Extras Series 2
Extras has returned to BBC 2 every thursday at 9pm, the new sitcom written and directed by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. Check back here for all Extras related content including a weekly episode guide / review updated right after each show is broadcast.
Episode One - Orlando Bloom
This first episode of the new series kicks off where series one left us, with Andy Millman inking a deal with the BBC to produce a Sitcom. Differences were apparent back then and things get off to a shakey start here with the realization that a new dumbed-down broad sitcom is in the making, completely different to the vision originally had by Andy (and many will notice the obvious parallel views with Ricky Gervais's thoughts himself regarding The Office and it's audience). Orlando Bloom tries to convince Maggie he is attractive while Keith Chegwin steps in to play a part in Andy's sitcom, to frustrating consequences.
The expectation was incredibly high for this second series of Extras (after such critical acclaim for Ricky and Stephen's previous work) but I believe it certainly lived up to the hype. The comedy is amazing and constant, the acting is superb by all those involved and what makes the show work so well is what has served the duo well up to now, depth. This doesn't feel like a sitcom, more like the most hilarious drama we've ever seen. Judging from this first episode, the long wait between each project seems like it'll be worth it once again.
Episode Three - Daniel Radcliffe
Episode three continues the fall of Andy Millman, which appears to be happening a lot faster then his rise to celebrity status. The media is already at his throat, every worst case scenario is unfolding and it seems not even dim-witted Maggie can raise a smile. Daniel Radcliffe of Harry Potter fame plays the opposite of how the public see him, a sexually obsessed arrogant but ultimately immature and scared child. Being a huge Ricky Gervais fan can have its downsides as although the standard is high, the topics covered and events do feel like we've seen this all before but none the less it's a highly entertaining episode and keeps Extras high above any other sitcom out there.
Episode Six - Robert Lindsay
Watching this final episode of this series was quite a horrible event. Not because of the content but knowing I was watching the last of what has been an amazing series, every joke had me laughing then bursting into tears as the end was that much closer. In this episode, we see agent Darren given his last chance, Maggie abondoned by Andy in favour of Jonathon Ross and another disabled child who expects more then Andy wants to give.
From a low point mid-way through, the quality quickly returned to form and once again Mr Gervais and Merchant has left us wanting more. A third series is unlikely with rumours of a move from comedy to drama, although if the public received this series as well as I did, a christmas special or future one-off could be in the making.
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