User Reviews

Below are a few reviews of Saxondale sent in by our readers during the broadcast of the first series. Our review system is now closed in preperation for the launch of comedy.org.uk, in the meantime if you'd like to post your own review or chat about the show why not see our message board?

Patrick - "A laugh of two"

I warmed up to this show after 2 or 3 episodes, it's the best effort from Coogan since 2002. No it's not going to dethrone the beloved Alan Partridge series, but c'mon this show gives us a laugh or two, without going after a simplistic catchphrase run of sketches. It's roads ahead of Paul Calf, Monkey Trousers and any of his Hollywood stuff. Coogan's Run had so much promise (even the Paul 'n Pauline Calf episode), where did that concept go?

Written by Patrick Moore (not that one), 26th August 2006

Walker - "In the end a huge slump"

Promising start. However, after the third episode I failed to see anything else in the comedy. The best episodes began the series and it finished with a huge slump in comedy. Shame, as I had faith in Steve Coogan to deliver another classic.

Written by Walker, 21st August 2006

Donna - "Rubbish!"

Rubbish, well to be expected. Escapes one trick pony tag by getting it right with Paul Calf as well as Alan.

Written by Donna, 7th July 2006

Scott - "Worth sticking with"

Promising start to Steve Coogan's new sitcom, although it's too early to say if this will reach the heights of I'm Alan Patridge. The opening episode took a while to get in gear, but once it did there were enough laughs to suggest that the show is worth sticking with. Things really picked up when Tommy's new assistant made an appearance and their mismatched relationship shows great promise. Saxondale is more of a slowburner than I'm Alan Patridge, so those expecting catch phrases galore and laugh out loud moments might be disappointed. This is comedy with a side order of self hatred and despair. Unusually for a BBC show, it's also intelligent, well written stuff with some excellent performances, so enjoy it whilst it lasts.

Written by Scott Thompson, 21st June 2006