Count Arthur Strong

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

This is one example when you should not go after the user scores (7.3, really?). First I thought that this show could not be any good according to some reviews, then I thought that Graham Linehan, you know the "IT Crowd man", can't fail so big. And I was right. I mean the second thought. This show is really good. I'm not the type who laughs aloud if front of the TV, or in the cinema, but sometimes I was wiping my tears watching the Count (or IT Crowd for that matter). I can't wait to see the 3rd season. After a while you just cannot not like the characters, especially Count Arthur Strong (Steve Delaney). In the beginning it felt stupid and overplayed, but after you get the hang of is, it's just amazing. Rory Kinnear and all the supporting actors are also great. This is sitcom as it should be. And a lesson to Hollywood, that you can do a Frank Drebin/Pink panther/Mr. Magoo-type of ridiculous entertainment well. I've decided not caring what anyone says, I'm going to watch anything Mr. Linehan created/creates/will be creating from now on. That means that I'm a fan of him (or something).

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.

Count Arthur Strong is one of the best sitcoms to show on British TV in donkey's years. Goodness knows what the first reviewer of this superbly written and laugh out loud programme was watching, but comparing it to Miranda is like comparing the Likely Lads to Cheers. Count Arthur Strong is an ageing 'jack of all trades' entertainer, with a slightly deluded view of his place in the world (think Arthur Lowe in Potter). His crackpot ideas and the fact that he is so out of touch with modern times and technology make for some great comedy. Graham Linehan (Father Ted) has always had a rather surreal way of writing and developing a storyline, with many back references and 'out of the blue' lines. That might make the characters a little harder to get to know, but the effort is well worth while. With this, and the return of Citizen Khan, the BBC is back on the right track..

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.