Film

8 out of 10 cats DVD

Paul Cook 18/12/2006

Rating: 4/5

Just in time for Christmas, the latest series of 8 out of 10 cats is available to buy on DVD. With more statistical, satirical hilarity than you can shake a stick at. Cut together unconventionally this new 'cats' DVD features 3 shows, each compiled by different parts of the entire series. It works well as you won't find yourself revisiting whole weeks' worth of news stories, instead watching a seamless blend of the unique, fact-filled channel 4 hit series.

The series' success owes as much to its charismatic and blunt presenter Jimmy Carr, as it does to the team captains Sean Lock and Dave Spikey. They have a unique ability to say what we're all thinking, not that we would admit thinking it of course! For example, when someone defends Michelle McManus' weight problem shouting “She's lost 6 stone!” Jimmy Carr replies “Wow - That's like throwing a deckchair off the Titanic!” It's moments like these that explain the show's huge success.

The guests are strategically chosen to increase the jokes per minute ratio, to the highest number possible. Jade Goody regularly provides the show with a balance to the smart-arse answers, and the overseas guests highlight the show's wacky, eccentricity. The look on Christian Slater's face whenever Johnny Vegas has something to say is priceless.

The extras on the DVD are minimal but do include outtakes and clips left on the cutting-room floor. They have to be seen to be believed, Christian Slater and Johnny Vegas having wheelie chair races in the studio is worth the RRP alone! This is the perfect Christmas present for the un-PC uncle or dad or a worthy DVD to earmark for those vouchers we get every year.