I'm an American living abroad in China. I found this show and I love it. I love the Mocumentary style. The Voice over ads that perfect touch of seriousness to a wacky way out show. The production level is very good and the two "main" actors are very talented. I may not get all the jokes since it is geared towards the UK audience but this is OK. The Stereotypes are crude and offensive at times, but this is all played out to be just over the top and not taken serious. The two male leads play so many parts. Both male and female. At times it is so funny to see a hulking man play a women. It pays homage to Monty Python. I often wonder how they gained access to the airport they are in. I look forward to the rest of the season.
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goodnyou10017 January 2011
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Red-Barracuda4 April 2015Written and performed by Matt Lucas and David Walliams, creators of 'Little Britain', Come Fly with Me is a fly on the wall mockumentary set in an airport that spoofs the many British reality TV shows that have followed this format. It features a wide array of characters such as owner of low-cost airline FlyLo Omar Baba, work-shy coffee kiosk worker Precious Little, highly camp passenger liaison officer Moses Beacon, racist immigration officer Ian Foot, quirky ground crew worker Taaj Manzoor, catty air steward Fearghal O'Farrell, serial holiday-makers Peter and Judith and the extremely thick burger joint worker Tommy Reid who has ambitions of becoming a pilot.
Firstly, this is a well written and very well performed comedy. There have been criticisms of it but to be honest I thought it was very funny on the whole. Lucas and Walliams are very amusing and talented comic performers and they are on very good form here. I can't compare it too much with 'Little Britain' seeing as I have only seen bits and pieces from that on-going series. But suffice to say, I think the idea of setting the comedy around a specific place works very well and means that there has to be a bit more discipline in the writing in order for the characters to all fit within the specific confines of the airport setting. Sure, it could be accused of being repetitive to a certain extent with some characters being slightly more one note than others. But on the whole Lucas and Walliams extract a lot of varied comedy from their characters and I have to admit I laughed quite a bit at this one.
As far as the accusations of racism I have often seen, I simply can't agree with this. It's actually quite lazy to label the show racist on the basis of these white actors applying dark make-up to their skin in order to play ethnic characters. To say this is not acceptable is illogical and lazy thinking, seeing as Lucas and Walliams play an assortment of characters from various regions around the UK. To say that they can play characters with different accents and hair colours but not different skin pigmentation is simply absurd. The fact that they do play these characters is in fact the opposite of racist – it's inclusive and treats types of Britons in the same manner irrespective of skin colour. Aside from this, you need look no further that the character of the immigration officer Ian Foot to understand what the creators really think of such narrow-minded thinking.
This is for sure a funny show that is probably a little under-appreciated. -
Elain-ee7 April 2012People compare Little Britain and Come Fly with Me unfavourably. They say the humour is different, or that the latter is not as funny as the former. Having watched the two series' back-to-back in a matter of weeks I have to say I disagree. The humour is essentially the same. The difference is a matter of targets.
Little Britain famously made fun of the disadvantaged and peripheral elements of the UK population: the people that everybody prefers not to see. At the same time it celebrated the English eccentricity in a weird way. We saw the disabled, the flaming queers, the transsexuals, the illegal immigrants, the chavs & council estate skivers as players in the national drama, even if only satirically. That was a first for British telly. The catch, and what made their style of satire acceptable, was that many of these people were not actually what they seemed: Ting Tong was actually a man from Tooting, Andy was actually able bodied, Dafydd was actually a repressed queer-hater, etc., etc.
The characters satirized on LB were freakish, fringe characters who were almost guaranteed not to be part of BBC's viewership. They were people that you would be more likely to see terrorizing the streets and the newsagents, stuffing themselves with cakes over a bodice-ripper or (as I imagine in Lou's case) watching obscure documentaries and re-reading newspapers from the previous decade. It was satire with a large element of "I'm glad that ain't me" humour. Those two styles of comedy are usually incompatible but in LB they found a balance; half the audience seemed to be laughing at the Walliams & Lucas duo while the other half was laughing with them. But the humour in Come fly seems to have sent those two camps scuttling back to their respective sides of the humour divide.
Come Fly With me targets more familiar faces and it's failing seems to be that it is set in an average setting, peopled by average characters. It satirizes people who have the time and money to use airports regularly - people with respectable dayjobs, authority and status; people with a shot at a managerial role. Basically, it targets the half of the audience that laughed AT the freak parade that was Little Britain. They are much more stable, affluent and secure characters than inhabited Little Britain - the kind of people who like to think of themselves as 'average' men and women, and that they should be able to hide behind their averageness.
I suspect that Little Britain fans who dislike Come Fly with me makes me are the same ones who never really understood LB's more satirical elements. They might have laughed at Little Britains' freakshow because, "I'm so glad that's not me" but they never recognized that the joke was also on them, at least in part. Walliams and Lucas took mainstream preconceptions to extremes and subverted them in unexpected ways. Basically, I think that Come Fly with Me hits hits too close to home and has dented the vanity of a certain BBC-watching demographic. That's why less people can take it and it's also exactly why it makes me laugh. I really hope there will be a second season of this! -
Holy Cow! Ten stars aren't enough for 'Come Fly With Me'. This Yank discovered it on streaming--and it's truly one of the best comedies I've ever seen. Lucas and Walliams are highly talented, versatile performers, and the material here is as funny as "Little Britain", only less raunchy. It's amazing how many characters the boys portray in the show, and I was nearly at the last episode before I realized a few of them--like Precious Little and Omar Baba--weren't played by other actors. The narration of the episodes, done in a very straight-laced manner, is a perfect contrast to the comic action. I bought the DVD, have watched it several times, and it always makes me LOL.....very few programs can do that. The one regret is that there are only 6 episodes of this gem. Matt, David, how about a 'Come Fly' encore, guys? Please?
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emmavalieva5 June 2019Loved the show, I wish they would make more! It's really enjoyable!
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Another great jab at the world from the great satire nation of Britain. "Come Fly With Me" welcomes you into the busy world of British aviation and all the things that happen in the airport.
With Matt Lucas and David Walliams portraying just about every role in the series, then you are in for somewhat of a treat, because these two are really great together on the screen, but they also manage to portray a lot of quirky characters well and in a way that you actually sort of bond with each unique character and enjoy every segment individually.
The characters, as mentioned above, are quirky, but they are also very vibrant, colorful, three-dimensional and unique. And that is a really important trait to the series, and both Matt Lucas and David Walliams rose up to the occasion and delivered one impressive performance after another.
Sure, this might not just be in the liking for everyone, as British humor can be somewhat of an acquired taste. However, if you enjoyed "Benny Hill", "Black Books", "Father Ted", "Black Adder" or "Little Britain" (obviously), then you will also enjoy "Come Fly With Me". It is a great comedy spoof of the reality TV show the initially invited viewers into the aviation industry.
The most disappointing thing is that the series were limited to only 6 episodes, spanning over about 173 minutes. The series could most definitely had more episodes as the characters just had so much to offer.
Prepare to fly high with FlyLo. -
supermalta24 January 2020It's sad they made only one season of this show. Ian the immigration officer is hilarious lol
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Annoid22 April 2014I've read many reviews on either side of the fence and quite thrilled that there are comedies that choose a side.
I don't see the show as racist just as the American Show "All in the Family" was not, although there were racist people who did think the "Archie Bunker" character made sense.
Yes, we all realize that there are people who think like the characters on Come Fly with Me and people like Archie Bunker, but I for one am laughing "at them" not with them. Too over the top to be taken seriously, but with elements in them to make you laugh at how ridiculous they are.
I am not from the U.K. and I had no problem laughing out loud.
Loved the documentary style, thought it "brilliant". It's not for everyone but worth a shot to see if it's your "cup of tea". Personally I do use the word brilliant sometimes in life and at time to time I do have cups of tea. I'm Canadian and hoping that myself using these phrases to describe a British comedy isn't seen as making horrible stereotypes or being racist. -
jboothmillard30 January 2011We wondered whether the stars of Little Britain could come back with something just as good, not necessarily a sketch show, but that was a good option, and they did it. Matt Lucas and David Walliams bring us this mock documentary series set in a fictional airport with various characters working and hanging about in it, basically, taking the mick of programmes like Airport. Characters included foreign FlyLo owner Omar Baba, lazy coffee kiosk manager Precious possibly my favourite character), passenger liaison officer Moses Beacon, chief immigration officer Ian Foot, ground crew member Taaj Manzoor, camp Irish steward Fearghal O'Farrell, holiday makers Peter and Judith, and there were many more besides, all making us laugh with mildly racist material, disgusting stuff, and well written dialogue. Narrated by Lindsay Duncan, with guest appearances by Geri Halliwell, David Schwimmer, Rupert Grint, Barbara Windsor, Anna Friel and many more. I was expecting appearances from characters like Vicky Pollard and Daffyd Thomas, but it doesn't matter, Walliams and Lucas have created a pretty funny follow up from their big successful show, and I certainly wouldn't have missed this. Very good!
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tobyhobson28 December 2017Many people have said this is not as good as Little Britain but personally I thought it was so much better. Little Britain is too crude for my taste but Come fly with me is perfect observational humour. It's especially funny if you have ever seen the "Airport" documentary about Heathrow
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GiraffeDoor13 August 2019I found Little Britain a show I loved to hate but this was watchable.
Despite several formulaic sketches and a LOT of racial insensitivity in its make up, this was goofily satisfying. Probably shouldn't have had a second season anyway.
I like how the various characters from different sketches actually meet each other. Though it is admittedly somewhat self indulgent to see these two in every role.
Almost worth watching just for the best ring tone ever: Martin Clunes....Martin Clunes... -
blueheart-113 January 2011Ashamed to say this but this show is probably only really funny if you've seen the 'fly on the wall' shows that they parody. The characters are pitch perfect send-ups of the hapless 'stars' of the airport based programs.
Less cruel than Little Britain, like many character based comedies, such as The Fast Show, this just gets funnier and funnier. David Walliams and Matt Lucas are top notch comedy actors, in some ways much too good for such light entertainment as this. Thank goodness they've dropped the catch phrases!
The format probably won't last for more than a series but enjoy it will its here. -
Prismark104 December 2013Come Fly with Me is a fly in the wall mockumentary created and starring Matt Lucas and David Walliams. It is narrated by Lindsay Duncan in a straightforward manner.
It is a parody of the the 'fly on the wall' airline shows that have been common in UK television for the last 15 years on all the television channels.
The characters that Walliams and Lucas portray are very good send-ups of the airport and airline figures that appear in these types of shows as well as some passengers.
The series is less cruel and over the top than Little Britain. The best characters for me was Omar Baba the owner of Fly Lo, the low cost airline. He is obviously modelled on Stelios, founder of EasyJet.
Other memorable characters were Taaj Manzoor the mouthy ground crew worker, Ian Foot the racist Immigration officer and Precious the coffee shop worker who always had to close the kiosk because of unforeseen circumstances.
The series was a big hit on the BBC. The problem as the series went on was that many of the characters were just one note with always the same punchline. -
jacko079 February 2011Not near as good as Little Britain series one, but possibly as funny as the later series. Some of the characters are good but others are awful and not at all funny. Walliams and Lucas are becoming tiresome and although this show is on prime time it doesn't really deserve to be there.
I would imagine one sketch in Come Fly was as expensive to make as two whole episodes of Little Britain first series which was easily the best thing they have done so far, well except for Walliams channel swim which was great but not many laughs.
Throwing money at something doesn't make it funny or better, they have gone to town on make up, costume and so many characters but it lacks originality. Many of the Easyjet employees in the real doc were just as funny while acting themselves. I like Walliams and Lucas but I don't like this show much, they have done much better things in the past.
Harry and Paul is a far better show, so the boys must try harder if they want the big audiences. On the doc of the making of the show, Matt said he didn't care if it got bad reviews, so I guess that's OK then. -
sidneyc71427 September 2018There are great shows available on Netflix, and I must say this is probably the funniest! The only problem is there are only six episodes. David Walliams and Matt Lucas are brilliant playing pretty much all major roles. The hilarity of the acting and straightforwardness of the narrator make for a great cometic shoe. You must watch this show!
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secondsight-223 January 2011This is an excellent comedy show by Matt Lucas and David Walliams. It blends the serious nature of some lesser known UK shows that catalogue the every day events of an airport with their usual unique flair of comedy. In Come fly with Me, new wacky eccentric characters are created to amuse, offend and be loved. The material the comedic pair use tends to always edge on the risqué. Some may not know their special brand of comedy and find the show offensive, all I have to say to those offended by Come Fly with Me, is to go and watch Little Britain or the American counterpart Little Britain USA, the show the comedians are best known for. So I'm definitely going to have to show my support for yet another brilliant British production of comedy and hope that people around the world can see it for what it really is, which is a bit of fun.
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Good-Will8 January 2011I liked Little Britain, which was funny and inventive (particularly Tom Baker's voice-overs), but this series is simply a disaster.
Most of the jokes are based on stereotypes, but there seems to have been no effort to make them actually funny.
A gay male cabin crew member? How side splittingly funny! A low cost airline that charges for every extra? Amazing observational humour! I watched three episodes hoping that it would get better. That maybe new characters who were amusing might be introduced, or the existing ones developed, but no.
This is catastrophically unfunny, and no redemption appears to be in sight.
Cheers, Will -
sufyaanrashid9518 November 2023"Come Fly with Me" is a mockumentary series that takes viewers on a comedic journey through the fictionalized world of an airport and its diverse cast of characters. The plot revolves around the hilarious interactions and misadventures of the airport staff, passengers, and airline crew.
The series aims to provide light-hearted entertainment and does not shy away from employing humor that may be considered controversial. It utilizes satire and caricature to exaggerate stereotypes for comedic effect. However, it is important to note that the humor in "Come Fly with Me" walks a fine line and has faced criticism for perpetuating racial stereotypes.
While the series was initially well-received upon its release, it is worth acknowledging that societal attitudes have evolved since then. In today's context, the show's portrayal of some characters and their ethnic backgrounds can be perceived as racially insensitive or offensive. It is unlikely that such humor would be accepted or tolerated in the current cultural climate.
It is essential for viewers to approach "Come Fly with Me" with a discerning eye and a critical mindset. While the series may provide moments of laughter, it is crucial to be aware of the potential implications of the humor employed. It serves as a reminder that comedy is subjective and can be a delicate territory when it comes to sensitive subjects like race.
In summary, "Come Fly with Me" is a light-hearted mockumentary series that explores the humorous side of airport life. However, viewers should be mindful of the show's content, as it does venture into territory that is now considered racially contentious. It is a reminder that societal standards and sensitivities have evolved, and what may have been accepted in the past may not be tolerated today. -
gogg-0507526 September 2021Great show and much more modern than Little Britain. The jokes and take on the idiosyncrasies of an airport are just great.
Pity it never got a second season and it is no longer available on most streaming services. But the DVDs asap and enjoy this timeless classic. -
jaxgrchick22 September 2018In my boredom I was browsing for a different show when I stumbled on to this gem! This show had me laughing literally every minute. I can't believe it didn't have a longer run! Definitely recommend it !!
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funkycat-4754611 January 2017Considering that this was made long after Little Britain's success, Come fly with me certainly pulls its weight. An airport setting is a nice refresh from a lot of mainstream comedies. Only 6 episodes where ever made, and that's a real shame because I feel they could have done a lot more with the show. On the upside, it genuinely gives the impression of a real documentary-you could show someone the intro and they would think it is actually about a real airline.
Some people would find it a bit offensive, but personally I didn't find it at all distasteful. The only complaint I have about this show is that I felt the husband and wife pilots "Jackie and Simon" were a bit over used. But it is very minor. It is a good show and is certainly worth your time if you liked Little Britain. -
Little Britain was very successful. The problem was what they were going to do next. Expectations were very high. Little Britain USA was sort of okay, but nothing new.
Eventually they had to do something else. Come Fly With Me is it. It's got a surprisingly high score on here for something that died. The BBC threw money at their new comedy geniuses and waited for them to come up with the goods. They rented entire airports and shot at film studios, unheard of for a UK comedy show. They had their pick of writers, actors and comedians. They could have had anyone they wanted.
What we got was a series of grotesque characters in the mould of a reality TV series from ten years before. Many of the characters were racist themselves or were portrayed in a racially insensitive way not seen on British TV since the 1970s. That's not to say that these things are so taboo that one cannot make good comedy out of them, but Lucas and Walliams didn't. The characters were flat, lazy clichés. A low cost airline that screws people for every possible add-on? A black woman who is devoutly Christian shouting "Praise the Lord!"? A drunk airline pilot? Are we sure it's not the 1970s?
It didn't get a second series. If it had been even half-decent the BBC would have at least have limped out a second series. But no, pretty quickly the announced that it was over. And Walliams and Lucas haven't done anything together since. Walliams has sensibly got out of comedy and moved into children's books, whilst Lucas has sort of stayed in comedy but hasn't really done anything.
I saw some people in other reviews suggest that Come Fly With Me is not comedy for mainstream audiences - "not a show for normal people". That's overselling it. For some Americans, this show can be seen as quirky or niche simply because it's British. The truth is, this is mainstream British comedy... from the 1970s... with pots of money thrown at casually-racist prosthetics and unnecessary locations. -
joelmosborne23 November 2020If you don't find this show funny you should probably have not personality
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callumclark9730 January 2011Well what can I say, A true example of British Comedy.
I have decided to wait until the end of the series to give a true reading of how good or bad the series was (maybe the British Press should have gave it the same slack).
What I enjoyed about the series is Lucas and Waliams's no-fear approach to portraying stereotypes, something I believe comedians have been put off doing due to the rise of political correctness in the UK. You have Precious, an African Christian who always finds an excuse to not come into work, Ian Foot, A patriotic immigration who sees every foreigner as a threat and Judith and Peter Surname, a retired couple who always have "A holiday from HELL!". Then there's a spoof of the airline industry itself. Flylo, a low-cost airline owned by Greek etrepuneur Oma baba (a spoof of easyjet and Stelios). Irish airline and Flylo rival, Our lady Air (spoof of Ryanair)and flag carrier Great British Air.
I think the series is one of those unique shows, like Little Britain, that makes you go "That is just me/us." It is a side-splitting show that makes fantastic television and great entertainment. It is strong enough to be an adults show yet mild enough for 10 years+. A truly outstanding show. Well done BBC.
On Jan 28th, Come fly with me was re-commissioned for a second series. The DVD of the first series is out in March 2011. -
"Come Fly With Me" is not a show for normal people...it's not. And, if you are normal then I strongly urge you NOT to watch it--it will make you weird or it will strongly offend you. This is pretty much what I would tell people about "Little Britain" as well--both shows starring David Walliams and Matt Lucas.
Following their success with the various "Little Britain" shows, I suppose Lucas and Walliams were bored by repeating the same sorts of characters again and again and again (and again). So, they decided to make "Come Fly With Me" and come up with a whole new set of characters they can do again and again and again (and again). Okay...the show IS repetitious. But it's also extremely funny--well written, wonderfully acted and a lot of fun.
Before you go out and watch the show, however, be aware that the comedy team's humor is often crude and adult--though "Come Fly With Me" is less graphic and adult than "Little Britain". However, "Come Fly With Me" IS a film that will offend the politically correct--particularly in the USA, as having white guys in black-face, the racist border control agent or impersonating Asians or Muslims is considered wrong and you NEVER are supposed to laugh at this sort of thing...that is, if anyone else is nearby.