Last night I watched a documentary on the classic comedy series of the 80s and 90s in the UK - Only Fools and Horses! So, what did I make of it?
First up, anyone growing up (or already grown up) in Britain knows about this sitcom, its characters, and its catchphrases.
Mangetout, mangetout.
Based on a market trader (Derek Trotter, played by David Jason) who's a 'wheeler dealer' type with delusions of grandeur, his brother Rodney (Nicholas Lyndhurst) and originally their grandfather (later that character was replaced with 'Uncle Albert'), it followed their quest to be successful businessmen and people.
They lived in a fairly run down council estate in Peckham, London but had far bigger aspirations (well 'Del Boy' did, Derek's affectionate nickname).
They were always just out of grasp until one day they found an old watch in their garage that sold for millions. Eventually they 'made it' but then found they missed the thrill of the chase. Not sure if they ended up losing it again, but that was the gist.
A true classic British comedy and enjoyed by most people. There were also a couple of iconic comic moments that will always have their place in history (eg. the chandelier; falling through the bar etc - if you know, you know ;)).
This particular documentary was a bit of the history, other comics and broadcasters discussing the show, and plenty of classic clips. The people chit-chatting included Jonathan Ross, John Thompson, Martin and Shirley Kemp, and a few other journalists and actors. They all had in common that they loved Only Fools and were filled with genuine humour and appreciation.
What struck me was that the creator and writer John Sullivan (who also appeared in old interview clips, but no longer with us) wrote all the episodes by himself. That's 64 of them, all those scenes, characters and gags from his own mind, transferred to our screens.
They went through some of the background of the great moments and a lot was at stake. The falling chandelier for example was imperative they did it in one take and didn't laugh, otherwise the scene and thus the series (and probably the whole show) was down the pan.
One scene that cracked me up was when Del had encouraged Albert to react in a certain way to Rodney's news. He tried but he kept getting all the wrong reactions at the wrong times. And when he should be doing it, he kept quiet.
One scene that wasn't included that I loved was when Rodney stitched up Del and he had to go hang gliding.
It also delved into some of Del's habits, mannerisms, questionable drinks, and unfortunate attempts at foreign language.
Of course there were plenty more characters involved other than the main three. Not least Trigger who had some classic action and lines over the years. Just ask 'Dave' ;).
This doc was 90 mins so a fair bit packed in. Worth a watch if you like the show (or even like a giggle). Plenty of clips in there, along with chat and analysis. You should be able to watch it on catch up on Channel 5 in the UK… or somewhere on the internet.
So was/is it Britain's favourite sitcom? It's certainly up there. In terms of popularity, longevity and all round entertainment, I can't think of anything better. So the title is not misleading and a good way to spend an hour and a half.
Drink up Trig, we're leaving.
Have you seen it? And what do you think of ol' 'Trotters Independent Traders' and their antics?? Adam
www.AdamBarratt.com
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