Count Arthur Strong

I've heard the radio version. If you are into wacky humour this one is for you!

Steve Delaney has played Arthur Strong since the 1980s and like Steve Coogan is rapidly approaching the actual age of the character he is well known for.

Arthur Strong is a retired comedian and actor who has grand delusions, clumsiness and is easily confused.

He comes into contact with Michael who is researching a book about his late father who was an entertainer and comic partner to Arthur Strong. Whilst encountering Arthur, Michael also comes into contact with his circle of misfit friends.

This TV adaptation is based on the radio series and after a dicey first episode it seems to have settled down. The character of Arthur Strong has been softened for the television although he can still grate and irritate.

Some of the plots are inspired by the radio series and some of the slapstick looks to be tailor made for the TV version.

The Michael character as played by Rory Kinnear is our entry to this strange world of Arthur Strong, although by the final episode of the first series we realise we know little about Michael.

It seems that he actually lives in York and we do not know whether he is even married or not.

What works is the buffoonery between Michael and Arthur and this was demonstrated in the second episode with the Jack the Ripper tour

It is not perfect and it has been labelled as Marmite as some viewers have just found it unfunny.

However there is enough there to entertain and make you laugh.

In the time of reboots of shows people forget they were sick of this is an original idea and completely original character and plot. It's not mean spirited It's not sex filled or innuendo laden it's well written and genuinely funny, though it pokes fun at age its the same way a family does. The star, who is much younger than the character he portrays is brilliant. This show would have almost no chance in the US mainly because it would morph into an angry old man who hates everyone and everything the anger would only stop when uncomfortable old people sex. This is nearly the perfect sitcom or should I say the closest to perfect a sitcom can get.

I'm really not sure why i like this programme as much as i do... but it is one of the funniest things i've seen in a long time. i only gave it a go because Graham Linehan was involved in the writing.

It is good clean comedy with the typically bizarre moments you would expect from a piece of Linehan writing... as the show progresses you see Michael slowly but surely becoming one of the crazy collective.

The character that is Count Arthur Strong was an amazing idea and is brilliantly acted in this show.

The confusion is pure quality.

If you have never even heard of the radio show (like me) just give this show a try and you may well be glad you did.

I know, realise and fully get why Count Arthur Strong is seen as a Marmite comedy, I know people that genuinely detest it, I get that, I have to admit that I am a huge fan of it, it's quirky, slapstick, zany and madcap, I love it. As a character he's pompous, idiotic and would drive anyone to drink, a huge round of applause for Steve Delaney, his delivery is incredibly slick, as is his timing.

Rory Kinnear shows just how versatile a performer he is, he's brilliant as Michael, the pair offer such different comic styles. Two brilliant series transmitted, and luckily a third is due soon.

Some of the funniest comedy moments I have seen in years, Linehan's involvement is obvious, The Ice Cream van, The local elections, and of course the false leg. I missed Katya, but her storyline in the first series was hilarious and truly moving.

I guess it's a show that could take a bit of time to get into, but I'm sure once you watch, you'll be hooked, I love it.

9/10.