buddleja

Here is British humour at its very wittiest and cutting.

The machinations of the team at Prentiss McCabe are a joy to behold as they spin the latest challenge.

The dialogue is edged with a delicious sprinkle of smugness. Not that you'd like to meet any of these people - they're utterly self-serving, and are a sharp reflection of the slick wheelings and dealings, counter-dealings, backstabbing, Machiavellian world that I could only imagine might take place in such a real world business.

I came late to this series, only discovering it last year and, I can thoroughly recommend it. Like Fawlty Towers, the limited production of episodes will ensure this remains a classic.

Russell Howard is a new comedic face to me. His show is like a modern day version of the Clive James Show but with much less drollery and, possibly, not quite so interesting guests.

I keep watching even though there's something not quite a hit about this show. Russell picks up well on contemporary culture but the frequent and blatant references to bodily parts and functions can tend to wear after a while.

The humour is boyish-smutty which Russell carries off well given his looks. There is some wit in there but its generally overwhelmed.

The final segment of the show is always a 'feel good' story from the press which, again, can be hit or miss. Given Russell's persona I'll never be sure whether the segment is there to help tone down the previous material.

Worth giving a try if you don't recoil from brash, younger comedians.

Miranda is a stunner, not in the physical sense, but in her comedy show. When you laugh from the first episode you know it must be good. This is Brit comedy at its very best with knowing looks to camera, witty dialogue and slapstick. Her shop reminds me of Black Books - customers take a back seat when it comes to Miranda's odd life. Each episode can stand on its own although the supporting character development is better watched from the first episode. I can't watch an episode of this without having a really good laugh (which is murder on my hernia I can tell you!). I really hope that this series keeps on going for a while as there's no sign of it losing its freshness at this stage. Give it a try.