Randall & Hopkirk (Deceased)

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!

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.

The new Randall and Hopkirk(deceased) blows the original away. It is slick, stylish and cool in its retro way. Vic and Bob are perfect as Randall and Hopkirk, and the innovative story-lines hold the interest. With the superb special effects, good cinematography, and tight direction it is safe to say this series will go on for many years. I for one am glad of that.

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.