Ten Percent

Really enjoyed this. It's got virtually nothing in common with the French version & that doesn't matter. More of a dark comedy drama than Call my Agent.

Initially it seemed awkward and contrived, but looking at it without considering Call My Agent, I think it is working quite well. One of the characters looks like she is trying to be an actress in Twenty-Twelve, and it is almost embarrassing, but I do not think they are replicas of the French production, and I am enjoying it. Especially if they continue to relax.

There's lots of people criticising this series because it's "not as good as the French" version. I haven't seen the French version and thought Ten Percent is very funny in parts. It takes a few episodes to get into it, but really enjoyed the cast and special appearances, especially Dominic West as a frightened actor.

I haven't seen the French original so can't compare the two. But this is a very poor effort. The dialogue is ripped straight from W1A and Twenty Twelve. Yeah, no, totally, no, yeah. There are few jokes, the series instead relies on the odd bit of farce and inconvenience to keep you amused. It's all well-made, but mildly amusing at its best. A waste of talent.

Inevitably there are comparisons with the original French series, which I loved. However, this holds up very well and I became quickly hooked.

It is beautifully cast - Lydia Leonard, Maggie Steed and Tim McInnerney are always worth watching in Anything. Most of the rest are very good - though Mr Davenport does seem rather weary of it all.

I really hope a 2nd series is produced. If it is, then Please build Miss Steeds character, and Mr McInnerney's. He reminded me of Richard Harris - and even sounded like him, several times.

Good stuff!