Quite surprised to see noone seems to have started a thread about this recent documentary, hosted by Ben Elton, on the alternative movement in the 80s. Anyone see it and have any thoughts?
Ben Elton: Laughing At The 80s
I've not had time to watch it yet, but rather enjoyed Jennifer Saunders' look at the 90s. Catherine Tate's examination of the past decade however, just reminded me of how dreadful things have been and how vacuous society and popular culture has become.
Looking forward to checking this out, and rather hoping they might do the 70s, perhaps for Easter.
It included Ben Elton in a face-to-face meeting with Jimmy Tarbuck. Elton recalled a time when he and Tarby got in a lift together, at TV studios, and didn't say a word for six floors. Tarby denied having used a line attributed to him, 'Ben Elton-he's as funny as tax!' but laughed, when Elton quoted it to him, saying he wished he had used it, as it was a good line.
I should like to see this - one of my favourite eras for comedy, and the time when most of my favourites got their start on television.
This was one of the most back slapping, showbiz insider, mutual wanking sessions I've ever seen.
'Oh you were brilliant and so funny'
'No Ben, you were more brillianter and more funnier'
Really enjoyed this. I don't think it told me anything I didn't already know but plenty of good clips and it was great to see Rik Mayall.
Is Ben Elton a comic, then? Sorry, it slipped past me... 
He's quite successful.
He's successful and clever - but is he funny.
The Spice Girls are.
I remember watching one of his BBC1 shows in the mid-90s. Ronnie Corbett used to guest star doing his in the chair anecdotes. I quite enjoyed Ben on that show. But then again I was about 10 years old and would have enjoyed anything post-watershed. I think you're right, he's not that'a funny person. Good writer though.
Quote: happychef @ January 3 2012, 12:05 AM GMTIt was great to see Rik Mayall.
It's always great to see Rik. The man's a legend.
I loved Lee and Herring's piss take of the 80s comedy: http://youtu.be/5m5A5rxFjs8
Was this one ment to be Alan Cumming Forbes Mason. Or someone eles? http://youtu.be/Rwet6xL5n7Y
Glad to see he doesn't hold any grudges against Alexei Sayle.
Like completely cutting him out of comedy history.
God, he had Ben's number back in the mid-80s when everyone else loved his fake socialism.
Now he's trying to say he was never a socailist he was just anti-Thatcher.
Good luck with all your future endeavors Ben, I'm sure you'll make a fortune.