Review for Friday Night Dinner Series 2

Friday Night Dinner is on to its second series and showing no signs of falling in quality as it comes to DVD for some more meals with the family.

The premise of the series is simple, every friday Adam and Jonny go to their parents house for dinner and hijinks ensues. Whether this is the fault of parents Jackie or Martin's mothers coming, Adam and Jonny's childish practical jokes on each other or the creepy, but harmless neighbour Jim always looking for any excuse to compliment Jackie on her top, it never seems to be a quiet night.

This series sees Jackie scared off by a mouse, Grandma bringing her new boyfriend who is a rude incompetent driver who accuses Jackie's house of smashing into his car's headlight? Martin drying fish in the cupboard or trying to diet, Jonny getting an older woman, Adam dating someone who smells like his mum and Christmas dinner seeing the appearance of Martin's mum known by the whole family as 'Horrible Grandma'.

There is so much going on and yet so little actually happens with these characters that you can understand why it hasn't lost any of its fresh feeling. The five main characters (including Jim) are just wonderful and though they are typical of the British sitcom, they are relatable and watchable. Watching the banter between the family is nice and even when Adam and Jonny are teasing each other it is never malicious and awkward, but always full of love.

Of the seven episodes, including an odd Christmas episode for the Jewish family, though they do try to explain that, none of them are boring and each one leaves you wanting more. I put this DVD on expecting to watch maybe one or two, but I watched all seven and then went to find the first series to watch. I enjoyed it that much.

Extras are a little thin which is a shame as this seems like the kind of series that would be brimming with outtakes. Instead there is a three minute 'Previously' which is a nice recap of Series 1 and introduction to the family and to Jim. There is also over twenty minutes of Behind the Scenes for each episode which is fine, though there's more of the show shown than actual interviews and behind the scenes footage. There being no commentary is also a shame as this is the kind of series, like with Black Books, League of Gentlemen and so on, that would generally have a great cast/crew commentary. Maybe next series.

Friday Night Dinner is an excellent treat for those who like their comedy. It is funny, simple, but effective and certainly a show that you will want some seconds for.