A New Heart-Warming Comedy: The Mimic.

I like to keep up-to-date with all the latest comedy shows, and so was intrigued by the announcement of The Mimic, described as "a heart warming comedy" by Channel 4.

Now, it wasn't 'laugh out loud' funny, but it was entertaining and it certainly was "heart warming".The show pivots on likeable central character Martin (who you may recognise as 'Terry Wag-wan' from Very Important People), a deeply unsatisfied man tries to better himself after discovering he could be a father. We like him because he's a bit odd; he doesn't seem to mind showcasing his remarkable talent for impressions in the middle of the street, risking a few funny looks from passers-by. These impressions are genuinely brilliant, and entertaining, which is a success for the show in itself.
Another entertaining aspect of the show is the dynamic between Martin and Jean (another recognisable face, Shaun's mum from This Is England).Throughout the episode, you feel yourself rooting for Martin more and more; firstly, by progressing in his career, then, through his relationship with his possible son Steven.
Steven, I found, isn't as likeable. It's blindingly obvious he looks down on Martin, and is hoping that there is no blood connection between the two. His judgement creates a paradox for the audience: On the one hand, we want Martin to improve his life because then Steven will accept him and they'll be able to have a 'happy-ever-after' relationship; but on the other hand, why should Martin have to sacrifice his individuality to satisfy this teenager?
All very thought-provoking for a Channel 4 comedy show.
The truth is, Martin needs to make changes to satisfy himself, and the rest will follow. Although The Mimic wasn't the funniest thing I've seen all year, I didn't want to switch it off halfway through. I will definitely be tuning in next week to see how the writers develop the plot after the 'big reveal' at the end of the first episode (which you can probably guess to be the revelation that Steven is in fact Martin's son). Throughout, I will be rooting for the relationship to blossom; we need more happy endings on TV these days.

If you missed The Mimic last night, you can catch it on 4od here.