Jonah from Tonga

These spinoffs from the Summer Heights High TV show feature one of the characters in depth rather than switching between them. This gives us more focus but at the expense of wearing the material thin. I think I liked the original format more because it kept things fresh. I'm surprised that Jonah and Ja'mie got spinoffs but not Mr. G considering that he was probably the most popular character. This show demonstrates why. Although Jonah is a funny and endearing character, it is only entertaining up to a point and there is a finite limit for his much they can get out of this one character.

Another reviewer here put it very well: Summer Heights High was balanced and engaging, but when Chris Lilley ventures off with single characters, the stories and character development falter.

Jonah is not an unrealistic character; he is that hyper, intensely irritating, in-the-name-of-all-that's-holy-STFU teenager that we've all seen somewhere, even if only in passing. He's pure, concentrated annoyance, desperate for any kind of attention or reaction. And I give Chris Lilley full points for being able to recreate that. But unless you're a social worker or a teacher specializing in behavior disorders, do you really want to spend time with that kid, even from the safety of your living room? Seriously, when the teacher breaks a chair against the wall or Jonah's father chases him across a bowling alley with a steady stream of obscenities and death threats, you understand completely.

And that's probably Lilley's point: How do you deal with someone so profoundly and unrelentingly obnoxious, but who is, after all, still a kid? I like that there are no Very Special Episodes (at least not so far) in which Jonah learns his lesson and vows to do better. Instead, we're only given brief glimpses of his possible humanity, e.g., his love for his younger brother or his semi-endearing delusions regarding his dance skills. But while it's more realistic for Jonah to carry on with little forward movement, the lack of development does mean that the show is repetitive and circular.

First I would Like to say that U need to have a big sense of humor and a open mind to watch this show. I seen some reviews that say they are "tired" of hearing his jokes and him being rebellious. That is Jonahs personality learn to accept it or don't watch it. My Husband and I do like the show; Even though we viewed disrespect towards others and racist jokes it was funny. Come on we all want to say those bad things to others sometimes; Or say A racist joke. The point is to my review, Don't take it Literally OR personally. Its just acting... Very good acting. Chris Lilley did a Awsm job. We cant wait to see what he is going to come out with next.

One of the funniest shows I've seen on TV. I know we live in a very sensitive era and some may be offended, but funny is funny no matter how you look at it. It's also amazing how he pulls off being a 14 year old of Tongan descent but is in his late thirties. The way he blends in with the younger characters on the show is brilliant. This will prompt me to go back and watch his other offerings (Summer Heights High and Angry Boys) just to see what I've been missing. Brilliant comedic minds don't come along very often, so let's enjoy this and not suppress the laughter that he is bring to the table. Can't wait for the next episode. Kudos to Chris Lilley for creating this character.

For the other imbeciles who are leaving reviews saying "I don't get it", of course you don't because Jonah from Tonga isn't your usual low brow American comedy.

It's smart, funny and extremely dry. Probably more suited to Europeans and our mates down under.

The reason why JFT is so brilliant is because the writing brilliantly captures exactly how a troubled teenager would act, right down to the speech and behavioral nuances.

Yes the show gets a bit weird at times, but if you "get" dry humor, you will love it.

That is all.