Definition of classic:
‘….. something that is a perfect example of a particular style, something of lasting worth or with a timeless quality’. (Wikipedia)
‘Of the first class, of the highest rank or importance; approved as a model; standard, leading.’ (OED)
‘Only Fools and Horses’ is eminently justifiable as classic tv comedy. It was made and broadcast by the BBC – seven series were originally broadcast on BBC1 between 1981 and 1991, not forgetting the Christmas specials. In addition, episodes are regularly repeated on Gold. Wikipedia tells the story:
Set in Peckham in south London, it stars David Jason as ambitious market trader Derek "Del Boy" Trotter, Nicholas Lyndhurst as his younger brother Rodney, and Lennard Pearce as their ageing grandfather (later replaced by Buster Merryfield as their Uncle Albert). Backed by a strong supporting cast, the series chronicles their highs and lows in life, in particular their attempts to get rich.
After a relatively slow start the show went on to achieve consistently high ratings, and the 1996 episode "Time On Our Hands" holds the record for the highest UK audience for a sitcom episode, attracting 24.3 million viewers (over a third of the population).[12] Critically and popularly acclaimed, the series received numerous awards, including recognition from BAFTA, the National Television Awards and the Royal Television Society, as well as winning individual accolades for both Sullivan and Jason.[13] It was voted Britain's Best Sitcom in a 2004 BBC poll.[14]
It also had an impact on British culture, contributing several words and phrases to the English language and boosting the popularity of the Reliant Regal van. It spawned an extensive range of merchandise, including books, DVDs, toys and board games.[15] A spin-off series, The Green Green Grass, has run for four series in the UK. A prequel, Rock & Chips, was first aired in January 2010.
I’m on a hunt for more contenders for classic tv programmes – please submit your ideas and why you think they are classic. I will then hunt for classic clips if need be.
Looking forward to hearing from you….. lovely jubbly….
I can't deny that OF&H was a classic sitcom. However, as a result of its familiarity, longevity, whatever, I can't but help feel a deep unease when I see it being repeated. The original premise of the programme was great. It has real nuggets of comedy genius woven through the episodes... which for me is the problem. To get to the nuggets, you have to watch an endless circle of 'bound to fail' get rich quick schemes, that through repetition just make me depressed. I suppose I should feel uplifted at the Trotters endless refusal to be ground down by their own ineptitude, but I can't find it within myself. Possibly I lack a sense of humour, as I suspect I am out of tune with most of the population when it comes to sitcoms of any stripe.
ReplyDeleteMy top three classic TV programmes are; Edge of Darkness, A very British Coup and Nice Work. The latter, I've never seen repeated.
Best of luck on the blog Lisa. As Mr Trotter (Snr) would say, "Next year, we'll all be millionaires!"
Valid points Mr B. I loved Edge of Darkness, don't recall A Very British Coup and have attached here a clip from Episode 1 of Part 1 of Nice Work for you to enjoy whilst having a cup of coffee! Thanks for the comments.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHQuWjO9YN8
Hmm. Inspired to look at your link, it brought the memories back. I can't find it to buy on DVD, just proving that my taste in programmes doesn't match the norm. Though truth to tell, not matching the norm is something I revel in.
ReplyDelete