The delusions of Count Arthur Strong
Steve Delaney has played Arthur Strong since the 1980s and like Steve Coogan is rapidly approaching the actual age of the character he is well known for.Arthur Strong is a retired comedian and actor who has grand delusions, clumsiness and is easily confused.
He comes into contact with Michael who is researching a book about his late father who was an entertainer and comic partner to Arthur Strong. Whilst encountering Arthur, Michael also comes into contact with his circle of misfit friends.
This TV adaptation is based on the radio series and after a dicey first episode it seems to have settled down. The character of Arthur Strong has been softened for the television although he can still grate and irritate.
Some of the plots are inspired by the radio series and some of the slapstick looks to be tailor made for the TV version.
The Michael character as played by Rory Kinnear is our entry to this strange world of Arthur Strong, although by the final episode of the first series we realise we know little about Michael.
It seems that he actually lives in York and we do not know whether he is even married or not.
What works is the buffoonery between Michael and Arthur and this was demonstrated in the second episode with the Jack the Ripper tour
It is not perfect and it has been labelled as Marmite as some viewers have just found it unfunny.
However there is enough there to entertain and make you laugh.
score 7/10
Prismark10 2 September 2013
Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw2862369/14460
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