Just started watching this again and it hasn't aged at all. It's still brilliant which I'm pleasantly surprised by because a lot of comedy hasn't. Just great!
40 Reviews
Still hilarious 20 years on.
naomimuldrew276 July 2021
Very Funny
agmoldham1 December 2003
This is what comedy, and for that matter films, are all about. The characters are deep, real and extremely funny. The beauty is that these are all people we know. At times you may not notice, but Peter Kaye plays several of the characters. My personal favourite is fire officer Keith Lard who interferes with dogs in the worst possible way and has no connection whatsoever with Keith Laird of Bolton Fire Service. Max and Paddy probably take the prize of the regular crew. One of the great things about this series is that every time you watch it, you spot something else that's funny and make sure you listen to the music that's playing. The good news is that series 2 is now out and Max and Paddy will return in their own programme at some point.
best modern comedy available!!!!!
thecoft017 July 2006
I must admit that the league of gentlemen and the office come very close to this as a comedy series, but phoenix nights has it all! the office is brilliant but, there is only one main joke, David Brent, obviously Gareth, Keith and Tim are amazing too but there is only so far you can push this humour, as you end up cringing at Brent sometimes (oi Brent, give it up!) the league of gentlemen is also absolute class, but i think there's a bit more of a story in phoenix nights and as they are all milling about under one roof the opportunities for gags are endless.
don't get me wrong i do love the league of gentlemen and i know it does have a very entertaining and fulfilling storyline but (maybe its because I'm from up north) i just think phoenix nights has the edge.
there are more "spit your tea out" laughs in P.N and continual background gags, also the ability of Peter Kay to play 3 roles, each equally funny, just makes this the best modern comedy available! little Britain comes nowhere near, its fairly funny in parts but too repetitive.
people have recommended the mighty Busch which i have not watched yet.
don't get me wrong i do love the league of gentlemen and i know it does have a very entertaining and fulfilling storyline but (maybe its because I'm from up north) i just think phoenix nights has the edge.
there are more "spit your tea out" laughs in P.N and continual background gags, also the ability of Peter Kay to play 3 roles, each equally funny, just makes this the best modern comedy available! little Britain comes nowhere near, its fairly funny in parts but too repetitive.
people have recommended the mighty Busch which i have not watched yet.
Wonderful!
RussianPantyHog2 July 2004
When I was a lad my father used to take me & my brothers to a Working Mens Club on Saturday nights. It was AWFUL! Old people sat at regimented benches miserably supping ale, useless ventriloquists, tone-deaf singers, crap magicians & an obese nut-case who used to wander around selling cockles and mussels.
But we LOVED the place!
Peter Kay is a genius. He's got such a wonderfully original and quintessentially English sense of humour. Yeah! We love being "little Englanders" and I've laughed my head off throughout every episode of Phoenix Nights. I doubt this show will ever be seen outside Britain & I'm sure that people from other countries who live/work here will be utterly mystified by it, however. Peter Kay is the patron saint of the northern working class, of which I'm a proud member. "Top bomber!"
But we LOVED the place!
Peter Kay is a genius. He's got such a wonderfully original and quintessentially English sense of humour. Yeah! We love being "little Englanders" and I've laughed my head off throughout every episode of Phoenix Nights. I doubt this show will ever be seen outside Britain & I'm sure that people from other countries who live/work here will be utterly mystified by it, however. Peter Kay is the patron saint of the northern working class, of which I'm a proud member. "Top bomber!"
Bring Phoenix Nights to the USA!
Bobbymak88024 April 2004
Some British Comedies don't translate into US sensibilities and are not as funny outside of the UK. Phoenix Nights is NOT one of those. This series is a well-crafted set of stories taking place in a small working-class night club that will keep you laughing long after you press the STOP button. Phoenix Nights works on many levels but it starts with a tight script, delivered with verve by a widely talented cast, flawlessly directed and photographed, every character in the series that contributes a vital beingness to this story of a worn-formica nightclub in Northern England. The sets, staging and costumes are as rich in comedic detail as are the intertwining plots. And the vacuum-tight editing of the series make this one of those shows you'll watch again and again. And if watching Phoenix Nights for laughs isn't enough reason for you to purchase these DVDs, then purchase them to use as a textbook example of how a creative ensemble can work together to produce a first-rate comedy series and put together an informative and entertaining commentary track. Phoenix Nights is the best reason for Americans to purchase a multi-region/multi-standard DVD player. Phoenix Nights may be the most entertaining TV series America never gets to see. If you're NOT in the UK or Europe, here's what you gotta do: - bite the bullet and buy the DVD's from AMAZON.CO.UK and watch it on your computer (The DVD's are Region 2; non-US), or - spend a few bucks and get an all-region DVD player and then watch it via your stereo-connected wide-screen TV, or - sit around and hope and pray that UK's Channel 4 exports the show to a US network.
Real working class, not Oxbrige who studied what working class is
jemmajemmajemma25 March 2019
I live in the south of England and I can still recognise the situations in a cr ap club, but it's still a brilliant club as a local social meeting place. I had a feeling the writers were real working class, as so much comedy on TV is taken over by Oxbrige ex footlights people, so it's good others have a chance and can show real is better than studying for years what working class people are supposed to be like.
I envy how good the northerners are at bringing humour to everyday situations. They aren't stuffy and find it easy to laugh things.
The bouncy castle reminded me of a real viral video where children were unknowingly sliding out of a part that looked rude, so made me laugh extra loud when something similar was brought to the show.
Absolutely hilarious comedy!
general-melchett24 January 2007
Let's be honest here - comedies set in working men's clubs are now an old idea now. Phoenix Nights is great, however, and is made better by the fact that it all could happen in real life. Some of the gags are hilarious - and it is good to see how this show has not been ruined by a rubbish third series. My favourite episode was the one where Brian Potter and the guys held a fun day to reopen the Phoenix Club - I was literally wetting myself with laughter when "Sammy Snake" rose up in front of an audience watching Jerry sing. The second series is personally my favourite, but the first series has such brilliant things to offer as - a racist folk band, a Western evening from hell, and the prospect of a horrible future for the Phoenix Club. It set the way for a second series, and it is good to see how that managed to maintain the strength of this show's comedy - it can also be quite moving in parts. Phoenix Nights saw when it reached its peak and stopped before it jumped the shark - unlike Little Britain, which is constantly being mined for a hint of a gag and will soon become rather hated than loved. And Brian Potter can be far funnier than Andy and Lou. This was definitely the thing that established Peter Kay as one to be reckoned with - and I can see why. Phoenix Nights is pure genius - prepare to be amused! 9/10
Northernly BRILLIANT!
david-299116 July 2006
Warning: Spoilers
I'd love to give this series about 100/10! The humour in this series is so original, I suppose it helps that I live in Bolton and completely relate to the comedy! I was surprised to hear that when the DVDs were released they sold more in the south of England than they did in the North, but I wonder why southerners "mock" us northerners but they love the comedy produced. I have to say my favourite episode was the pilot episode, with the opening of the club, and "send the buggers back!". I seriously hope Peter Kay and his fellow writers have enough material to produce a third series, it would be brilliant! My favourite character is Ray Vonn, including the Tracy Burns story lines! I also think the auditions at the end of the episodes are hilarious - bring more of it please!!!!!!
Fantastic
IridescentTranquility7 January 2005
Warning: Spoilers
As a person from the North, I love this. How can anyone not love it? There is so much that is great about Phoenix Nights. One of the things I like most is the way Peter Kay has made all of the characters so real. Brian Potter seems to be out for all he can get - he's a very rounded character. The characters' reactions to all the different situations are ingenious and - to an extent - it is a topical programme. I hope one day people will start to think of it as a British classic. Two episodes I particularly love are the Crimewatch UK-style programme that features the Phoenix Club and also the way the characters rally round for the Stars In Their Eyes night. I have no idea how they came up with so many different acts and so many different costumes. I think the sense of community at the Phoenix Club is an important factor in holding the character together, and I love the way Brian Potter can't stop acting like the manager, even after Jerry St Clair has (supposedly) taken over. People may not like Phoenix Nights but everyone should at least try it.
Highly underrated comedy.
neil-arsenal13 July 2012
This is hilarious. It really is. Peter Kay, quite rightly, was accused of theft by releasing 'new' stand up DVDs...when it was exactly the same show in a different arena! However, I can forgive anything after seeing Phoenix Nights. The 'Crimewatch' episode is incredibly funny.
The supporting cast is perfect and each one is brilliant in their own right.
The humour is very, very British...north west British.
The first thing I remember was seeing a guy driving and listening to the radio...he was listening to 'Chorley FM'. To hear the DJ shout 'Chorley FM...comin' in yer ears' had me helpless from the first minute.
Absolute gem and it has aged (ok only a decade old) very well.
The supporting cast is perfect and each one is brilliant in their own right.
The humour is very, very British...north west British.
The first thing I remember was seeing a guy driving and listening to the radio...he was listening to 'Chorley FM'. To hear the DJ shout 'Chorley FM...comin' in yer ears' had me helpless from the first minute.
Absolute gem and it has aged (ok only a decade old) very well.
Mary, Joseph and the Baby Jesus
act_of_bob18 March 2009
It seems strange why Peter Kay, Dave Spikey and Neil Fitzmaurice had to rewrite their previous vehicle "That Peter Kay Thing" when the elements of Phoenix Nights already lay within that underrated little gem; perhaps an issue over writing credits. The result is perhaps one of Channel 4's all-time great comedy's that surely rank alongside Father Ted and Spaced. From beginning to end Phoenix Night's combines side-splitting and subtle humour that will leave you laughing long after the dvds sell-by date, and a highly emotive storyline that will draw you in right up to the Goodnight Vienna credit.
Phoenix Night's is an ageing working-man's club operated by the cantankerous Brian Potter (Kay) and his compère (Spikey), who both seek to organise wackier events to draw in the locals. Despite their hard-fought efforts you can rely upon their crack-brained schemes to end in chaotic hilarity; such as organising a gun-slinging contest between Lancashire and Yorkshire, or booking a highly inappropriate pyhsic.
Another strength of the series is the use of Kay's comedic friends and the local residents of Bolton, transforming what could have been a run-of-mill situation comedy into an entirely believable working- class environment that could have been plucked from any working- town in England. As such the characterisation and interaction between the actors and the locals will leave you identifying with the characters and coming to love or hate them as much you would with any local club in your community..
Kay stated he is so proud of what they accomplished with Phoenix Nights, and it is impossible to disagree: Phoenix Nights is flawless.
Phoenix Night's is an ageing working-man's club operated by the cantankerous Brian Potter (Kay) and his compère (Spikey), who both seek to organise wackier events to draw in the locals. Despite their hard-fought efforts you can rely upon their crack-brained schemes to end in chaotic hilarity; such as organising a gun-slinging contest between Lancashire and Yorkshire, or booking a highly inappropriate pyhsic.
Another strength of the series is the use of Kay's comedic friends and the local residents of Bolton, transforming what could have been a run-of-mill situation comedy into an entirely believable working- class environment that could have been plucked from any working- town in England. As such the characterisation and interaction between the actors and the locals will leave you identifying with the characters and coming to love or hate them as much you would with any local club in your community..
Kay stated he is so proud of what they accomplished with Phoenix Nights, and it is impossible to disagree: Phoenix Nights is flawless.
Bolton's premiere entertainment hot spot is open for business.
smellthecult-com-127 December 2009
Warning: Spoilers
Peter Kay's sublime comedy is a wonderful pastiche of Northern working class life.
Brian Potter runs a tacky club called The Phoenix Club, where the locals are entertained by talentless talent shows, singers that can't hold a note, and even a Lancashire version of Robot Wars. Kay himself plays a dazzling array of characters, and each episode focuses on 'crisis of the week'.
Sarcastic, crude and ball blazingly funny, this is an absolute joy. The character interplay is superb, and there is genuine pathos at times. People who have never experienced working class life may struggle to understand some of the references - it has chilling echoes of The British Legion horrors from my youth(!) - though there is surely something here for everyone.
Eschewing pratfalls and slapstick for cutting one-liners and excellent situation comedy, this is both essential viewing and well worthy of multiple viewings.
A gem.
Brian Potter runs a tacky club called The Phoenix Club, where the locals are entertained by talentless talent shows, singers that can't hold a note, and even a Lancashire version of Robot Wars. Kay himself plays a dazzling array of characters, and each episode focuses on 'crisis of the week'.
Sarcastic, crude and ball blazingly funny, this is an absolute joy. The character interplay is superb, and there is genuine pathos at times. People who have never experienced working class life may struggle to understand some of the references - it has chilling echoes of The British Legion horrors from my youth(!) - though there is surely something here for everyone.
Eschewing pratfalls and slapstick for cutting one-liners and excellent situation comedy, this is both essential viewing and well worthy of multiple viewings.
A gem.
An early Peter Kay outing
studioAT14 April 2017
He may be currently winning acclaim with 'Car Share' but this show was one of the first occasions where Peter Kay burst into the publics imagination.
There are all the hallmarks of his ability being displayed here, from great verbal and sight humour, and also some lovely characters, all of whom are real and relatable.
It's not as consistently funny as 'Car Share' is, but Kay was still learning his craft. Each episode of this show though does have it's memorable and quotable moments.
Have a watch if you get the chance.
There are all the hallmarks of his ability being displayed here, from great verbal and sight humour, and also some lovely characters, all of whom are real and relatable.
It's not as consistently funny as 'Car Share' is, but Kay was still learning his craft. Each episode of this show though does have it's memorable and quotable moments.
Have a watch if you get the chance.
hilarious comedy based in the North West of England
didi-527 February 2005
This comedy, which ran for two series, was co-written by and starred (in several roles), Bolton comic Peter Kay, who has his finger perfectly on the breathing pulse of North West England (speaking as someone the same age as Kay who comes from a part of the NW not a million miles from Bolton). Phoenix Nights was set in a lousy Northern club with 'entertainment', bingo, and droll staff, just the kind of club that existed in the 1970s and 1980s.
Brian Potter, owner and sometime licensee, is wheelchair bound and sarcastic, with his wingeing voice and blustering manner. Played by Kay he is a great creation. The main target for Brian's verbal attacks is Jerry 'St Clair' (Dave Spikey) who acts as compère and - at times - terrible entertainer. Doormen Max (Kay again) and Paddy (Patrick McGuinness) went on to have their own spin-off series.
Alongside the long-running feud between Potter and Den Perry (Ted Robbins), the high points of Phoenix Nights includes the variety 'auditions' which ended each episode (who could forget the doves which flew into the air condition fans, or the ping pong lady?). The audience at the Phoenix were real-life Bolton residents, and their reactions are absolutely genuine.
I have two favourite episodes - the one with the outdoor entertainment ('Sammy the Snake' (!), and the Children's Activity Hut, formerly the Gents loo); and the Stars in Their Eyes episode (with the jam-jar glassed club worker as Gary Glitter, and Jerry and Brian as Elton John and George Michael).
It ended far too soon but the two series that were made are the stuff that makes classic comedy.
Brian Potter, owner and sometime licensee, is wheelchair bound and sarcastic, with his wingeing voice and blustering manner. Played by Kay he is a great creation. The main target for Brian's verbal attacks is Jerry 'St Clair' (Dave Spikey) who acts as compère and - at times - terrible entertainer. Doormen Max (Kay again) and Paddy (Patrick McGuinness) went on to have their own spin-off series.
Alongside the long-running feud between Potter and Den Perry (Ted Robbins), the high points of Phoenix Nights includes the variety 'auditions' which ended each episode (who could forget the doves which flew into the air condition fans, or the ping pong lady?). The audience at the Phoenix were real-life Bolton residents, and their reactions are absolutely genuine.
I have two favourite episodes - the one with the outdoor entertainment ('Sammy the Snake' (!), and the Children's Activity Hut, formerly the Gents loo); and the Stars in Their Eyes episode (with the jam-jar glassed club worker as Gary Glitter, and Jerry and Brian as Elton John and George Michael).
It ended far too soon but the two series that were made are the stuff that makes classic comedy.
As perfect as it gets
asthomas196316 September 2022
Just watched this again after so many years. Nostalgia has neither enhanced or dimmed the sheer brilliance of this show. Kay's genius lies in nailing everything we knew and loved about social clubs and the people who worked and frequented them. Those lucky enough to have lived in those times will have experienced so many episodes and little vignettes of the sort of madness that goes on in these places, plus how they acted as the glue for working class communities.
Still incredibly funny, it should be placed in a time capsule as an example of how to create a sit-com. The casting, locations, timing and direction are of the highest order. It is a joy for everyone. Utterly peerless.
Still incredibly funny, it should be placed in a time capsule as an example of how to create a sit-com. The casting, locations, timing and direction are of the highest order. It is a joy for everyone. Utterly peerless.
Classic comedy with a great mix of talent
snoozejonc24 November 2023
After first watching Pheonix Nights during its original release and numerous times over the past 22 years it has lost none of it's power to make me laugh.
Brian Potter is a great lead comedy character, up there with likes of Trotter, Fletcher, Fawlty, Partridge and Brent. Peter Kay plays and writes the character incredibly well. What makes it work is the combination of Brian with the supporting characters. Dave Bramwell's Jerry and Neil Fitzmaurice's Ray Von are also fantastic creations. As a combined writing/performance team they should always work together in my eyes.
Other characters all have memorable moments played perfectly by performers like Steve Edge, Toby Foster, Janice Connolly, Archie Kelly, Justine Moorhouse, Paddy McGuinness, Ted Robins and Daniel Kitson.
Visually it feels like a classic working man's club in a town not unlike my own in South Wales. I think this, plus all the Northern English humour makes it feel authentic and brilliantly observed by the writers and filmmakers.
If Kay and the others have good ideas to follow it up with a third series or movie, I hope they do so, as it would be both a travesty and a waste if more of their creativity to goes untapped. I am unsure about other areas of Britain, but "Clubland" is dying in my community, as the population ages and the younger generations socialise differently. The writers could use this theme to give the characters and culture a poignant and proper send off.
I have reviewed each episode individually on IMDB.
Brian Potter is a great lead comedy character, up there with likes of Trotter, Fletcher, Fawlty, Partridge and Brent. Peter Kay plays and writes the character incredibly well. What makes it work is the combination of Brian with the supporting characters. Dave Bramwell's Jerry and Neil Fitzmaurice's Ray Von are also fantastic creations. As a combined writing/performance team they should always work together in my eyes.
Other characters all have memorable moments played perfectly by performers like Steve Edge, Toby Foster, Janice Connolly, Archie Kelly, Justine Moorhouse, Paddy McGuinness, Ted Robins and Daniel Kitson.
Visually it feels like a classic working man's club in a town not unlike my own in South Wales. I think this, plus all the Northern English humour makes it feel authentic and brilliantly observed by the writers and filmmakers.
If Kay and the others have good ideas to follow it up with a third series or movie, I hope they do so, as it would be both a travesty and a waste if more of their creativity to goes untapped. I am unsure about other areas of Britain, but "Clubland" is dying in my community, as the population ages and the younger generations socialise differently. The writers could use this theme to give the characters and culture a poignant and proper send off.
I have reviewed each episode individually on IMDB.
It sucked
andrew-hill51521 June 2022
I never got why this was considered to be funny. It wasn't funny at all. I only barely remember it because it was boring, but I do remember being confused why anyone would like it, but the one person I know who thought it was funny also thought The League of Gentlemen was funny, so that's hardly a ringing endorsement.
Outstanding
motor8910 March 2001
'Phoenix nights' is destined to become a classic of British comedy, in the same league as 'Fawlty Towers' and 'I'm Alan Partidge'. It really is that good.
The humour is clever, observational, very politically incorrect and oh-so Northern England. As with all really excellent comedy it draws you in and makes you fond of the characters, despite their many flaws. You all know the type of people in this show because you see them everyday at home and work.
'Phoenix nights' follows Brian and his attempts to rebuild his nightclub for the third time... most recently after it burnt to the ground (hence the name phoenix). Peter Kay plays many of the parts himself (all brilliantly) including Brian, the club owner and memorable of all, Keith Lard the fire inspector with some odd personal habits. Quite apart from Kay, every single actor in the show does a superb job capturing the quirks and oddities that make human life so amusing... there's not one single bad performance.
The only possible problem is that it's hard to tell how well it will travel. Many of the jokes are, as I mentioned earlier, very British and even more specifically, very Northern.
The humour is clever, observational, very politically incorrect and oh-so Northern England. As with all really excellent comedy it draws you in and makes you fond of the characters, despite their many flaws. You all know the type of people in this show because you see them everyday at home and work.
'Phoenix nights' follows Brian and his attempts to rebuild his nightclub for the third time... most recently after it burnt to the ground (hence the name phoenix). Peter Kay plays many of the parts himself (all brilliantly) including Brian, the club owner and memorable of all, Keith Lard the fire inspector with some odd personal habits. Quite apart from Kay, every single actor in the show does a superb job capturing the quirks and oddities that make human life so amusing... there's not one single bad performance.
The only possible problem is that it's hard to tell how well it will travel. Many of the jokes are, as I mentioned earlier, very British and even more specifically, very Northern.
Shame i cant vote. I'd give it 11/10
nickthegun20 February 2003
Clubland will never die.
Well not if Peter Kay keeps treating us to this little lovely. Phoenix Nights is one of those rare comedies. Rare as in its actually funny (see Ed Stone is dead'. Which is so unfunny its basically the Anti-Phoenix').
Anyone who has grown up in the north will instantly recognise virtually everything that happens in the Phoenix. The theme nights, the cheesy compere, the ugly regulars who sit there all day on a pint of mild. Its all there. Which is one of peter kays strengths. Brilliant observation in all of his work.
The writing is incredibly strong and the performances are first rate. The comedy set pieces in each episode will have you in tears (The Stannah Stairlift Seduction' and the Erotic Bouncy castle' are standouts).
Season 1 and 2 are, in my opinion, equally as good as each other. And, although it isn't really fair to judge the two together, I actually prefer the Phoenix to The Office. Judged purely on laugh out loud moments Peter Kays superb series just edges it for me.
I didn't think it could get any funnier. Then I watched the DVD with the directors commentary .
Well not if Peter Kay keeps treating us to this little lovely. Phoenix Nights is one of those rare comedies. Rare as in its actually funny (see Ed Stone is dead'. Which is so unfunny its basically the Anti-Phoenix').
Anyone who has grown up in the north will instantly recognise virtually everything that happens in the Phoenix. The theme nights, the cheesy compere, the ugly regulars who sit there all day on a pint of mild. Its all there. Which is one of peter kays strengths. Brilliant observation in all of his work.
The writing is incredibly strong and the performances are first rate. The comedy set pieces in each episode will have you in tears (The Stannah Stairlift Seduction' and the Erotic Bouncy castle' are standouts).
Season 1 and 2 are, in my opinion, equally as good as each other. And, although it isn't really fair to judge the two together, I actually prefer the Phoenix to The Office. Judged purely on laugh out loud moments Peter Kays superb series just edges it for me.
I didn't think it could get any funnier. Then I watched the DVD with the directors commentary .
Bring this to Canada!
SammyK5 September 2003
Just by fluke, I happened to catch an episode of this funny-as-all-hell show while vacationing in the UK. To the powers that be (being the TV station heads here in Canada): please pick up Phoenix Nights, and begin airing episodes here ASAP! This is too funny to miss! And as a plug to Canadian audiences: This could easily be a British companion piece to our "Trailer Park Boys" (except way better!)
garlic bread IS the future =)
asio-119 July 2004
Peter Kay / Dave Spikey are stand up comedians, very funny ones @ that along with Neil (shabba!) fitzpatrick, hopefully they are getting the reorganization for their work now. They draw a lot of comedy from real life things, which is why things like PN is so funny. (Fawty Towers, is another good example of such a thing).
I have a friend from up north (near Bolton) was shocked I knew about such working man clubs. Thing is, if your Irish, or of Irish origins, like me and used to go Irish clubs with parents, its really the same thing, and you can relate.
This show and the stand up comedy DVD's Peter / Dave have done, will have you laughing esp. the "bolton halls - mum needs a bungalow" one. They were clever in making the series as there is SO much scope with it, and hopefully more series will follow.
If you are a Brit abroad, or have watched a lot of UK TV, you would relate to many things , such as Jim "the" Bowen (super/smashing/great) being featured in it. Maybe other people would miss some of the jokes, but there is jokes in there everyone would get.
Some jokes are very subtle, and it's one you'd have to re-watch. Which is good, Naked gun, Aeroplane etc are the same in that respect. I think its like comedy I've watched from oversea's such as kids in the hall, red & green show etc. Although some of the jokes are localised, there are things in there to make you laugh.
If you like comedy which is based on real life , you'll like this. The cast is good, except the one who was the youth club dj.. he slated the show later after winning an award.. I don't find him as funny as a stand up comedian anyway, just thought it was a bit snipey TBH
DEN PERRY DID IT!!! =)
I have a friend from up north (near Bolton) was shocked I knew about such working man clubs. Thing is, if your Irish, or of Irish origins, like me and used to go Irish clubs with parents, its really the same thing, and you can relate.
This show and the stand up comedy DVD's Peter / Dave have done, will have you laughing esp. the "bolton halls - mum needs a bungalow" one. They were clever in making the series as there is SO much scope with it, and hopefully more series will follow.
If you are a Brit abroad, or have watched a lot of UK TV, you would relate to many things , such as Jim "the" Bowen (super/smashing/great) being featured in it. Maybe other people would miss some of the jokes, but there is jokes in there everyone would get.
Some jokes are very subtle, and it's one you'd have to re-watch. Which is good, Naked gun, Aeroplane etc are the same in that respect. I think its like comedy I've watched from oversea's such as kids in the hall, red & green show etc. Although some of the jokes are localised, there are things in there to make you laugh.
If you like comedy which is based on real life , you'll like this. The cast is good, except the one who was the youth club dj.. he slated the show later after winning an award.. I don't find him as funny as a stand up comedian anyway, just thought it was a bit snipey TBH
DEN PERRY DID IT!!! =)
I think this is my favourite.
James-1347 May 2003
Phoenix Nights is so funny.
I can't think of a bad thing to say about it. Yes it is very Northern. But that's great.
I'm pleased that a young British comedian has had the guts to produce a show without consciously thinking of "Cross over appeal". Do the Americans think that way. No.
If it doesn't go to America, who cares. We don't live there.
Mainstream British comedies that you see on BBC1 and ITV like Coupling and My Family HAVE cross over appeal, but they suffer. Well in other words, they're CRAP!!! Cliched, contrived rubbish.
My mother loves Phoenix nights and she's not even from England, let alone Bolton. This is a tribute to Peter Kay. His characters are so rich that the local dialect can't hide the great comedy. In actual fact it contributes, whether you understand it or not. There is a lot going on visually too.
The Office was great, Blackadder was great, Fawlty was great, Steptoe was great, but I think this is my favorite!!!
I can't think of a bad thing to say about it. Yes it is very Northern. But that's great.
I'm pleased that a young British comedian has had the guts to produce a show without consciously thinking of "Cross over appeal". Do the Americans think that way. No.
If it doesn't go to America, who cares. We don't live there.
Mainstream British comedies that you see on BBC1 and ITV like Coupling and My Family HAVE cross over appeal, but they suffer. Well in other words, they're CRAP!!! Cliched, contrived rubbish.
My mother loves Phoenix nights and she's not even from England, let alone Bolton. This is a tribute to Peter Kay. His characters are so rich that the local dialect can't hide the great comedy. In actual fact it contributes, whether you understand it or not. There is a lot going on visually too.
The Office was great, Blackadder was great, Fawlty was great, Steptoe was great, but I think this is my favorite!!!
Utter class
bifjenks10 September 2002
This peaks the resurgence of the great British Comedies
It seemed that there would never be another at one point and then suddenly BOOM!! Ab Fab, Alan Partridge, Father Ted, League of Gentlemen, Ali G
In short if theres a more funny take on real life then i want to see it!! It is every working mans club up and down the country, it's the entire Blackpool Prom in two series. Peter Kay has finally been given artistic licence and he takes it. The routines are excellent and you really have to see each show two or three times to take in all the jokes. The lack of canned laughter in the shows gives the audience an intellect rather than a cue and helps the show flourish.
Please! Please! more of this. It is the future of comedy. No it may not travel but who cares enjoy it it probably wouldn't last!
It seemed that there would never be another at one point and then suddenly BOOM!! Ab Fab, Alan Partridge, Father Ted, League of Gentlemen, Ali G
In short if theres a more funny take on real life then i want to see it!! It is every working mans club up and down the country, it's the entire Blackpool Prom in two series. Peter Kay has finally been given artistic licence and he takes it. The routines are excellent and you really have to see each show two or three times to take in all the jokes. The lack of canned laughter in the shows gives the audience an intellect rather than a cue and helps the show flourish.
Please! Please! more of this. It is the future of comedy. No it may not travel but who cares enjoy it it probably wouldn't last!
Superb!
paul2001sw-127 December 2003
Peter Kay's 'Phoenix Nights' is simply the funniest British sitcom for years. The setting is cliched, but its so full of bleak comic invention, every scene bursts with sight and word gags mercifully unflagged by studio laughter. The underlying sense that there is no salvation for any of these characters adds a poignant edge to the hysteria, and Peter's Kay's Brian Potter is brilliantly foiled by Dave Spikey's Jerry, a man almost (but not quite) intelligent enough to realise he'd be better off somewhere else. A real gem, utterly silly but very true to life.
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