Shameless - Series 1-3 - Complete (Box Set) (DVD)

Author's product rating:   

Did you enjoy it?	Loved it
Story	Outstanding
Characters / Performances	Outstanding
Special Effects	Standard
How does it compare to similar films?	Not applicable

Advantages:	Great characters, hilarious plot - lines and fantastic acting
Disadvantages:	Show's impact lessens as series progresses

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

As the title says, this is a great buy on two levels: perfect for die-hard Shameless fans such as myself, as it offers fantastic value for money (I bought mine for £33 off Amazon, which works out at 11 quid a series - bargain!). It is also perfect for those unfamiliar with this great show, and perhaps would like to get into it now that it has entered its acclaimed fourth season.

The plot centres on the insanely dysfunctional Gallagher family. Abandoned by their mother and left in the doubtful "care" of their alcoholic, layabout father Frank, the six Gallagher kids face a series of highs and lows as they live on Chatsworth estate in Manchester. The show mainly focuses on each characters relationships, both with their family and their lovers.

One of the interesting things about this show is how crime is perceived as the norm in the characters lives. From benefit fraud to selling drugs, it is a part and parcel of their lives on the estate. While it is often the instigator that leads to a sequence of hilarious events in most of the plot lines, the emphasis is not on the fact that the criminal activity is "wrong". The authorities, such as Social Service and the police (apart from the two local coppers) are portrayed as the interfering forces which are trying to split the family up, and many episodes revolve around the kids trying to evade/outwit them.

For me, the greatest thing about this show is the strong characters, and the bonds between each of them. Each charactor is brilliant, even though you may find it hard to like or identify with them (for example, Frank, the self-proclaimed "working-class hero" who consistently sponges off other people) The family's dynamic is great, they all really look out for each other.

My only dissapointment with the show is how, in my opinion at least, the show kind of goes downhill as the series progress. Series 1 will always be my favourite, 2 and 3 (though very good)dont come close to matching it in terms of emotional resonance and vibrancy. The frustration that the kids (especially Fiona, the eldest) feels at being constantly let down by their parents, who should be caring for them, is tangible. Its quite painful to see how fast they have to grow up and shoulder responsibilities that aren't even theirs. This frustration at their parents is less evident in the later series', though perhaps this is due to the characters' growth and the fact that they have come to terms with it.

There are a couple of extras on the dvds: some outtakes (highly amusing) and commentary (doesnt interest me so i havent listened to it sorry)

All in all, a brilliant program, it is well worth investing in this boxset. If you are looking for a show that deftly weaves tragic reality with hilarious comedy than this is definitely for you!

(I apologise if I've inadvertently given any of the plot lines away, I tried to be as careful as possible!)