BBC Television in the naughties was defined by speed, in comedy, My Family and Two Pints of Lager were popular programs produced by gag factories whose output was prolific, but lacked subtlety. Drama series like Spooks and Hustle consisted of tense soundtracks, fast cuts and ever more outlandish story lines, held together by a slick style that hid the lack of real substance.
Recently however there has been a quiet revolution taking place, where series are allowed to be more thoughtful, scenes are given space to breathe and the jokes are more subtle and engaging as a consequence.
The first time I noticed this was in the excellent second series of Reggie Perrin, Martin Clunes played the straight man amongst a cast of semi ludicrous imbeciles, allowing him to dispense ascerbic wit, without resorting to easy gags. This was followed by the excellent Coogan and Brydon vehicle "the trip" an incredibly brave effort featuring the two comic actors as grotesque versions of themselves. Largely improvised and centred around a series conversations over dinner, watching these two comedians at the top of their game as they tried to out impression each other was a delight.
Finally in the drama stakes I have thoroughly enjoyed watching the exploits of detective "Zen". Beautifully shot in Rome and featuring a multinational cast (mainly the women, all the Italian men seem to hail from Ireland or Yorkshire) Zen is the absolute antithesis of the slick high paced action drama of recent years, scenes are allowed to draw out and dialogue flows naturally with Zen, played by Rufus Sewell often umming and erring his way through interrogations and conversations. The action is richer for the slower shots in between the more pacey scenes.
While the likes of Lucas and Walliams will continue to produce over the top television, the BBC is a richer experience for the recent more thoughtful shows.
Or maybe I am getting old?
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