It’s Background Artist!

August 11, 2005

We’re halfway through the BBC run of the new Gervais/Merchant production “Extras” now, and while it’s not quite to the level of “The Office,” it’s still a good ole time. Instead of the cluelessly obnoxious David Brent, Gervais goes for a more sympathetic character in Andy Millman, an extra struggling to get that coveted speaking role.

Andy is joined by fellow extra Maggie Jacobs (Ashley Jensen) and constant scene stealing by Steven Merchant as The Worst Agent Ever. They also work in a celebrity appearance each episode, including Ben Stiller for the premiere and Kate Winslet in the third episode. From the first three episodes, it seems oddly dependent on the stunt casting. The second episode features British star Ross Kemp, and while it was still funny I wasn’t quite sure what image Kemp was sending up. On the other hand, you Stiller and Winslet both get to ham it up as famous folks trying to get serious for award recognition. Making fun of the Holocaust is always funny!

I’m not sure if HBO really needs another comedy sending up the film industry, but it’ll fit along nicely next to Entourage and the Comeback. “Extras” premieres on HBO in September.

Posted in Idiot Box