Entries in Garth Marenghi's Darkplace (2)
Garth Marenghi's Darkplace
Rob Dean On Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at 12:30PM Double Dip Demands is a column in which I propose films that deserve a re-release on DVD/Blu-Ray with more special features, better transfers and other nerdy bits. Some of the films have no DVDs out there for Region 1 viewers, and some of them have a really crappy version that's bare bones or poorly put together. Who speaks for these films? I do.
The Film: Garth Marenghi's Darkplace (2004 UK TV series)
Cast & Crew: Matthew Holness (Creator/Writer/Actor), Richard Ayoade (Creator/Writer/Actor); Matt Berry, Alice Lowe
Plot Synopsis (via IMDB): This spoof TV series is an unearthed 80's horror TV show, complete with poor production values, awful dialogue and hilarious violence. The series is set in a Hospital in Romford, which is situated over the gates of Hell.
Is it Currently Out? Yes/No. It is available in UK with an extras-packed disc, but is not available for Region 1 players (i.e., Amurrica)
Why Does it Deserve Special Features? Garth Marenghi's Darkplace is a brilliant satire series that mocks 80s cheesy action TV series, pompous pulp writers, bad genre television and the self-importance inherent in revisiting old works. Matthew Holness and Richard Ayoade - who created and wrote the series in addition to appearing as Garth Marenghi/Dr. Rick Dagless and Dean Learner/Thornton Reed, respectively - have a perfect understanding of the multiple genres in their sights and do a good job of adhering to the rules and limitations of them. Then, in addition to mocking the shows and their cheesy budgets/poorly realized scripts, Holness and Ayoade throw in several metatextual elements with the multiple layers of characters playing characters (badly). It's a hilarious and utterly singular show that is occasionally seen on [adult swim] (in fact, I think it'll be on the [adult swim] schedule this July). As the series is over with these 6 episodes, and since all involved have proven their abilities in creating this many layered universe - and their success in other ventures like The IT Crowd, The Mighty Boosh, Submarine, etc. - it would be worthwhile to get these brilliant comedians back together for one more go at this cult show.
What Should Be on the Disc?
Zelda Convention - June 27, 2011
Rob Dean On Monday, June 27, 2011 at 5:00PM 
Really, porn tube streaming site? It's not bad enough that my love life solely consists of watching a video labeled "Naughty Maid," but you have to add the insult of calling me ugly when I hit pause? Ouch...my pride.