This collection offers an overview of British TV comedies, ranging from the beginnings of sitcoms in the 1950s to the current boom of 'Britcoms'. It provides in-depth analyses of major comedies, systematically addressing their generic properties, filmic history, humour politics and cultural impact.
Television was one of the forces shaping the cultural revolution of the 1960s and 1970s, when a blockbuster TV series could reach up to a third of a country's population. This book explores television's impact on social change by comparing three sitcoms and their audiences. The shows in focus - Till Death Us Do Part in Britain, All in the Family in the United States, and One Heart and One Soul in West Germany - centered on a bigoted anti-hero and his family. Between 1966 and 1979 they saturated popular culture, and managed to accelerate as well as deradicalize value changes and collective attitudes regarding gender roles, sexuality, religion, and race.
Laugh 'til it hurts, as Jethro reveals all in his hilarious live show. Jethro reveals all in his hilarious live show. Laugh 'til it hurts as Cornwall's best-loved comic takes a look at life -- as only he can! Discover the meaning of twernt't and find out what happened when Jethro's pal, Denzil Penberthy, popped into the clock shop! Featuring Jethro at his belly laugh best -- performing live -- plus a collection of cracking sketches, this is one portion of West Country wit you won't want to miss.
Journey through the illustrious history of British television in "The 200 Greatest British TV Shows of All Time." From the timeless humor of "Fawlty Towers" to the groundbreaking mystery of "Sherlock," and from the cultural phenomenon of "Doctor Who" to the gripping drama of "Broadchurch," this book celebrates the finest that British TV has to offer. Each chapter delves into the heart of a beloved show, offering insights into its creation, its impact, and its place in British cultural history. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer to British TV, this collection is a must-read, offering a rich tapestry of genres, eras, and stories that have captivated audiences around the world. Uncover the stories behind the screen, the characters that became icons, and the episodes that left a mark on the history of television. With 200 chapters, each dedicated to a different show, this guide is the ultimate guide to the shows that have defined British television and continue to inspire new generations of viewers.
British sitcoms have long been celebrated for their wit, charm, and ability to capture the quirks of everyday life. In "Britcoms: The 90 Greatest British Sitcoms of All Time," you'll embark on a journey through the golden moments of British television comedy, exploring the shows that have made us laugh, think, and sometimes even cry. This book is a comprehensive guide to the finest British sitcoms, from the timeless hilarity of Fawlty Towers and the sharp satire of Yes, Minister to the quirky brilliance of The IT Crowd and the suburban antics of Gavin & Stacey. Each chapter is dedicated to a single sitcom, offering an in-depth look at its creation, cultural impact, and the memorable characters that have become beloved household names. Whether you grew up with the classic charm of Dad's Army, found yourself relating to the struggles of The Office, or were captivated by the irreverent humor of Blackadder, this book covers it all. It’s a must-have for fans of British comedy. With "Britcoms," you'll revisit the unforgettable moments and unforgettable lines that have made British sitcoms a treasured part of global entertainment. Perfect for both seasoned fans and those new to the genre, this book will have you laughing along as you rediscover the genius of British television comedy at its very best.
Maybe Jesus was joking, the disciples didn't know what they were doing and the New Testament is a lot funnier than you might think. You would think it weird if someone suddenly ascended into heaven, right? Reading between the lines, do we detect a touch of rivalry between Peter and John? And surely the lack of parables in the latter's mystical tome is simply crying out to be redressed . . . In this sparklingly witty book, BBC sitcom writer James Cary gives us a new and liberating way of looking at the gospel as he entertainingly relates it to a modern context, with references ranging from Charles Dickens to The Vicar of Dibley. Cheerfully playing around with the text, he takes the Bible seriously but allows us to laugh at our own petty vanities and foibles - and be enlightened in the process. The Gospel According to a Sitcom Writer is ideal for anyone wanting to liven up their Bible reading and looking for new ways to be thrilled by this sacred text. It's also perfect for priests, pastors, youth leaders and all those involved in ministry and giving sermons, as James Cary shows using comedy and humour is a brilliant way to communicate the gospel. Warm, funny and full of brilliant insight and Christian humour, The Gospel According to a Sitcom Writer will make you laugh out loud and shake your head in awe. You'll never read the Bible the same way again.
Britain is famous for its sitcoms. Many have been been made and numerous sitcoms are regarded as all time classic British television shows. In the past sitcoms were ubiquitous on television - particularly in the 1970s - making up a key part of programme schedules. In later years sitcoms have become rarer, but are still shown. It is common for comedies today to have a modern take on the sitcom and have no laughter track and be almost like a comedy drama. What are the greatest British sitcoms? This is a subjective opinion as people have different senses of humour; this book is the author's opinion, taking into account some other factors such as impact on popular culture, production values and so forth. There is a consensus on the best British sitcoms. These appear on greatest sitcom lists, or a critically acclaimed today. Another way to determine to the British sitcom can be to note which old sitcoms are repeated on British television channels. Hopefully this book will be of interest to those interested in British sitcoms and comedy and hopefully the reader will be introduced to some new comedy classics.
This book is the first sustained critical analysis of Cult British TV comedy from 1990 to the present day. The book examines ‘post-alternative’ comedy as both ‘cult’ and ‘quality’ TV, aimed mostly at niche audiences and often possessing a subcultural aura (comedy was famously declared ‘the new ‘rock’n’roll’ in the early ‘90s). It includes case studies of Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer and the sitcom writer Graham Linehan. It examines developments in sketch shows and the emergence of ‘dark’ and ‘cringe’ comedy, and considers the politics of ‘offence’ during a period in which Brass Eye, ‘Sachsgate’ and Frankie Boyle provoked different kinds of media outrage. Programmes discussed include Vic Reeves Big Night Out, Peep Show, Father Ted, The Mighty Boosh, The Fast Show and Psychoville. Cult British TV Comedy will be of interest to both students and fans of modern TV comedy.
Television was one of the forces shaping the cultural revolution of the 1960s and 1970s, when a blockbuster TV series could reach up to a third of a country’s population. This book explores television’s impact on social change by comparing three sitcoms and their audiences. The shows in focus – Till Death Us Do Part in Britain, All in the Family in the United States, and One Heart and One Soul in West Germany – centered on a bigoted anti-hero and his family. Between 1966 and 1979 they saturated popular culture, and managed to accelerate as well as deradicalize value changes and collective attitudes regarding gender roles, sexuality, religion, and race.