Randall & Hopkirk (Deceased)

Thank goodness someone producing British TV realises that some people out here have intelligence and understand sophisticated wit. Charlie Higson is one of those people. I never saw more than three episodes of the original show, but because this series stands on its own, we can disregard it.

All of the episodes so far have been well-constructed and work with the characters to develop them (the relationship between Jeff and Jeannie is very well done) but also manage to stand as entertaining on their own with Higson's directing of 'Paranoia' probably being the best yet. The editing and effects are superb, and whilst they are necessary they never intrude of the show itself, simply complimenting the writing. As for the acting...I never really found Reeves and Mortimor funny before, but in this they are both likeable and very good at being real characters as well. The casting of Tom Baker as Wyvern was just another masterstroke and Emilia Fox brings a heart to the show with Jeannie. The guest stars are always in the spirit of the show but never dominate.

All together superb. There is intelligent life in the world of 'Dateline: Jerusalem' and 'Whatever You Want' and it's responsible for this show.

I've only seen three episodes of *Randall and Hopkirk, Deceased* on BBCAmerica, but so far I ***love*** it. This is a VERY funny show, yet the humor (unlike most comedies, these days) comes from the situation--not at the expense of the characters. These characters are LIKABLE--Jeff Randall is sweet, and lovable, and very much someone you'd like to see happy and successful. But Jeff has a problem--he's an INCOMPETENT detective, who's partner is now dead, and haunts him as a ghost. As ghoulish as the concept sounds, it's actually a very funny series--one sympathises a lot with Jeff.

Marty, Jeff's now dead partner brings a great deal of energy to his part--he's a ghost who needs training wheels, since he hasn't quite got the hang of things yet. Tom Baker plays, Wyrvnn (and I know that's probably spelled wrong)--a spirit who is trying to teach Marty the ropes of being a ghost.

Then there's Jeannie--Marty's fiancée (Marty died on their wedding day). Jeff's falling in love with her; but neither wants to betray Marty's memory.

Jeannie cannot see Marty--only Jeff can. Jeannie has also maneuvered her way into Jeff's business, becoming his new detective-partner. (Jeannie is, at least, much more competent at detective work than either Jeff or Marty).

Anyway--great series, lots of fun. Extremely funny, but with sympathetic characters. Definitely a winner! Oh, and it *is* a re-make of a late 60s/early 70s series--but I've never seen that version, so I can't comment on it.

Granted, the first episode was a bit of a mess, but from then on out it has only got better. It's a mad, mad world that R and H is set in, an eccentric mix of luxury, leather jackets and very fine-looking cars with more than a dash of 60s style. What other show can boast this? Vic and Bob have both settled into their roles well, Bob especially doing well in the scene where he was posessed by Marty. I admit the will-they-won't-they 'tension' between Jeff and Jeannie is way overplayed, but it's a laugh. The scripts are good enough by the standards of a sketch writer who I have no doubt will improve his plotting skills as the series goes on. Regarding the second series, it has already been commissioned on the strength of initial ratings, so let's sit back, relax and enjoy the madness while it lasts, and take it for what it is - a quirky, funny, often touching melodrama featuring a pair of very funny men acting their socks off, all topped off by the best effects since sliced bread.

Having just seen the fourth episode of this new series I feel I can now safely say that it's the funniest show I've seen in years! Not being a Reeves & Mortimer fan (until now that is) I've never seen any of their comedy stuff, so I had no idea what to expect when it was announced they were doing a remake of Randall & Hopkirk. I am an avid fan of the original R&H series however and would be first to yell out if I thought they were making a mess of it. But they're not. It's a fantastic updated version of what was a fantastic 'cult' show; it's NOT a remake, more of a homage. It's fantasy, it's fun, and that's the whole point of the show! I can't wait for the second series. Nice one Vic and Bob.

Stories are good, effects are great, I love the slightly over saturated colours (or is that just my old TV?) and great soundtrack all make this series feel totally unique. With Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer in the main roles you'd expect lots of humour and to the credit of everyone involved this isn't so evident as you might expect. There is humour but it's much lower key as to what you'd normally expect from these two. I've just got the DVD and will be watching it alot.