This programme is "comfortable". Depending on how cynical I'm feeling, that can be good or bad. Bleak Expectations is a comfy cardigan, that I can slob around the house in, which is still funny though I've heard the jokes five times. The Archers is a ratty old armchair which you really should throw out, but the dog likes it. Good and bad.
TCSW (acronyms are cool now) is the good sort. It's not breaking any major boundaries, being a relatively modest family troubles sitcom, with a bit of Swedish set dressing. Luckily, that dressing is unusual enough to keep my interest. I enjoy the neat little insights to Swedish folklore and lifestyle (though do find myself wondering just how much of it is convenient stereotype for comedy purposes).
The characters are well-drawn, and I still really enjoy Sten as the grumpy father-in-law. Danny Robins is also entertaining as always. There is a bit of a feeling of the programme sometimes being too pleased with itself, but I think that mainly comes from Adam Riches. He tends to sound a bit like a documentary presenter, weirdly distant from what is ostensibly his family life. He doesn't feel as involved as you would think he should be.
Still, I've got to series 3, so I'm not likely to stop now. One for the fans of Wallander who don't like the gory bits.
Recommended.
Tagged: Radio Comedy Cast Sitcom Family/Relationships