Living the Dream

I cannot review the whole series because I have only watched 4 episodes. As a southern American, I cringe at the the over-the-top redneck accents. But that is part of the entertainment value of the show. Who doesn't love making fun of people, especially us southern Americans. I love British humor and watch as many shows as I can, and adding in the American aspect makes it even more fun. I don't think I have ever wanted to stay in any RV park in Florida, and this makes the prospect even less appealing! But I recommend the show, it's really funny. Americans just try not to be offended and just laugh.

Sure, I would probably not have watched it if it hadn't been for Philip Glenister. But I found it to be solid, warm hearted entertainment. They could well have went over the top with stereotypes and culture clash, but managed not to most of the time. Though sometimes forseeable it offers some nice twists and turns and most of all a great cast. I'm really looking forward to the second season.

I have to admit - when I first watched the first or second episode, I didn't really care for this show. However, I kept watching and it really grew on me. I especially loved Troy in the first season. The Character was larger than life (literally and figuratively) with a heart of gold under a rough exterior. I really miss him in Season 2. Kim Field was also wonderful in Season 1. Love Leslie Jordan (Aiden). He is great in everything he plays. He has brought a lot of humor and light to the show. Honestly, he really makes the show for me. Leslie Sharp and Philip Glenister are great actors - Mal and Jen have good chemistry and the characters are believable and funny. I was worried I wouldn't find anything to replace the show "Benidorm" after it ended - I loved the show so much. However, Living the Dream, to me, is just as funny. It is lighthearted and I feel good just watching it. Love love love. The Southern accents seem a little overdone some times, but that is my only critique. It is my new favorite show.

I wanted to love this show, because I adore Leslie Jordan, Philip Glenister & Lesley Sharp. The writing reminds me of any Tyler Perry TV show, unrealistic and beyond silly. The neighbors are all over the top stereotypes, of southerners with horrible accents. The Brits are much better, at the southern accent than the yanks. There are funny moments but I just had higher expectations.

The change in cast for the second series was a mistake. Without Kevin Nash and Kim Fields, there was definitely something missing. The direction was less folksy and caring. It was very exciting to see a program dealing with Brit ex-pats in the Central Florida area.