The IT Crowd

The show I am examining is a British sitcom titled “The IT Crowd”. This is a show that highlights the stereotypes that are found in large corporations in a comedic way. The main characters consist of two geeky guys Roy and Moss in IT (information technology) and their new relationship manager Jen who knows zero about computers. The show is HILARIOUS! It did not surprise me that it was hard to find reviews for this show. Unfortunately, the show was short lived (only 4 seasons with 6 episodes, each roughly 20 min. long)

First review from The New York Times:

The author starts by claiming that the show is a rip off from another British comedy “The Office”. Then continues by saying the show contains zero originality. She gives a few short descriptions of the characters and the shenanigans they are involved in. Then author’s final thoughts, “Nor does it produce the kind of creative slapstick a critic might be inclined to recap for the purposes of a review.” – a kind of bad review. The only reason I did not like her review is because I feel opposite of how she feels, however, it is written well.

In contrast, a better review from the Los Angeles Times:

First the author claims, that this show is the funniest show forth coming. He then gives a brief description of the setting which is a skyscraper building full of "a lot of sexy people not doing much work and having affairs,". Then the author follows by giving us some background on the creator and his other works. He compares the show to CBS's "The Big Bang Theory" but is says IT is much more wild and aloof. After, he gives transitory descriptions of the main characters, providing quotes to help identify them. For example Roy: “Seen sometimes in a T-shirt bearing the legend RTFM (for "read the [expletive deleted] manual]"), he has a certain contempt for people who ask for his help.” He then goes on saying how the characters get along well because they are all outcasts and how he “laughed a lot”. I liked this review and he chose great quotes that resided appropriately with the characters.

Jen's portrayal of Aunt Irma visiting ^ :)

Another review in favor of IT from LAweekly:

This author describes the show to be “deliriously funny” and goes on to say how this reflects the “oddball mind” of the writer Graham Linehan. Who is recognizable for highlighting upon “socially awkward people”. He also then gives brief descriptions of the characters with the infamous example that is reoccurring in the show throughout all 4 seasons - “Have you tried turning it off and turning it on again?” Then he describes the show’s theme is an ironic portrayal of the corporate world. In comparison, he mentions how the show is similar with its filming techniques like “The Office” or “Curb Your Enthusiasm”. The author ends by saying “On The IT Crowd, nobody’s cool, but you’ll love everyone.” I also like this review too, he uses a language that I find very suitable for describing the show.