As a big fan of Russell Brand, I have to say that I was somewhat disappointed with the "Doing Life" show. I have long enjoyed Russell's work on TV, I enjoy his podcasts, and also thought his first stand-up DVD "Russell Brand Live" was a work of art.
"Doing Life" is in much the same vein, so much so that he recycles material from the first show. He also recycles jokes used on his television show "Ponderland", which to me is rather lazy and disappointing from one of the UK's best.
Allow me to state clearly, the show is not bad. Not at all. Brand's unique charm and his audience interaction are as good as ever. His confessional style to comedy is back, as he once again shares some embarassing and hilarious stories from his own life with the crowd. Most of the material is new and Russell on several occasions is able to demonstrate his great improvisation skills as unexpected things occur duing the show.
However, this is an honest review from a big fan of Russell, and I felt somewhat let down by this show. It is definately a step down from his first DVD and I really hope it is not a sign of things to come.
Extras on the DVD are fairly good. Included is a very funny interview from the show Friday Night with Jonathan Ross, as well as some new sketches and behind-the-scenes footage.
Despite my criticisms, I do recommend this DVD. However, if you haven't bought his first DVD "Russell Brand Live", buy it first. It gives a far better account of one of this generation's breakthough comic artists.
More details
Soundtrack
Average
How does it compare to others by the same director?
Satisfactory
Value for Money
Satisfactory
What format are you reviewing?
DVD
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