Ensofter
Overrated and overhyped
mraculeated
The biggest problem with this movie is it’s a little better than you think it might be, which somehow makes it worse. As in, it takes itself a bit too seriously, which makes most of the movie feel kind of dull.
Roman Sampson
One of the most extraordinary films you will see this year. Take that as you want.
Dana
An old-fashioned movie made with new-fashioned finesse.
studioAT
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.
thecoft01
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.
Stephen Bailey
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!"
zweihander
You wait your whole life for a bus and then two come along at once....2001 saw a great return to form for british sitcom. With barely enough time for us to stop chuckling to ourselves at the subtle brilliance of The Office, on stepped Phoenix Nights - the creation of excellent comedian Peter Kay.Phoenix Nights follows the trials and tribulations of the locals of "The Phoenix Club", Bolton, England - from inflatible phallic bouncy castles, to youth club productions of Karate Kid, to psychics who can't stop insulting people.Whilst often side-splittingly funny.... much like its more famous cousin The Office, Phoenix Nights' true genius is found in subtle movements and actions which paraphrase brilliantly life in the north of England. Peter Kay demonstrates in his live shows (another must) his knack of picking up on peoples innate phrases and hand movements which he reproduces in this very often (if you look closely enough). I know its an old cliché, but it really is funny because its true.Highly recommended.