There’s something about British comedies, they’re charming, sarcastic, witty and more often than not, politically incorrect and completely on the money and hilarious. The only downside is that they’re always too short, and the seasons leave you wanting more. Catastrophe definitely falls into this category.
Catastrophe is about a one night stand in London that turns into a six night stand between Sharon and Rob. Rob returns to the US and they get on with their lives. Only one month later, Sharon calls to inform him that she’s pregnant. They weren’t very good when it came to contraception, oops. And that is your set up. Sounds familiar? It’s nothing new, but the execution is quite refreshing and makes the concept feel almost as though they came up with it.
Sharon and Rob are two very funny people who are not trying to be funny, and that’s the brilliant part. British humour has evolved over the years, it is much less Mr Bean and a lot more Blackadder, season 4. Where it is about witty conversation and less about forced physical comedy and one liners. The Brits are also less concerned about sex and colourful language than we are, and get away with a lot more when it comes to that. What we’re used to as being risqué is nothing out of the ordinary for them, which, in a time of political correctness, is refreshing.
Sharon, is frustrated over Fran’s luck in life, and says to Rob in frustration, “I wish one bad thing would happen to her, like I don’t want her to be hit by a bus or anything… but maybe get caught for tax fraud or child pornography”
In one sex scene, Sharon moans out “Oh god, hurry up, I’m not going to do cum.” Women everywhere will resonate with this one and laugh out at how incredibly true a statement it is and wish that we had the guts to moan it out ourselves. We know we’ve thought it enough.
Catastrophe’s lead actors Sharon Horgan and Rob Delaney are mostly unknown as actors, but they are hilarious comedians. They are also the writers, creators and Executive Producers. And good on them for backing themselves all the way. They have created a masterpiece of romantic comedy, and one which is feels rather realistic. As though, it’s something that could very well happen to any of us unsuspecting 30 somethings plus, dealt in a mature and clumsy manner. In truth, just because you’re older and suppose to be wiser, doesn’t actually mean that you are.
And a bonus, Carrie Fisher plays Rob’s foul mouthed mother.
Rating: 7/10, it is entertaining and funny, and the setup is great, without being overly drawn out.
See it again: Yes, Rob and Sharon are charming individuals and I would like to see how their relationship transitions.
Worth my time: Yes
Take my mother: No, this is a show I will watch with my partner.
Talking points: Sharon’s one liners and Rob’s very straight laced nice guy persona.
Annoyance factor: 1/10, it’s always so dark, but then again, that’s London. I’ve lived there, it’s mostly grey.
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