3. Almost Royal was a seven episode mockumentary series which aired
on BBC America in 2014. It followed two comedians tour America,
claiming to be British Aristocrats, whose position in line to the
throne changes in each episode but is always above 50th.
The show has been renewed for a second series of eight episodes
despite receiving generally unfavourable reviews from critics.
4. There is always the same two minute
introduction and title sequence, with their
backstory being narrated as you see their dying
Father request them to visit his beloved
America.
The running joke is them carrying a vase with
their Fathers’ ashes with them at all times
They continuously flaunt jewellery and watches
to show off their ‘royalty’. Expensive designer
dresses and tailor made suits are also the most
commonly worn costumes.
A key part of the series is the American history
and culture. For example they re-enact a Civil
War battle, ride a rodeo and go to a shooting
range.
Each episode lasts for about 23 minutes and
features the two comedians visiting different
states such as Boston, New York and Texas.
5. There is only one camera and most the
acting and dialogue is improvised as the
Americans are unsuspecting of their
acting. The lighting is always natural as
most the scenes are filmed outdoors
whilst any indoor scenes are during the
day with sunlight or room lights.
Most the shots are close ups, medium or
over the shoulder shots. This is due to
the fact that both the comedy and
purpose stems from the interaction
between at least three people (i.e. the
presenters and at least one other person)
7. An Idiot Abroad has been a television phenomenon and is
currently into its third series, with a spin off show, Karl
Pilkington The moaning of life about to start a second series.
The show features Karl Pilkington travel the world and
exploring different cultures but with his very negative
persona causing him to say unforgettably controversial
quotes.
The success of the series has led to it being nominated and
winning many television awards as well as critical success
from critics and viewers.
Karl Pilkington himself has been lauded the ‘TV phenomenon
of the 21st century’.
8. Each episode is 60 minutes long with the first series consisting of 8
episodes.
The start of every episode consists of Karl being brought into Ricky and
Stephens office to be told where he is going next. After some funny
travel advice and a hilarious disapproving response from Karl, he heads
Because Pilkington has no interest in global travel, Merchant and Gervais
make him travel the world whilst they monitor his progress with skype
and phone calls.
Karl visits each of the seven Wonders of the world and tries out new
foods, rituals, sports and dances.
Throughout each episode, Ricky and Stephen will phone or leave Karl a
voicemail telling him to meet up with a local or tor guide who will
welcome them into their home and show him their culture. Eventually
towards the end of the episode, Karl will get to the wonder and
obviously, will be far from impressed.
9. PRODUCTION DISTRIBUTION
Me & You Productions (season 3-) British Sky Broadcasting (BSkyB)
RiSK Productions (season 2-) Science Channel (2011-)
Sky Travel Channel (2015)
11. People just do nothing originally started as a YouTube series
in 2010, although it struggled for views, the popularity
eventually grew and the BBC commissioned a pilot episode in
2012. A four part series launched in mid 2014 and was
followed by a 5 episode series a year later.
