|
Quite simply one of the most intelligently funny people on
the box today - Shaun Micallef presents, co-writes and performs
with immaculate ease and a good dose of quirkiness in what
was the third and final series of his ABC television sketch
comedy show "The Micallef P(r)ogram(me)" which ran
from 1998-2001.
All eight half hour episodes are here on this double disc
masterpiece.
A mixture of traditional live pieces mixed with pre-recorded
skits, Micallef turns the formula for Australian sketch comedy
on its head with non-stop zaniness, rightfully comparable
to his obvious influence "Monty Python".
Micallef found the perfect vehicle for his collection of
rubbery faces, satire and his favourite character: the idiot
variety show host in this series, which later was greeted
with less fanfare during his short lived - yet underrated
- Channel 9 tonight show in 2003.
The real strength of this show is due to its ensemble cast
of Roz Hammond (who has since appeared on the less impressive
"SKIThouse"), Wayne Hope and fellow 'Full Frontal'
refugee and regular sidekick Francis Greenslade. The show
is also blessed by a sharp writing partner in Gary McCaffrie
(who has worked with Micallef on several productions since).
The highlights of season 3 are many, but perhaps the most
memorable is the 'Sea Change'-esque sketch with Dracula relocating
to the east coast to be assistant coach of a local football
team (there's something about seeing Micallef in full Bram
Stoker's Dracula get up yelling in a Transylvanian accent
"Go for the specky, Willow!"), the recurring crap
plasticine animation of 'Attention, il est Myron!' and interview
awkwardness at its best when Micallef chats with Salvation
Army Chaplain, Pauline Cockburn (pronounced Co-Burn).
"Series Trois" is much slicker than the previous
two Micallef P(r)ogram(me) series, and is perfect for filling
in that spare 30 minutes here or there.
DVD Extras
For those people who enjoy their extras, there are endless
deleted sketches and more hidden easter eggs than you could
fit in any decent sized basket - it's quite impressive.
There is a slight let down with the cast commentaries which
seem far too serious for the material they are talking about.
Having said that, in true Micallef style, one episode has
a commentary performed solely by a barking dog.
Conclusion: Movie 80% Extras: 75%
|
