Derek Episode 4 Review

Ricky Gervais' comedy-drama continues with its fourth full instalment, and we've got the definitive verdict.
I for one have really enjoyed the time we've spent with Derek on Channel 4 these past few weeks, yet 'Episode 4' was personally a big disappointment in this reviewer's honest opinion. Whereas the series usually blends comedy and emotive drama with a passionate zest, here much of the humorous elements felt forced at best, as character portrayals began to veer a little too close to the stereotypical melodrama of The Office and Extras.

At the heart of this issue were Karl Pilkington and David Earl as Dougie and Kev respectively. While Pilkington has so far been employed to great rare effect at the most realistic and hilarious instances as the voice of reason, in 'Episode 4' his An Idiot Abroad-riffing take on the character at the beach was just grating to watch, lacking any real empathetic or chuckle-worthy material. Indeed, Earl's Kev was played for laughs once again in much too frequent a manner, again wearing thin after just a few scenes and thus making the episode as a whole suffer due to his increased exposure.

It's a good job, then, that Ricky Gervais and Kerry Godliman held the fort magnificently back at Broad Hill in the episode's opening scenes and the climax. Godliman has always been an unsung wonder of Derek, representing perhaps the most true-to-life portrayal of a woman who finds solace in this selfless work yet is criticized for it by self-adoring and richer member of societies. It's a meaningful and empathetic trait in her character that's put to great use here, and when she's placed in collaboration with the hugely pleasant surprise return of Holli Dempsey as Vicki, the episode is at its glorious best. Indeed, if Dempsey appears in both of the two remaining instalments of this first season to lighten things up with her callous nature, then I reckon Derek can leave a fitting legacy with its viewers regardless of whether another season is commissioned or not.

Gervais in particular must be commended, though, as his script, direction and portrayal in the show have all been marvelous. Sure, the cracks can begin to become visible when the comic places too much emphasis on the more light-hearted and gag-prone characters in his ensemble cast, yet that doesn't rob Derek of an inert likability which keeps the programme afloat with ease every week. Derek 'Episode 4' is probably the weakest entry in the show's roster so far, but its strengths do at least ensure that it's a compelling watch thanks to a few standout performances. That final line from Hannah ("She always was a little c**t.") was worth the entire half an hour alone!
3/5