The Leisure Virus
Note: This review is from 2000
Though often too dark to be considered genuinely funny, there are nevertheless some fine comic moments in this edgy sketch show.
Very much in the vein of disturbing comedy exemplified by Chris Morris' Jam, The Leisure Virus trade as much in discomfort as they do in laughter.
Yet when they do target the funnybone, the team create as original and as amusing material as anyone.
The writer's dismembered commentary is inspired and a couple of characters are distinctly hilarious notably the manic SS interrogator and the henpecked husband.
But if you're looking for uncomplicated laughs, you should go elsewhere.
Here you'll find bleak sketches touching on topics like cancer and suicide. It's comedy with a heart of darkness.
Review date: 1 Jan 2000
Reviewed by: Steve Bennett