Heavy Pencil

Thank God for all the brilliant comedy podcasts from the U.K. ... “Heavy Pencil” is very reminiscent of Ricky Gervais’ “Extras” (except Michael isn’t an extra trying to get work anywhere. Michael is a once-celebrated comedic actor from the 1970’s... trying to get work anywhere). But the similarities to Gervais’ stuff is as far as that goes / the writing, acting, and production for Heavy Pencil stands quite firmly on its own feet. It’s hilarious- and the show’s premise (Actor tries to talk to his agent on the phone/ has to settle with assistant’s assistant/ acting job he’s forced to take is a devastating blow to his ego so he’s calling for any help he can get - some small way in which he can hold on to a THREAD of his pride. We soon feel sorry for Michael - empathize with many of the devastating predicaments he finds himself stuck in... as the relationship between aged actor in the twilight of his career (and life) and rookie acting agency assistant (who’s given telephone duty) - the least talented in the office assigned to deal with the least talented under company contract. And listening to their telephone interactions is truly marvelous - original, hysterical, and addictive. Each time a new episode drops i get a a mini burst of happiness adrenaline...

First episode reminded me of my dad wrote a porno. It’s funny stuff! Can’t wait for the others. “Jimmy the elderly gimp” LOLOLOL