Aha!

I don't know what's in the air lately, but for whatever reason I've found myself drawn to British television (and one film). It's probably because, along with being a serious Francophile, I'm a also an enduring Anglophile. I've loved all things British since before I could remember, and with the Olympics on, there hasn't been much good American television to watch (besides LOST). So, here's a rundown of the generally excellent British fair I've been enjoying these past few weeks:

Jekyll - This is a neat little miniseries from Coupling creator/writer (and future Doctor Who producer) Steven Moffat, that takes a modern and conspiracy-driven look at the Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde mythos. Loaded with mystery, it's a fun ride. The last episode has a neat little twist, and then a not so neat one, so you've been warned, but other than that, it's a stellar series. (Caution: it does contain some colorful language). Netflix Instant Watch

Emma - A new adaptation of Jane Austen's book, staring Romola Garai (Atonement) and Jonny Lee Miller. It's nice to finally see a lengthy adaptation of Austen's book (I've seen Clueless and Gwyneth Paltrow's Emma), because there are so many peripheral characters that get the short shaft in both of those films. This one makes for a great Sunday afternoon, clocking in at only four hours. Fantastically produced and superbly acted. Masterpiece Classic on PBS (it's on DVD now, too)

The IT Crowd - I don't know why it's taken me so long to jump on this show, but it has. I wasn't super impressed with the first two episodes, but all the ones that have proceeded it have been laugh-out-loud hysterical. Netflix Instant Watch

Knowing Me, Knowing You with Alan Partridge - Aha! It's a parody chat show, complete with the most imbecilic of presenters ever to grace the BBC. Steve Coogan is Alan Partridge, a character who most definitely inspired Ricky Gervais' equally as ridiculous David Brent. Brilliantly conceived and just down right funny. A worthwhile rent. Netflix (the mail version)

Knowing Me, Knowing Yule with Alan Partridge - This is the Christmas special for the previous series. Probably the best episode of the series, for sure. You can watch the whole thing here on Dailymotion, if it suits you. Just brilliant. And it serves as the segue into this...

Or watch it here:

Alan partridge knowing me knowing yule. Part 1
Uploaded by CentralSouth. - Full seasons and entire episodes online.

I'm Alan Partridge - Following the Christmas special, Alan finds himself relocated to a small hotel in his hometown of Norwich, relegated to doing an early, early morning DJ stint at the local radio station. This is a more traditional sitcom, but still brilliant and amazing, thanks in part to smart writing and Steve Coogan's peerless performance. Netflix (the mail version)


Here's a good clip.

In The Loop - This is probably one of the best political satires I've seen in years. The comedy is sharp and the one-liners are juicy. Definitely not one for the kiddies (the language is rough), but if you can handle the swearing, it's smart, sad, and wonderfully hilarious. Netflix (the mail version)

The Thick of It - This is the TV version of In The Loop, with the same actors playing different characters (save for Peter Capaldi's vicious Malcolm Tucker, who appears in both). Equally as funny, and just as smart (although, it does help to understand British politics a bit. I still get confused, but the gist is relatively universal, so it works). Nefarious means Totally legit means of acquisition...

(If you're keeping score, the last five shows have one thing in common: Armando Ianucci, who writes, produces, and sometimes directs all of them. He's up for an Oscar this year for his script for In The Loop. He won't win, but boy does he deserve to...)

Top Gear - I was VERY skeptical about this show, but with two solid recommendations from friends, I had to give it a shot. I found it incredibly entertaining, and not because I have a thing for cars. Cause I don't. I hate to drive, and so I just don't get all happy pants around motorized vehicles. But, despite all of that, the charm of this show is undeniable. Very fun. Netflix Instant Watch