"Things You Should Have Done" has always been a comedy with a hint of sadness, but in its second series, it takes a drastic turn. Gone is the quirky charm that made it stand out, and instead, we're left with a show that's almost unrecognizable.
The premise remains the same: Chi, a dry-witted "stay-at-home daughter" from middle England, navigates life without her parents after their untimely deaths. But this time around, things are different. The lovable Karen is gone, and in her place, we meet Ruth, a therapist with a questionable bedside manner.
The new dynamic between Chi and Ruth adds an extra layer of tension to the show. While Chi's antics are still as offbeat as ever, the introduction of a professional with a penchant for overstepping boundaries raises some eyebrows. The line between therapy and chaos is blurred, making it difficult to separate what's real from what's just part of the show.
One of the standout aspects of "Things You Should Have Done" has always been its quirky cast of characters, but in series two, they're still somewhat one-dimensional. Bridget Christie shines as Ruth, but even she can't elevate the show when faced with such weak writing. The return of Sarah Kendall and Juliet Cowan brings some much-needed levity to the proceedings, particularly in their scenes together.
Despite its flaws, "Things You Should Have Done" remains a show that's not afraid to be silly or outrageous. A recent episode features Chi dooking herself in the face as part of a heated argument with her aunt's replacement – and it's still laugh-out-loud funny.
It's clear that the writers are trying to reinvent the show, making it more of a traditional comedy rather than its offbeat predecessor. The result is a program that's both bewildering and fascinating. While it may not be for everyone, fans of the show will find plenty to enjoy here.
Ultimately, "Things You Should Have Done" is still a show about a young woman navigating life without her parents, but this time around, it feels like two different shows fighting for attention. With flashes of brilliance and some truly unforgettable moments, it's worth sticking with this strange, wonderful ride.
The premise remains the same: Chi, a dry-witted "stay-at-home daughter" from middle England, navigates life without her parents after their untimely deaths. But this time around, things are different. The lovable Karen is gone, and in her place, we meet Ruth, a therapist with a questionable bedside manner.
The new dynamic between Chi and Ruth adds an extra layer of tension to the show. While Chi's antics are still as offbeat as ever, the introduction of a professional with a penchant for overstepping boundaries raises some eyebrows. The line between therapy and chaos is blurred, making it difficult to separate what's real from what's just part of the show.
One of the standout aspects of "Things You Should Have Done" has always been its quirky cast of characters, but in series two, they're still somewhat one-dimensional. Bridget Christie shines as Ruth, but even she can't elevate the show when faced with such weak writing. The return of Sarah Kendall and Juliet Cowan brings some much-needed levity to the proceedings, particularly in their scenes together.
Despite its flaws, "Things You Should Have Done" remains a show that's not afraid to be silly or outrageous. A recent episode features Chi dooking herself in the face as part of a heated argument with her aunt's replacement – and it's still laugh-out-loud funny.
It's clear that the writers are trying to reinvent the show, making it more of a traditional comedy rather than its offbeat predecessor. The result is a program that's both bewildering and fascinating. While it may not be for everyone, fans of the show will find plenty to enjoy here.
Ultimately, "Things You Should Have Done" is still a show about a young woman navigating life without her parents, but this time around, it feels like two different shows fighting for attention. With flashes of brilliance and some truly unforgettable moments, it's worth sticking with this strange, wonderful ride.