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.

Dear sirs,

I may be biased because I absolutely love Reeves and Mortimer (absolute geniuses, and I challenge anyone to contradict me!). This series is thoroughly enjoyable, and am delighted that it will soon be given a second run, and I'm always in stitches by the cameo appearances of Charlie Higson, Hitchcock-style, although not quite as hidden.

I'm not declaring it a perfect series, totally void of all annoyances (because, granted, Bob does look quite uncomfortable, and is evidently itching to start making an idiot of himself), however, it is very well written, even though I'm far too young to even know about the original series. The acting, I'm sure, will be improved upon in the second run, as this was their first proper go at something that needs, well, to be blunt, concentration, but it's all done with good humour and what I believe to be the pinnacle of great digital effects (or at least the pinnacle they could claim on their budget).

If you've never witnessed the first series, make some effort to watch the second, and if you don't have one smile in the entire episode, by all means, prove me wrong.

I think this update of an old favourite is surprisingly good!

Reeves and Mortimer handle their roles well - this isn't 'Rosencrantz and Guildenstern (Deceased)'.

The second series has been assured, polished and confident. There's been plenty of genuinely inspired laughs. First series are always shakey as the various ingredients take time to gel. Second time around I think the cast and crew have got it just right...

And the amiably insane Tom Baker plays Tom Baker as brilliantly as he always does!

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.