Ricky Gervais has made quite the living off comedy series that premiere in the United Kingdom and end up getting imported to the United States either in their original form or by way of an adaptation like NBC’s The Office.
Extras and Life’s Too Short made their way to Americans via HBO, and now Gervais’ most recent mockumentary-style comedy series, Derek, is heading to Netflix for a premiere sometime in 2013. Today we have the first trailer for the series – which we voted to be one of the most underrated TV shows of 2012.
Across the pond, Derek has received mixed reviews as the series features a learning-disabled protagonist, which is something guaranteed to rile up some audiences. But Gervais is not shy when it comes to pushing the envelope and has always done his best to portray honest comedy, even if it’s not the most accessible for people who are easily offended.
The series follows Derek Noakes, a tender, innocent man whose love for his job and the people he cares for shines through. He’s 49, adores animals, Rolf Harris, Jesus, Deal or No Deal, Million Pound Drop and Britain’s Got Talent – but his main hobby is autograph hunting. Working in a retirement home with his friend and landlord Dougie (played by Karl Pilkington), Derek cares deeply for the elderly and his best friend, Hannah (Kerry Godliman).
The show doesn’t seem as crass or lighthearted as Extras or Life’s Too Short, and it actually packs a bit of an emotional punch. Of course, the trailer does feature some alternate takes and riffs as has become standard on Blu-Ray/DVD releases of comedy films and series.
This is a big year for Netflix as it will see the premiere of House of Cards in February, Arrested Development in May and now this new treat from Ricky Gervais. We’ll have to wait and see how American audiences respond to Derek when it premieres on Netflix sometime this year.
Source: EW
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Can’t believe it’s been almost a year since this aired on tv.
Trust me guys, watch this episode and await the full season like we in the UK are.
It’s also incredibly accurate if you’ve ever seen or been around people with a certain kind of learning disability or autism.
The whole first episode/pilot has been on youtube for months. Skip the trailer and get right to it.
this looks like straight up drama
It’s not, it’s subtle humour (until Karl’s character speaks, that guy is as outspoken as ever in this).
There was only one unfunny moment for me (I’ll just say “duck pond”) but otherwise, it was both funny and moving.
I normally don’t think Ricky is very funny unless he’s poking at Karl for a reaction but this episode was great.
Dear Ricky,
As all your fans who appreciate intelligent humour.You have once again created a series which looks at apart of life that only some of us view from the outside.It not only looks f***ing hilarious yet, sad and sweet at the same time.Your laugh is contagious.
I love how you express the human condition.
Forever a fanatic.
Dee x
I cannot wait to watch this series! I laughed lots and was truly moved by the one-off episode. Love Ricky and all he does, and this show seems like it could be my favourite yet. Also I dont think Derek has a specific learning difficulty, he’s clearly more intelligent than some comedy creations ( Dougal McGuire, baldrick) and Sheldon from the Big Bang theory could be said to be autistic! Even if Derek does have a disability, he’s still a complex character and an admirable one we can all like. Can’t wait for this.
Ricky Gervais along with Karl Pilkington are two of the funniest ppl on the planet. I have watched The Office, The Ricky Gervais Show, An Idiot Abroad 1-2, Extras, and Lifes too short all of which are pure genius. Also his podcasts are hilarious. Ricky’s witty humor is one of a kind and I am so glad to hear Derek is coming to Netflix.
The first 3 episodes are now on youtube. I think the show is absolutely wonderful. It is sweet and funny and thought-provoking.