I understand the criticisms but the show has only gotten better. If you are a fan of gervais and merchant's other works, definitely check it out.
Stuart (merchant) can definitely be dislikable but i think overall he is a man who is just blinded by the medias portrayal of the Hollywood dating life. Episode 2 in particular, he comes off as an unsympathetic character but it picks right back up in episode 3 playing a desperate awkward loser. I hope the show picks up its steam like it did this week, because if it does, this show is a winner.
Not to mention the side characters are amazing like Jessica and Rory.
The show contains merchant's dry humor as well as the office- us (also creators of the show) silliness. Try it out and keep up with it as it is only improving.
