Comedy Shows

Miranda.

Recently a national hit, Miranda Hart’s sitcom “Miranda,” was first aired on BBC Two on 9 November 2009. The situation comedy also features Sarah Hadland, Tom Ellis, Patricia Hodge, James Holmes and Sally Phillips. The show focuses around a socially awkward, joke-shop owner, who never fitted in with her boarding school friends. Miranda is a constant disappointment to her pressuring mother Penny who is desperate to find her a husband and a better job.

Miranda Hart - The star and writer.

“Miranda” is an old-fashioned, slap-stick comedy which plays on the physical elements rather than clever words as in a previous role for Hart – “Not Going Out.” This sets it aside from others in its field, and gives a refreshing change to many other programs – though, it also revisits the legendary, traditional humor that many people have seen in Only Fools and Horses, and Dad’s Army (which is, in fact, one of Hart’s inspirations).

The way the characters have been created encourages the viewer to adore them, as many people can relate to the endless misfortunes that shrouds Miranda. However, there is a certain aspect of absurdity that contradicts the normal sitcom; nevertheless this improves the hilarious humor. Mark Wright for The Stage said that Hodge gives a "brilliant, brilliant performance" and that "what sets Miranda out as something special is Hart herself, and the rest just gels around her."

To find this comedy funny, you have to love the characters and know their personal traits and “catch-phrases,” – much like F.R.I.E.N.D.S. So, you must be there at the beginning when they are introduced, otherwise, you may not understand various jokes.

Although, it may not be to the liking of some people’s taste as Hart’s writing can be repetitive at times. At certain points, you may catch yourself saying, “Haven’t I heard that before?” or “Didn’t she say that last week?” Catchphrases ARE funny, but only when you use them correctly without overpowering the episode. Side-splitting at the time, when watched over and over again, the hilarity might wear off and leave the viewer just smiling, which many comediennes do not want.

The cast of Miranda. (Left to Right) Gary (Tom Ellis), Penny (Patricia Hodge),
Miranda (Miranda Hart,), Stevie (Sarah Hadland) , Clive (James Holmes) and,
not shown in the picture, Tilly (Sally Phillips).

In many sitcoms, the main character shadows the under-developed, not-very-established protagonist. On the contrary, Miranda has created all the characters in such a way that they are as prominent as the main individual. Furthermore, they are all very different but compliment each other exceptionally well. Clive, the owner of the restaurant next door and the waiter, wasn’t very noticeable in the first series, although, now, Miranda has determined him as a well-known role in the show. This leaves doors open for other characters to be introduced.

There is also an underlining storyline that runs throughout the series: Miranda and Gary’s relationship. They are best-friends, and have had a recent (unsuccessful) romance together. They are the couple that every viewer desires to be together, much like a Ross and Rachel. As the thrill is in the chase and never in the capture, the moment Hart does decide to resume their relationship, it could develop unexcitingly.

So, we will just have to see what she has up her sleeve.

“Miranda,” receives 7.5/10