I discovered BBC comedy “Mandy” on the BBC iPlayer a couple of years ago, not long before series 2 was released.
This week I was pleased to find out that the show had returned for series 3 which I have already watched completely.
Comedy actress Diane Morgan, writes, stars and directs the show. Each episode following Mandy’s adventures while job seeking. Also featuring Michelle Greenridge as Lola, Tom Basden as the benefits advisor and Mark Wilcox playing various characters.
The show also attracts many guest stars wanting to feature, so a lot of cameos and well known stars in the series like Graham Norton, Beverley Mallard and Michaela Strachan. In the past Tony Way, Shaun Ryder, Natalie Cassidy etc.
Diane brilliantly portrays well meaning but unlucky job seeker Mandy in a visual way that just makes you smile. Mannerisms that you will not see portrayed elsewhere on TV with her funny lopsided walk and face. She is also a little deadpan as a character which adds to the humour.
The comedy is silly and a little far fetched, but that is what makes it appealing and so funny. Pure escapism unlike other comedies, watching Mandy try different jobs/careers.
Just watching Mandy carry around the longest of ladders single handed with ease (that could reach the top of a church spire) or going outside a plane to remove a bomb made me laugh. Such a creative mind that you will appreciate if you can disengage from reality.
From what I understand, it is very popular show which is good news as I want to see more. Hopefully the fact that this series looks as if it had a bigger budget, could also be a good sign. If you haven’t seen the show, do start from the beginning and don’t forget to find the single pilot short with the sofa that is also available on the iPlayer.
Each episode lasts about 15 minutes which is perfect for this style of comedy. I have started to rewatch series 1 and 2 as I enjoyed series 3 so much. Despite already viewing the earlier episodes before, they have had me crying with laughter still.
