I suppose like many people I was initially put off investigating this because what good could come from watching a prog about a bloke doing impressions. I mean come on. Then I was warned by the Times not to be mislead. Oh go on, I'll record the first one just in case, and boy, am I glad I did.
The Mimic is a gentle, beaut of a show. @Terry Minot is a very skilled impersonator. He is however, an even better actor. His portrayal of the hapless loner Martin is warm, measured and IMHO one of the best light comedy performances this year will see. A strong supporting cast and strong production values make this the most underrated prog in ages.
Did I say great mimic? Well, the standards are almost right on the nose although there are some I need signposts for. But does that matter? Nah, the mimicry of the title is a misnomer (and the show has probably got lower viewing figures as a result, which is such a bloody shame).
I had a nightmare that Ricky Gervaise was directing this but, thank goodness, it's not, so, nightmares cease. (I really enjoyed the Life's Too Short special though mate). Perhaps my subconcious planted the Gervais seed because, like Extras, there is a 'will they, won't they' subplot. These are nice people. Dysfunctional to be sure. But hands up those that aint (not you ex-wife, not you).
I do worry that if this series gets recommissioned - and I so hope it does - the writer may be tempted to jump into the cold plunge pool of pathos (already worrying signs of that which I hope don't develop . . . to be fair at the moment they are being handled with a deft, sure touch) or the desire to introduce some 'bastards'. Resist and desist I cry.
Please check out The Mimic. If you like it recommend it to your friends. Gentle it is, mawkish it aint.
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