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Game On

I was lucky enough to catch the very first episode of game on, when it was first aired on BBC 2 during the mid to late 90's (not sure of the exact date), and at a time when there were not many good new comedies about, this was a breath of fresh air. 

Firstly, I can understand why there are many who dislike this comedy so much. For one, the language is a little on the crude side, although there is not much in the show that is not heard day in and day out at work, or in the local pub. although I admit that "shut up you ginger tosser" is probably not heard all that often. 

What I immediately liked about the show, was the fact that it was centered mainly inside the flat of the 3 characters, Matthew Malone, Martin Henson and Mandy Wilkins. 
Any comedy, which is set mainly in the space of a small flat or house, is a brave thing to try.. And although this has been tried many times before (Men behaving badly, Porridge (in prison), etc), I think that game on is as good as anything else that has been written along these lines. 

The programme does a very good job of introducing the 3 characters. Giving the impression that you actually know them. (i.e. when Martin Henson constantly gets dumped on, you may feel sorry for him, but you also expect it to happen). 

The 3 characters also have completely different personalities, which is always a good recipe for a good comedy in my opinion. The conflicting opinions and love/hate relationship between the three, really does pave the way for some classic arguments and situations which are not that different from the ones you have personally with friends you have known since school. 

As I have said, I would imagine that many people dislike this programme due to the bad language at times. But for me, this only adds to the humour. Despite the way the 3 constantly rip into each other, I have never felt that the show goes too far. Unlike many comedies that use bad language just for the sake of it. 

I can hear many people saying that this comedy does exactly the same. Although 2 of the characters (Matt and Mandy) are portrayed in this way, so when they do swear, you almost expect it of them. 

Game On certainly will not be everybody's cup of tea, but if you don't mind a little racy language, then this is one of the most under-rated and best comedies of recent years. 

Game On is not only funny, but it also keeps you interested in the characters (i.e. You want to keep watching to see what happens to the characters). 
All 3 characters have had their lives during the 3 series' portrayed very well. And all 3 have enjoyed success and failure to great extremes. 

The programme is also not afraid to tackle subjects that may be seen as controversial in some people's eyes. (Homo-sexuality, agoraphobia, Death, etc). But the writers and actors have done a very good job of keeping these subjects light hearted, without making fun of the situation. 

The bickering and constant attempts to get one over on each other, is something that most people can relate to with best friends during their life, and I think that Game On really portrays this situation very well. 

Game On is very funny, especially if you don't mind a little bad language. But away from the comedy, the storylines are very good also, and I for one have always found the show interesting to watch. 

Game On's 3 main actors are extremely good young actors in their own right, and the people who cast this comedy I believe have got it spot on. 
The BBC should really have scheduled this programme as one of their biggest comedies in recent years, as to be honest there have not been many better during the late 90's. 

Copyright - Kevin Porter 2003