdays Are Funny" strand. Our Guide
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rick Skelton said:
I'll give it a shot. Mangan is horrible, so I'm not expecting to like it but I might be surprised.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charisma said:
I saw the picture of Mangan, and thought he looked like Dave Bussell? No?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Matthew Stott said:
Quote: Rick Skelton @ January 10, 2008, 2:17 PMI'll give it a shot. Mangan is horrible, so I'm not expecting to like it but I might be surprised.
View original
I think Mangans a great comic actor, for me his character was always the highlight of Green Wing. He was really good in that Free Agents pilot too.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rick Skelton said:
Pretty rubbish, apart from the bit where the kid smacked him. Child abuse? Hilarious. The character was too similar to Rick from Lead Balloon but the situations weren't funny and the supporting characters were crap.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, hotzappa11 said:
I thought it was all right, not the greatest thing i've seen. It got better in this 10-15 minutes and I laughed a few times. I'll be watching next week anyway.
In other news, Kate Ashfield is lurvvellly! 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rob B said:
What a load of old garbage. What was it meant to be?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David H said:
Same old, same old. Just like Lead Balloon. Can we not do away with these 'reaction' shows with no audience?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, niteowl said:
Can we sue BBC Two under the trade descriptions act yet? 'Thursdays are funny'?
OK gag at the end but did it deserve a whole episode to set up? This premise could have been so much funnier. I can imagine the writers going "oo, look at us tying all these seemingly unconnected strands together, aren't we comedy geniuses". Shame they forgot about jokes, and characterisation, and um, jokes.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, frostyboy [Ex-Member] said:
There were a few good moments, but overall I found Never Better to be rather disappointing.
The Alcoholics Anonymous meeting scenes reminded me of the Anger Management class scenes in Saxondale.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Cecil Van Percywinks said:
I don't often praise BBC comedy, but this I felt deserved a pat on the back. It reminded me a little of Lead Balloon. Mangan fits the role, and reminds me a bit of the donkey in Shrek.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Made me laugh lots of times. Therefore, good.
Quote: Cecil Van Percywinks @ January 10, 2008, 11:28 PMand reminds me a bit of the donkey in Shrek.
View original
Let's not bring that back again!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
I was geared up to hate this, but I didn't think it was too bad. There weren't nearly enough killer lines, and the targets of the comedy seemed pretty easy, but I actually stuck with it and will watch the next episode.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick said:
I had to switch off halfway through.
I thought it was desperately unfunny and depressing. The themes discussed in the show were basically abuse, bullying, abuse, nightmares, abuse, murder etc. Not exactly great comic fare.
Also the characterisation was really poor and the scenes in the self-help group were far too similar to Saxondale.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
It wasn't the greatest show I have seen, but I'll probably give it another try. Does anyone know the viewing figures for it?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rick Skelton said:
Quote: Ian Wolf @ January 11, 2008, 1:23 PMDoes anyone know the viewing figures for it?
View original
A quick count through this thread suggest at least 8! So better than Hyperdrive already.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rob B said:
Quote: Ian Wolf @ January 11, 2008, 1:23 PMIt wasn't the greatest show I have seen, but I'll probably give it another try. Does anyone know the viewing figures for it?
View original
Probably about 3m for the start and 172 at the end.
Quote: Rick Skelton @ January 11, 2008, 1:55 PMA quick count through this thread suggest at least 8! So better than Hyperdrive already.
View original
Rick you beat me to it
By god what an awful show.On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Mark said:
Quote: Ian Wolf @ January 11, 2008, 1:23 PMIt wasn't the greatest show I have seen, but I'll probably give it another try. Does anyone know the viewing figures for it?
View original
The official Never Better figure was a rather average 1.4m. It was beaten by Katy Brand who got 1.6m. Moving Wallpaper/Echo Beach smashed BBC2 a little earlier in the night with a rather impressive 5m. Of course it remains to be seen how many of those will carry on watching tonight when the second Wallpaper/Echo double-bill goes out.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Rick Skelton @ January 11, 2008, 1:55 PMA quick count through this thread suggest at least 8! So better than Hyperdrive already.
View original
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
Quote: Mark @ January 11, 2008, 2:22 PMThe official Never Better figure was a rather average 1.4m. It was beaten by Katy Brand who got 1.6m. Moving Wallpaper/Echo Beach smashed BBC2 a little earlier in the night with a rather impressive 5m. Of course it remains to be seen how many of those will carry on watching tonight when the second Wallpaper/Echo double-bill goes out.
View original
Where did you get those figures?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
If I know Mark, probably a magic walrus named Malcolm.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
It was watchable. Although I got a bit confused. What was his job?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
Quote: ContainsNuts @ January 11, 2008, 3:09 PMIt was watchable. Although I got a bit confused. What was his job?
View original
It wasn't mentioned, but the chracter says he has one.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
Quote: Ian Wolf @ January 11, 2008, 3:12 PMIt wasn't mentioned, but the chracter says he has one.
View original
Great bit of character creation there.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Matthew Stott said:
It was ok, but didnt seem to have the cutting edge that this type of show needs; maybe it will in future episodes. Good enough for me to watch again, and I liked the bit where the kid starts laying the boot in.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Walker said:
It was ... urgh ... until the very last scene, which was a perfect way to end an episode on a joke.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, SivoxII said:
Hmm? .. sounds like it mainly gets poor reviews, so may walk right past it!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Tim Walker said:
Quote: SivoxII @ January 14, 2008, 12:38 AMHmm? .. sounds like it mainly gets poor reviews, so may walk right past it!
View original
I'd give it a chance. Often I don't think you can really tell how much it's going to work until the third or fourth episode. It may be a grower. What's clear is that something more than grumpiness, insecurity and social awkwardness needs to emerge from the main character pretty soon.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: Tim Walker @ January 14, 2008, 12:44 AMWhat's clear is that something more than grumpiness, insecurity and social awkwardness needs to emerge from the main character British non-sketch comedy pretty soon.
View original
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
Quote: Tim Walker @ January 14, 2008, 12:44 AMIt may be a grower. What's clear is that something more than grumpiness, insecurity and social awkwardness needs to emerge from the main character pretty soon.
View original
It could also be described as the Ricky Gervais effect. Because The Office and Extras were so hugely succsful, producers break their necks to commission similar non-studio audience single camera comedies that rely heavily on socially awkward characters doing and saying socially awkward things. We'll get loads more of this type of show until the genre finally plays itself out and something new comes along for TV executives to bludgeon to death.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
I am enjoying it. Love the characters & have laughed out loud several times.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rick Skelton said:
Quote: Charley @ January 16, 2008, 4:19 PMI am enjoying it. Love the characters & have laughed out loud several times.
View original
Yeh, but you're slightly odd, aren't you?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
Fankoo!!!!!
I wouldnt say "Odd".
Deranged, mad, freaky, filthy, may be better words.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, mooferoo said:
I'm new here (hello all ) - just saw this on the homepage and thought i'd join in!
I quite enjoyed last week's show, and reading the paper they have said good stuff about tonight...so maybe it is a grower - i think i'll stick with it (especially as i love stephen mangan!)
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
Just finished watching the second episode. I thought that this episode was a bit better than the first, containing darker humour. Perhaps the third one will finally swing it for me.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
I still haven't watched the first episode. (If I tape something I never ever get around to watching it. I don't know why I bother.)
But this episode was great!
Pretty funny. And Mangan's such a wonderful actor, he's kind of unmissable in anything.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: zooo @ January 17, 2008, 10:45 PMI still haven't watched the first episode.
View original
Ditto.
Quote: zooo @ January 17, 2008, 10:45 PM(If I tape something I never ever get around to watching it. I don't know why I bother.)
View original
Ditto quite often!
Quote: zooo @ January 17, 2008, 10:45 PMMangan's such a wonderful actor, he's kind of unmissable in anything.
View original
He did one of those quick-fire mini questionnaire interview things in London Lite (?) last week. One particular Q&A springs to mind:
North or south London?
North. South London's like the ugly sister, just to balance it out.
Well I'm sure I paraphrase, but you get the jist.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
I enjoyed this episode more, a much better ending than the disappointing first. I like the fact that when he finally does the right thing it turns out to be the worst.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
There is a review of "Never Better" in the Daily Telegraph today, which is mostly negative.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Tim Walker said:
Last week I said that this might be a grower. I fear I was terribly optimistic.
This week, when Keith's friend said, "You're were more fun when you were drinking" he spoke for the audience.
It's terrible to wish alcohol on an alcoholic (not that Mangan's character seems to be interesting enough to have had a drink problem), but the only thing that might salvage this series is if Keith falls off the wagon for the remaining episodes.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rick Skelton said:
I thought it was slightly better this week but still pretty average. There were more funny bits. I think it's something I could watch but I've no desire to record it or ever watch it again.
The problem for me, is that it's much too serious. I'm all for comedies tackling serious issues and adding reality to the situation. The problem with 'Never Better' is that the characterisation is so effing appalling that there is literally no reason to care whether Keith is a prick or a nice guy, whether he's embarrassed or hard done to, nothing. Why should anyone care about him?
Mine name is Rick and I'm an alcoholic. Do you care? No. Because you know nothing about me. Also, whoever decided that having a sitcom character who's only character aspect is that he ISN'T interesting wants shooting.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick said:
Managed to sit through the first 15 minutes of the second episode and thought it was dire again. The characterization is terrible as has always been mentioned and there aren't enough laughs by a long, long way.
Also a lot of the ideas are very unimaginative. The self-help group thing is pinched straight from Saxondale and the mobile phone joke has been done plenty of times before (eg. the C4 pilot last year).
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
Quote: Nick @ January 18, 2008, 11:29 AMManaged to sit through the first 15 minutes of the second episode and thought it was dire again. The characterization is terrible as has always been mentioned and there aren't enough laughs by a long, long way.
Also a lot of the ideas are very unimaginative. The self-help group thing is pinched straight from Saxondale and the mobile phone joke has been done plenty of times before (eg. the C4 pilot last year).
View original
Which pilot are you refering to? I'm guessing Free Agents, the one Mangan was in.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rockabilly said:
If this is comedy, then all hope is gone.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick said:
Quote: Ian Wolf @ January 18, 2008, 11:39 AMWhich pilot are you refering to? I'm guessing Free Agents, the one Mangan was in.
View original
No, the one with Roy Kinnear's son in it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Quote: Aaron @ January 17, 2008, 11:02 PMHe did one of those quick-fire mini questionnaire interview things in London Lite (?) last week. One particular Q&A springs to mind:
North or south London?
North. South London's like the ugly sister, just to balance it out.
View original
Ha! I must agree...
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rick Skelton said:
The South of the entire country is an ugly sister, with 2 pretty bits in the bottom corners.
Lets call it an ugly sister wearing nice earrings.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
(I'm laughing AT you, not WITH you. 
)
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Rick Skelton said:
Everything is more expensive and you are closer to France. Who's laughing now.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yeah, well, uhh ... Bugger.
"Jealous? Of the IRISH?! Listen love, the only reason I can think of to be jealous of the Irish is that they're a little further away from FRANCE than we are!"
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
Quote: Rick Skelton @ January 18, 2008, 1:40 PMEverything is more expensive and you are closer to France. Who's laughing now.
View original
Yeah but you're closer to Scotland. At least France has Emmanuelle!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Scotland has Frankie Boyle! 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Wales has Gethin. England has Boosh, and pretty much everyone else you show an interest in.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Britain rules.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Yes, yes she does.
*wipes a patriotic tear*
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Well I watched this last night.
I was thinking it wasn't too funny - until about the last 10 minutes.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, niteowl said:
I think for this premise to work we really need to have some idea of what the guy was like before he stopped drinking and theres just nothing to care about with this guy-his mate says he was more fun when he was boozing but can anyone imagine this guy being 'fun'?
This show is such a waste.Its not even 'bad' enough to be interesting,just kind of pointless.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ANDYG said:
I thought Never Better was great, especially the son in episode 1 (Tom). He seemed to really enjoy the kicking he gave his Dad.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Joey Moose said:
I watched Never Better, and it was very good.....definitely had some laugh out loud moments. Mangan is one of my favourite comedy actors, even though he plays the same character in everything! (if you know what I mean)
DAN!!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
There is an interview with Stephen Mangan about Never Better on Digital Spy.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Philly Baby said:
Anyone notice the subtle hints of anti-Christian in this week's episode? Funny how that's allowed but not towards other religions, isn't it? It's almost as if there were anti-Christian racists in charge of our media.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Oh christ. Please don't be a conspiraloon!
Thank goodness for digs against religion. All religions. Maybe they'll do islam next week.
I think this show gets better every week.
And it had a lovely little kitty.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, frostyboy [Ex-Member] said:
BBC: "Thursdays are funny"
I think not.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ContainsNuts said:
Quote: Philly Baby @ January 24, 2008, 10:41 PMAnyone notice the subtle hints of anti-Christian in this week's episode? Funny how that's allowed but not towards other religions, isn't it? It's almost as if there were anti-Christian racists in charge of our media.
View original
Yeah but what are the Christians going to do? Give them a really hard forgiving?
Didn't think this episode was as good as 2. It was almost two completely unrelated storylines stuck together.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick said:
Quote: Philly Baby @ January 24, 2008, 10:41 PMIt's almost as if there were anti-Christian racists in charge of our media.
View original
Anti-Christian racists??? Congratulations on writing the most ridiculous post in this site's history. Very funny stuff.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
I think there's a a fair amount of truth in the fact that Christians often get a kicking from comedy, while everybody appears terrified to have a go at other religions, namely Islam. As for anti-Christian bias in Never Better, I couldn't say, I gave up after episode 2. It all seems far to derivative. I suspect I'm not alone, and I doubt they'll be a second series.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick said:
Quote: chipolata @ January 25, 2008, 10:15 AMI think there's a a fair amount of truth in the fact that Christians often get a kicking from comedy, while everybody appears terrified to have a go at other religions, namely Islam. As for anti-Christian bias in Never Better, I couldn't say, I gave up after episode 2. It all seems far to derivative. I suspect I'm not alone, and I doubt they'll be a second series.
View original
Sure Christianity is sometimes mocked, but that has nothing to do with racism.
I've given up on this show too. I caught about 2 minutes of it last night and even in that time noticed that the cat's name was copied from Skinner and Baddiel (unless this was explained elsewhere). Far too derivative as you said, bad characterisation and nowhere near funny enough.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
Quote: Nick @ January 25, 2008, 10:24 AMSure Christianity is sometimes mocked, but that has nothing to do with racism.
View original
You're right, but I didn't call it racism. It was Philly Baby, who was probably getting a bit carried away.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: zooo @ January 24, 2008, 10:45 PMOh christ. Please don't be a conspiraloon!
Thank goodness for digs against religion. All religions. Maybe they'll do islam next week.
I think this show gets better every week.
And it had a lovely little kitty.
View original
That's the trouble though isn't it.
The smart arse Guardian readership who run things like the BBC wouldn't dare criticise any other religion - unless it's Omid or Jocelyne.
And I think the cat's name was to show that she wasn't very original - not the joke.
I'm afraid it's all a bit too like Lead Balloon for me though but not good enough.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, johnny roulette said:
i hate this show and i've never even seen it.
isn't it that christians are allowed to mock christians. i suspect that the show was predominantly written, made and performed by people who have had a largely christian upbringing.
having been forced to say prayers, go to sunday school, sing hymns, endure christian rituals all my life i feel entitled to have a go at them. i wouldn't really feel in a position to mock other religions because they have done nothing to me and i have no experience of them.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Chairman Meow is quite a common name for a cat. I think David Baddiel called his cat that though, yes.
Yesterday I thought it reminded me of Curb, at the beginning. Style only though, didn't think it was copying it at all.
I really like it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: zooo @ January 25, 2008, 12:04 PMChairman Meow
View original
I believe it's spelt 'Miaow'.
The pun doesn't work quite as well otherwise!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
According to The Guardian, last night's episode attracted only 900,000 viewers (5%). This is compared to "The Convention Crasher" with Justin Lee Collins with 1.1 million (7%). It even lost out to Five's "Help! I've Got a High Maintenance Wife!" which had 1 million viewers (6%).
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Quote: Aaron @ January 25, 2008, 1:26 PMI believe it's spelt 'Miaow'.
The pun doesn't work quite as well otherwise!
View original
Ha. Good point.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
There another interview with Mangan in The Guardian. In it, he says he hates The Archers, which must have caused a bit of tension on the Green Wing set seeing as how Tamsin Greig stars in it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
Tension on set can quite often be a good thing. Gene Hackman is well known for being an awkward cuss on set simply because he thinks it improves his and their performances. Admittedly, Gene Hackman's not a terribly good example to give on a forum devoted to sitcoms, but I'm sure there are lots of shows in which actors and writers hated each other but they still produced great shows. Get Aaron to look into it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Wilfrid Brambell and Harry H. Corbett couldn't stand each other by the end of Steptoe and Son, barely speaking off-set.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
Quote: Aaron @ January 28, 2008, 2:03 PMWilfrid Brambell and Harry H. Corbett couldn't stand each other by the end of Steptoe and Son, barely speaking off-set.
View original
Oh yes, I forgot all about that.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
Talking of tension, Chris Langham was sacked after the first series of Not Thhe Nine O'Clock News. And talking of weirdoes with psychological problems, the entire cast of the Carry On films often come across like extras from One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest, with the bile filled Kenneth Williams as head big-nosed loony.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Carry On Bitching?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, ajp29 said:
I watched this earlier and it was OK but I got massive deja vu when he was in the coffee shop with that Ginger bloke. It was like Green Wing all other again. Random comments, same accents, same hair. Whats going on?
Apologies if this has been mentioned before I haven't read the whole thread.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
You know what. Yes some of the stuff has been used. Yes it can only have maybe 1 or 2 big laughs per eppy. However I like it. There is something that makes me sky + it. Believe me, I am a picky bitch with my sky +in.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
Talking of tension in sitcoms, which is a damn sight preferable to discussing the damp squib that is Never Better, I get the impression John Cleese is a bit of a nightmare to work with. A picky perfectionist, and not nearly as funny in real life as some of the characters he's created.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
Quote: chipolata @ February 1, 2008, 10:13 AMTalking of tension in sitcoms, which is a damn sight preferable to discussing the damp squib that is Never Better, I get the impression John Cleese is a bit of a nightmare to work with. A picky perfectionist, and not nearly as funny in real life as some of the characters he's created.
View original
Well, Fawlty Towers was written when Cleese and Connie Booth were going through a divorce, so it is known to happen.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
And talking of marital difficulties, didn't John Le Mesuir cuckold Tony Hancock? Or vice versa?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick said:
Quote: chipolata @ February 1, 2008, 10:36 AMAnd talking of marital difficulties, didn't John Le Mesuir cuckold Tony Hancock? Or vice versa?
View original
Vice versa.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
And John was totally understanding about it, knowing how charming his best friend could be. More tolerance and understanding than I would have had!
I have no idea where I heard this, so it could be entirely bollocks, but apparently it was through that affair that Tony ended up topping himself. Whilst working in Australia, a GPO strike here meant that letters Joan (John Le Mesurier's wife) had sent to him did not arrive. He (perhaps naturally) assumed, whilst already in a state of depression, that she had abandoned him, and so feeling that there was nothing left, took his own life.
Pretty sure I saw that on a TV documentary, featuring an interview with Joan talking openly about the affair, actually.
Anyway... Jolly subject.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
It was also dealt with in a TV drama starring Alfred Molina as Hancock. Not sure who played John.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Nick Rivers said:
caught this for the first time tonight. well crafted storyline with some genuinely funny moments (mainly second half). had the impression, reading snippets from here, it would be otherwise so was pleasantly surprised.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
I forgot this was on and only came in half-way through.
Lovely cringey stuff - specially the last scene.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
It was brilliant. Again.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: zooo @ February 7, 2008, 10:55 PMIt was brilliant. Again.
View original
But then you're biased.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Nah. I don't fancy Mangan at all!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Can we have another series right now please?
I miss it already, and it's only been over for 13 minutes.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Charley said:
I really enjoyed this.
I miss it too Zooo.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
Certainly an interesting ending. Seems to fit in well with the character - in that no matter how good you Keith to be, he just ends up worse for it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, hotzappa11 said:
"Did you just call me a satnav!" lol
Kind of Sad ending but worked well. me loves Kate Ashfield.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
She's pretty isn't she.
I was just thinking while I watched it, how come no boys seem to mention her when we're on about fanciable sitcom actors?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, frostyboy [Ex-Member] said:
Never Better is a load of depressing rubbish.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Are you a lapsed alcoholic?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, frostyboy [Ex-Member] said:
Quote: zooo @ February 15, 2008, 1:46 PMAre you a lapsed alcoholic?
View original
I'm a teetotaller. I thought you knew that!
Anyway, Never Better is a dark, depressing and largely unfunny program.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
It's quite dark. But it doesn't depress me, 'cause I laugh all the way through it.
His shouted conversation with his dad over the computer was hilarious.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: zooo @ February 15, 2008, 12:07 PMI was just thinking while I watched it, how come no boys seem to mention her when we're on about fanciable sitcom actors?
View original
I was about to say "Because men aren't like that" - and then I realised how ridiculous it was. :-/
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
Chortle is reporting that last night's episode attracted only 823,000 viewers. That means the entire series attracted an average of 935,000 viewers per episode. Meanwhile, Little Miss Jocelyn had an average of 1.1 million per episode.
The Big Bang Theory, the new Channel 4 import, got 903,000 viewers.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, hotzappa11 said:
Quote: zooo @ February 15, 2008, 12:07 PMShe's pretty isn't she.
I was just thinking while I watched it, how come no boys seem to mention her when we're on about fanciable sitcom actors?
View original
Well, she hasn't been in any sitcoms I don't think, just films including SOTD and a lot of dramas.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
Ah.
Good point well made.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, David Chapman said:
Quote: hotzappa11 @ February 15, 2008, 11:09 AM"Did you just call me a satnav!" lol
Kind of Sad ending but worked well. me loves Kate Ashfield.
View original
If that's his wife she's a bit plain, dull and uninteresting.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Fiiiinally watching this now. Only on episode one, but good stuff. And yes, Kate Ashfield is really rather pretty.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Joey Moose said:
I thoroughly enjoyed the whole series.....hope it gets a second run. "There was no Keith Song"
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Ian Wolf said:
Some more details have been released about the forthcoming American version of the show (as previously reported). The lead role will be played by an African-American actor, Damon Wayans. It will be directed by Marc Buckland, who also directed "Scrubs" and "My Name is Earl".
http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117984915.html?categoryid=14&cs=1
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, hotzappa11 said:
Quote: Ian Wolf @ May 1 2008, 8:14 AM BSTSome more details have been released about the forthcoming American version of the show (as previously reported). The lead role will be played by an African-American actor, Damon Wayans. It will be directed by Marc Buckland, who also directed "Scrubs" and "My Name is Earl".
http://www.variety.com/article/VR1117984915.html?categoryid=14&cs=1
View original
The first few series of "My Wife & Kids" were funny, but that's all I really know about DW.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
This show was a banal rip off of Curb. It got pretty small viewing figures and I'd be surprised if it got a second series. And it's portrait of addiction and alcoholism was clearly by somebody who has never had a problem with addiction or alcoholism.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
And despite that, it was fantastic and I can't wait until it returns.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
I reject the Curb ripoff theory, and also strongly welcome a return.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
I must say it didn't remind me of Curb much at all.
Lead Balloon may have done, but I still don't think of even that as a 'rip off'.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
You can welcome it all you like, it ain't going to happen, sunshine.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
chipolata being the commissions editor of the BBC.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
They don't call me Mystic Chipolata for nothing. Look, I might be wrong, but the viewing figures started low and got lower. And as Beeb 2 already has Lead Balloon, which does the same sort of thing much better, I'd be very surprised if they recommissioned it.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
But I want both!!!
Surely that counts for something.... 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Quote: zooo @ May 1 2008, 1:10 PM BSTI must say it didn't remind me of Curb much at all.
Lead Balloon may have done, but I still don't think of even that as a 'rip off'.
View original
Neither did for me, at all!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
Is it just me, or are Aaron and zooo growing into quite a sweet couple? After an antagonistic start, they seem to be falling for each other. 
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
Er, yeah, we're getting down and dirty. 
(Anyway, as lovely as I'm sure she is, her loving of celebrities scares and would somewhat intimidate me.)
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, chipolata said:
It's the Doctor Who obsession that gives me the willies.
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
It's the Doctor who she wishes would give her willies!
Anyway, back on topic!
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, zooo said:
He's only got one willy!
Two hearts though.
So he could fall in love with me twice.
Quote: Aaron @ May 2 2008, 11:02 AM BSTback on topic!
View original
Has there been any hint as to whether it's coming back?
On Wednesday 31st December 1969 GMT at 7:00 PM GMT, Aaron said:
I'm not sure, but I don't think it's been announced yet whether they actually are recommissioning it or not. I hope so though, because I rather enjoyed it, and there's definitely room for it to grow.
And awww, bless you.