MovieChat Forums > Derek (2013) Discussion > I couldn't believe..

I couldn't believe..

posted 9 years ago by Thom4747
9 replies | jump to latest

The criticism of this show. I thought it was absolutely brilliant and moving. It wasn't that funny or anything, but every episode really moved me and made me think how brilliant show it is. I just felt so much sympathy for Derek and the way he affected people around him.. it was just amazing. Also how they wanted to show the world that the elderly have stories and memories was very moving. Only thing that I didn't like that much was Kev and his role as 'comedic relief'. Honestly, I don't think the show needed him.

But the criticism. I just don't understand, people are bashing it for not being funny, people bashing Ricky Gervais for trying to mock disabled or handicapped people when the show had nothing to do with that.. Was it marketed to Big Bang theory audience or how the hell was it so negatively received?

I hope Ricky will never start listening to critics and will keep doing shows like this.

[–] MuteBanana 9 years ago

I suspect people bash it because its a horrible show that makes no sense, is full of unpleasant characters and is written by someone who enjoys making fun of disabled people. Nothing Gervais writes about kindness in this series feels genuine. He's trying so hard to make people like him and its transparent. I can't get my head around how so many people are falling for it.

He doesn't even try to make Derek a nice person. He behaves so badly and yet all he has to do at the end of each episode is say 'Be nice to people' and viewers are falling over themselves to praise Gervais for being such a genius and declaring Derek to be an inspirational figure. I worry how bad these people must be if someone like Derek is an inspiration to them. I beg people to please be nothing like Derek.

[–] TheDemon (458) 4 years ago

Real life is full of unpleasant characters.
Derek sends a message out about how the elderly in Western countries are (mis)treated, using subtle humour to bring home that message. Contrary to your synopsis, it makes perfect sense. The main characters are all dysfunctional, but their primary concern is for the people they look after.
If you want fluff, go watch Family Ties.

[–] wearsalan (5554) 4 years ago

Must admit that I thought Gervais was an absolute dickhead......but I do love this series. You've hit the nail on the head with your synopsis

[–] HORSEtheMan 9 years ago

Clearly most people didn't actually watch past the first episode. One of the best shows I've seen in quite some time

[–] lubin-freddy 9 years ago

Agree with the OP.

"What can be asserted without evidence can be dismissed without evidence."

[–] billybizar 9 years ago

Common, Kev was the star of this show! If it wasn't for him it would be less humorous for sure.

[–] ackleholic 9 years ago

It's like magic. This show is simply encouraging kindness in everyone watching.
That can only be a good thing can't it?

[–] seanfox778 8 years ago

I like the show but I would think it would've enjoyed it a lot more if Gervais didn't play Derek. That's nothing against Ricky Gervais, I've watched The Office so many times I just think of him as David Brent. Everytime I see Derek on screen I just think it's David Brent mocking an autistic chap.

[–] JoaquinValley 8 years ago

Love the show! Found myself crying almost every episode because they were so moving. A sweet show and wish it had lasted longer.