Murder Most Horrid (1991–1999) User Reviews (4)

twisted, entertaining and clever

[myriamlenys · 8/10 · 6 September 2018]

A very amusing collection, this one. The various tales are a mix of dark comedy and thriller, with occasional forays into horror or science fiction. Most of the episodes are so cleverly written that the plot twists and ending are completely unexpected. Dawn French is in great, protean shape, delivering one fine performance after another. Some of her more sinister and grotesque creations seem to belong in the oeuvre of a modern-day Dickens.

"Murder Most Horrid" is also pleasantly layered and sophisticated, poking fun at other genres and art forms. One of the best episodes contains a ferocious spoof on television programmes for children. Many of these children's programmes invite the public to send in suggestions about possible topics and challenges : a visit to a mining shaft, perhaps, or a boat trip on a new canal. Here you've got a middle-aged presenter feeling threatened by her new assistant, whose youth and good nature are turning him into a popular favorite. A deeply unpleasant woman, she delights in inventing ever more dangerous and outlandish challenges for him - on behalf of the kiddies, of course. She's in for a good dose of poetic justice, though not in the way you think... Another episode deals with a theatrical company. The viewer gets both a play-within-a-play and a black-hearted dissection of life on the stage, complete with feuds, love affairs and swollen egos. The air kisses alone are a joy to behold.

"Murder" also pokes fun at itself AND at its British viewing public, for instance by introducing a female character obsessed with making false confessions. When this unbalanced woman is not annoying the police somewhere, she sits wide-eyed in front of the television, watching various crime and thriller shows. Her closest companions are domestic cats, with names like "Morse" or "Inspector Frost"...

I get the impression that the quality began to sag during the later seasons, but overall this is a remarkable series. Do watch it. It will make you laugh, wince and shudder, often at the same time.

hilarious!

[jnebocat-17048 · 8/10 · 23 October 2021]

Just discovered this gem doing online search for British comedies. Loved her in Vicar of Dibley(sp?). I swear she is Tracey Ullman's clone--similar style of humour.

Murder can be a funny business!!!

[nathid · 21 May 2001]

Each episode of this hilarious comedy series is written by a different writer and tells a completely different story. The only common factor between each episode is the terrific Dawn French.

Each episode tells the story of the events surrounding a different murder. Each week, Dawn French portrays a different character who is caught up in all the action, sometimes her character is the murderer, and sometimes she plays the victim.

With guest stars, such as Amanda Donohoe, Dexter Fletcher, and Sarah Lancashire, and writers such as Ian Hislop, this show is a real gem.

Murder Most Delicious!

[Enrique-Sanchez-56 · 17 May 2003]

DAWN FRENCH is just delightful in these wonderfully campy send-ups. The direction, writing and art direction as simply edible.

These are the kinds of comedy programs that would never survive in America. It's a shame...America always thinks it has the last word on everything, doesn't it? Not on comedy or actors - that's for sure. This program is a tribute to the slew of wonderful programs which the UK and the BBC crank out with such style.

I was pleasantly surprised to see that TONY DOW was a director of these programs. I am glad he has continued to work and develop his talent.

I can't wait to see these episodes on DVD.