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Vexed, BBC Two

Vexed, BBC Two

Does BBC Two's new cop comedy make an arrest?

by Monday, 16 August 2010
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Waking the deadpan: Toby Stephens and Lucy Punch in 'Vexed'

Lucy Punch – what a great name for a comedian (or a female boxer). Unfortunately that is the only thing that’s great about Vexed, a new comedy drama written by Howard Overman, creator of Channel 4’s perky ASBO (RIP) superpower fantasy Misfits. His new show is that relative rarity, a comedy cop show, a genre of which Punch has some experience, having had a supporting role in Hot Fuzz, although it’s not in Vexed’s interests to start making such comparisons.

Lucy Punch – what a great name for a comedian (or a female boxer). Unfortunately that is the only thing that’s great about Vexed, a new comedy drama written by Howard Overman, creator of Channel 4’s perky ASBO (RIP) superpower fantasy Misfits. His new show is that relative rarity, a comedy cop show, a genre of which Punch has some experience, having had a supporting role in Hot Fuzz, although it’s not in Vexed’s interests to start making such comparisons.

Deadpan requires the straightest of straight faces, and neither Lucy Punch nor Toby Stephens is anywhere near the Leslie Nielsen class

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Comments

Submitted by Sophie (not verified) on Sun, 29/08/2010 - 19:16
I've been really enjoying 'Vexed'. I find it funny, intelligently written and full of a certain sweetness. We will have to differ. :]

Submitted by Jeff Wode (not verified) on Tue, 07/09/2010 - 22:08
You've been a little too critical on the series, while the acting isn't up there with the best, its well written, quite sharp, surreal and the two lead characters have a good rapport - lots of interesting sub-plots and quirks too.

Submitted by Jack (not verified) on Wed, 08/09/2010 - 17:38
Cannot possibly agree. Toby Stephens is marvellous as the sleazy, macho, laid-back detective. His over-acting only makes the character funnier in my eyes. And so what about predictably? Practically every happily-ever-after story is, so why isn't this allowed? Personally I find it to be one of the very best things I've seen on TV this year, right up there with Sherlock and Luther.

Submitted by Franco (not verified) on Thu, 09/09/2010 - 16:24
Watched all three on iPlayer one after another, and I wouldn't have done that had I not thought it was worth it. I really enjoyed the non-relationship banter between the two main characters . I'd really like to see this return. Well done on casting Ruth Punch, she's excelent in this role and Toby Stephens plays 'Jack" brilliantly. Lets have another three episodes....please!

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