Mongrels

Used to really enjoy this when I was a teenager. I can still see the appeal: ambitious premise, raunchy humour, parody musical numbers, etc. But wow this hasn't aged very well. As of this review I've reached episode 3. I'm not one to clutch my pearls at edgy jokes but it comes at the cost of making the characters relatable/likeable (Marion dating THAT character). I forgot how many cutaway gags there were. There are way too many. It feels derivative of Scrubs or Family Guy. I think one got a genuine laugh from me and it was a blink and you'll miss it Trainspotting reference. That's another thing; the mileage will vary depending on how familiar you are with british culture. This show expects you to be very well-versed. Some of my favourite shows skew towards universal humour, and while it can be broad it usually hits the target. There are so many politicians, micro celebrities and quirks that went over my head given that I live in North America.

The show also feels a little too mean-spirited. Not in a fun way like It's Always Sunny. Just nihilistic. I don't need sacharin, but a little pathos wouldn't hurt. The show is also very hyperactive and contemporary. So much EDM. I can appreciate the energy but in some instances, the sound mixing can overlap with dialogue to the point of inaudibility. It's not a terrible show, but this could use a soft reboot. I do like the puppets and the craft is very impressive. However, the writing leaves a LOT to be desired.

I watched this last night for the first time after being told it was set on the isle of dogs (where i live) behind the lord nelson pub (which i frequent). I had no expectations as i thought it was going to be a lame puppet show...how wrong was I.

yes its offensive and crude, which i know people have complained about. ( i actually love it for this reason, i cant believe they get away with some of the comments).

The puppets look great and have some classic one liners, my fave being the pigeon and the cat.

this is not a very constructive review but anyone who is not easily offended and likes gutter humour should check this out, i hope it gets a second series. fingers crossed.

The first time I watched Mongrels I was instantly captivated. I always loved the muppets and other "puppet" TV shows when I was younger, and during my 20's I missed that feeling of inanimate objects projecting an unreal world that is so close to our own in feeling and depth.

I have rarely laughed so much before watching Mongrels, with it's on-the-edge sarcasm and casual use of inappropriate language and scenarios, which most older people might find offensive.

The fact is, the creators and animators and writers have found a pleasant and modern blend of comedy, puppetry and life dilemmas which make this show so addictive. If they don't commision another season then I will be devastated.

This show holds no bars, and is not for the faint hearted but it has certainly given me many, many laughs in it's first season.

Thank you to all who were involved in it's making :-)

Tired of middle class, middle of the road, Vicar of Dibley toss? Then this maybe the show for you. Sharper than a new addicts needle, Mongrels gets closer and closer to the bone, til you feel like a onanists knuckle. As well as taking shots at minor celebs and serious personalities alike(all in bad taste of course), Mongrels has sex, violence, death, drugs and uhhh...mice. It leaves nothing sacred. The characters are all pretty unique and at the same time cliché enough to be familiar. Influenced by the Young Ones, this goes way beyond that in the darkness of it's humour, but it never seems bleak, perhaps because it has bunnies... And while it is black it is rarely lacks a cutting edge and If these were humans this would never get on telly. Bravo.

Hello, darlings! Nelson here. Now, let me tell you about a little gem called Mongrels. This show was a delightful concoction of wit, charm, and unapologetic humor. It was a place where my metrosexual fox persona could truly shine, surrounded by a cast of eccentric characters that felt like family.

The puppetry was exquisite, the writing sharp, and the satire on urban life was spot on. It was a show that dared to be different, to push boundaries, and to make us laugh at the absurdities of life.

But then, the unthinkable happened. The BBC, in their infinite wisdom, decided to cancel it after just two seasons. The reason? Apparently, you need more than two people watching a programme to make it successful. Crazy talk, right?

As what Dan Tetsell (Voice of Marion) said in his message:

"Mongrels friends, it is my unbearably sad duty to announce that we will not be returning for a third series on BBC THREE, a decision that has been made based on the fact that apparently you need more than two people watching a programme to make it successful. Crazy talk."

It's a shame, really. The show had so much potential, and we were just getting started. But as they say, the show must go on... just not with us.

So, here's to Mongrels-a show that was ahead of its time, a show that made us laugh, think, and feel. And to the BBC, well... let's just say, I hope you find something that fills the void we left behind.