I write this review in response to the negatives ones on this site.
Personally I find the 'undateables' to be the most engrossing program to come from Channel 4 in years. Every single episode we're introduced to some of the most interesting, lovely and downright earnest people to be put on TV. A much needed break for viewers constantly bombarded with endlessly vapid 'reality' and 'celebrities try ( insert potentially mass market hobby here)' shows.
We're shown real people overcome troubles, torments and victories in regards to finding love, and I must say it is one hell of a ride. With each hurdle the viewer will find themselves genuinely feeling sad and frustrated, being shown directly the sheer complexity of these peoples problems.
However it isn't to say the emotion comes solely from these peoples disabilities, quite the opposite. With each awkward pause, each poorly delivered line we see people on REAL first dates, coming to terms with the challenge and overcoming it.
Which in turn brings us to the shows true highlights. We see our 'undateables' overcome their nerves, disabilities, and general lack of practice in the pursuit of something extremely important to them, which ALWAYS leaves me cheering, punching the air with absolute delight at the fact that the 'undatables' are very much dateable.
For those who believe this is a 'freak show' and berate the show for it, I find it most annoying. It would seem funny these same people who can't see what the show has to offer simply file it under something so pessimistically and hypocritically idiotic as 'freak show'.
The show is trying to show us the importance of love, and in showing us how difficult it is for some to find, we might be shown how important it truly is to love and be loved.
Sally Phillips is fantastic as the narrator too, keeping a calm yet engaged tone to her voice, enhancing each up and down accordingly. To say she is intentionally making fun of the 'undatables' is just idiocy. There are awesome laughs to be had watching the show, but they are certainly without malice.
Awesome, engaging, emotional show with some of the most interesting people to be on TV in years.
