Only Child

Just finished binge watching the first series and having read poor reviews felt compelled to add my own. Thought it was understated, utterly charming and funny. The two main characters had good rapport, mainly due to the actors' portrayal and you could certainly identify with them. The humour was risky in parts which really made me laugh, but this was cleverly combined with an unassuming sensitivity. Despite their conflict and exasperation with one another, a genuine affection eventually broke through. It was extremely well written, a little reminiscent of After Life and I certainly hope that there will be a second series.

I really wanted to like this with two actors having such good pedigree. Gregor Fisher and Greg McHugh (Rab C Nesbitt and Gary Tank Commander) but their past triumphs probably gave me high expectations that this would be funny.

Whenever I see a description now that says gentle or warm hearted comedy I expect to be disappointed and this lives up (or down) to my expectations.

I've watched two episodes and that's enough. If those have not raised a smile I don't think any masochistic additional viewing will help.

Pity.

It's alright going for pathos but don't call it a comedy if it doesn't raise a laugh.

Right out of the gate I could identify with what was going on in my own life and the intergenerational difficulties, and the humour with which it's delivered make it palatable in a fresh comedic way.

Definitely 9/10 IF you can identify with the subject matter. Not everyone may be able to and find it boring or if you aren't able to empathize with the characters you'd have a hard time being connected with the story. In that way there could be some alienation with the story.

For myself and my wife it was laughing and tears from beginning to end. I'd give anything to have more series just like this one.

This will hit home hardest with those who have/are experiencing the central theme that this show revolves around.

Hopefully it will get a 2nd series so that the storylines laid out can be explored.

The acting is very good. There is a lot of scope for the world created in these 6 episodes.

Cons: Some of the comedy one-liners are predictable. The writing could be sharpened.

There's not much more to say. I'm just filling up the character count now. I have to go for a sigmoidoscopy tomorrow morning. I've spent most of this evening on the lav after gulping down a jug of laxative. I'm not having sedition for the procedure tomorrow as I have to drive. Pfft. I dunno. I'm not looking at the screen. I have no interest in what's up there; because I know what comes out.

Only Child is a heartwarming and often hilarious comedy series that follows Richard, a man who returns home to visit his father, Ken, a year after the passing of his mother, Jean. What starts as a simple visit quickly turns into a realization that his father may need more help than he initially thought.

The show delicately balances humor and poignancy, exploring themes of family, aging, and the complexities of parent-child relationships. The chemistry between Richard and Ken, played by Greg McHugh and Gregor Fisher, is a highlight, their interactions filled with both affectionate bickering and genuine love.

While some may find the pacing a bit slow at times, the overall charm and relatable situations make Only Child a delightful and engaging watch. It's a show that resonates with anyone who has experienced the joys and challenges of family life.

I loved it. Bring on season 2.