Only Child

Was expecting a comedy, but got a gentle comedic drama. The first episode didn't know which direction to go, but the actors carried it enough.

The second sets into a familiar situation for many, and there is enough humour to make you chuckle along with the set ups.

It has a slight feel of the A plan which Greg Mchugh was also in, replace autism with dementia. So I suspect he is on the production team, I haven't looked, but if he is he had used Christopher Ecclestona character with Gregor.

Jennifer Saunders on the phone of the agent, is fun. But obviously took a lot of influence from Toast of Londons agent.

Worth a watch under the influence or whilst laid up in bed I'll, but not appointment to view, it's not to be confused with still game, or rab c nesbit.

I loved this. The acting was great. Also if you have gone through any of the trials and tribulations of a parent/child or indeed child/parent relationship in the let's say twilight days you will fully appreciate the subtle humour.

In my opinion don't expect side splitting humour. Do expect a gentle warm feeling, and if you do so you will have a wonderful show. Remember the tv doesn't have to 'shout' at us, it sometimes can be a nice warming feeling.

The relationships in this story show a kind of sad bent of lost love, promised love and the danger of losing it again to pursue something that may give us a sense of achievement but at what cost?

Richard pays a visit on his dad Ken, twelve months after his mother Jean died. Keen to pay a flying visit, Richard discovers his dad needing a little bit of care and support.

Are some of the reviews based solely on the first episode, that's what it looks like, a first episode that sets the scene, introduces the character and situation, but fails to provide the laughs, from episode two onwards, it finds its feet.

Gregor Fisher and Greg McHugh are great as the father and son combination, they bounce off one another well, I just loved the odd job man in episode two, he was hilarious.

Give it a chance, it may not always be side splitting, but it has its moments, and at times it can be rather moving.

Is it me or has Gregor Fisher transformed into Frank Carson, if ever a role comes up to play the famous comedian, Fisher gets the job.

The best new BBC comedy for a long time.

8/10.

I really enjoyed watching 'Only Child' with my parents. It's a heartwarming, funny show that explores the complexities of the parent-child relationship in later years, capturing moments that my parents shared with their parents and inevitable experiences for my future too!

The film conveys that despite shared frustrations, love remains ever-present. I think everyone that has older parents, or has been through it, should watch it - your guilt will slide away and you'll have a chuckle too.

Plus, it's funny-even with the subtitles on for my hearing-impaired parents!!

Ignore the negative reviews!

Just finished binge watching the first series and having read poor reviews felt compelled to add my own. Thought it was understated, utterly charming and funny. The two main characters had good rapport, mainly due to the actors' portrayal and you could certainly identify with them. The humour was risky in parts which really made me laugh, but this was cleverly combined with an unassuming sensitivity. Despite their conflict and exasperation with one another, a genuine affection eventually broke through. It was extremely well written, a little reminiscent of After Life and I certainly hope that there will be a second series.