Television Series Review: Extras
“Extras” is a quirky, funny take on movie extras and life as a wannabe star. The team of Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant (“The Office”) works their magic in this series complete with big name guest stars. With clever writing and great comedic acting combined this is satire at its best.
Ricky Gervais stars as out-of-work actor Andy Millman who can’t quite make it in the movie business and finds himself supplementing his work as an extra in a variety of movies. Gervais is hilarious throughout the two season series and the supporting cast is great, particularly Ashley Jensen as Andy’s best friend Maggie Jacobs, and Stephen Merchant as Andy’s agent Darren Lamb.
Gervais specializes in characters who are uncomfortable in their own skin, are insecure with over sized egos or grumpy types who tend to be irritated by people in general. In Andy Millman’s case he combines each of these three characteristics to his ultimate detriment. It is evident from the bonus features the cast had a blast making this series. Hearing Gervais infectious laugh in the bonus features is almost as good as watching the episodes.
“Extras” is a great bit of fun with big name stars like Ben Stiller, Kate Winslet and Orlando Bloom making fun of themselves and the movie biz. There is english humor throughout the series along with the american guest stars. This is a must see series for staunch movie fans or for people who just like a good laugh.
2005-2007. Directed by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. Starring Ricky Gervais, Ashley Jensen, Stephen Merchant and Shaun Williamson.
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