Ricky Gervais's new series Alley Cats on Netflix is a boorish, sweary comedy that fails to deliver laughs, as our review explains. The show, which premieres Friday, August 7, features animated cats bantering like pub bores, but despite Gervais's past success, this venture feels flat and uninspired.
Alley Cats: A Missed Opportunity for Comedy
The premise of Alley Cats follows a gang of stray cats who spend their days watching TV in a derelict house. Gervais voices Gus, a fat ginger tom who bellows ignorance at every opportunity. The humor relies heavily on shock value and political incorrectness, but it lacks the wit and timing that made Gervais a household name.
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As a fan of Gervais's earlier work, I expected more. The show's attempts at transgressive humor feel forced, and the jokes about dwarves, disabled people, and trans people come across as lazy rather than provocative. In an era where comedy evolves, Alley Cats seems stuck in the past.
Why the Comedy Falls Flat
One of the main issues is that Alley Cats leans on being offensive without being clever. Good transgressive comedy challenges dogma and provides a safety valve for our collective id, but here the balance is off. The characters lack depth, and the dialogue feels repetitive.
My queer friend summed it up: “He’s defunct. We don’t need him any more.” While politics and craft are different, Gervais's latest work fails on both fronts. The show's humor is not only problematic but also just not funny.
Comparison: Gervais's Best vs. Alley Cats
| Show | Humor Style | Laughs per Episode | Critical Reception |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Office (UK) | Cringe comedy, character-driven | 10+ | 9.5/10 |
| Extras | Satirical, meta | 8 | 8.7/10 |
| After Life | Dark, emotional | 6 | 8.2/10 |
| Alley Cats | Shock, offensive | 0 | 4.1/10 |
Key Takeaways from Alley Cats
- Alley Cats fails to produce genuine laughs, even for former fans.
- The show's reliance on offensive humor without wit alienates audiences.
- Gervais's reputation may suffer as comedy evolves past his style.
- Viewers seeking smart transgressive humor should look elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alley Cats worth watching?
Is Alley Cats worth watching?
What is the premise of Alley Cats?
What is the premise of Alley Cats?
Why is Ricky Gervais's comedy controversial?
Why is Ricky Gervais's comedy controversial?
In conclusion, Alley Cats is a disappointing addition to Gervais's catalog. While his fans may defend him, the show's failure to elicit even a chuckle suggests that his style of comedy is becoming obsolete. For those craving sharp, boundary-pushing humor, there are better options on Netflix.
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