Actor/comedian Steve Coogan’s last introduced British television to Alan Partridge, an egotistic talk show host who rarely said or did the right thing. The character starred in two series that combined the absurd situations of Curb Your Enthusiasm and backstage show biz comedy of The Larry Sanders Show. Partridge constantly put his foot in one uncomfortable situation after another with squirm-inducing, hilarious results. It was brilliant comedy.
Coogan’s most recent TV series, Saxondale concerns Tommy Saxondale, an aging former roadie who’s worked for countless rock bands throughout the 1970s. Although now settled into suburbia and employed as a pest exterminator, Saxondale can’t quite let go of the rock ‘n’ roll rebel image he still has of himself. He’s divorced, goes to an anger management group (though these sessions seem to be the only thing that really sets him off) and has an adoring artist girlfriend, Magz. Tommy works with his young, slightly naive assistant Raymond, and receptionist Linda, the passive-aggressive office gossip.
If you’re expecting the broad laughs of Alan Partridge, you may be disappointed with Saxondale at first. But pay close attention and you’ll be rewarded with something more subtle and complex. The relationship between Tommy and Magz turns the concept of the standard sitcom couple upside down. It throws out the tired cliché of the middle-aged guy ending up with a young supermodel who endures all his shenanigans. Magz, played by Ruth Jones, is a sexy, somewhat full-figured woman who obviously loves Tommy, though doesn’t hesitate to get on with her own life when he gets too irritating. Tommy is a bit full of himself and often comes off as a know-it-all, but is basically a regular guy doing the best he can. He just hasn’t grown up yet and can’t let go of the past. Their relationship is a realistic one (if a little kinky). The inspired idiocy of the Partridge character is toned down to a “you’ve been through this too, haven’t you?” everyman wink that makes Saxondale a richly textured comedy that ultimately may be even more satisfying than Coogan’s previous television efforts.
P.S. Knowledge of ‘70s rock bands will enhance your enjoyment, but isn’t mandatory.
JANUARY 2010
Letter to the Vatican 