It seems strange why Peter Kay, Dave Spikey and Neil Fitzmaurice had to rewrite their previous vehicle "That Peter Kay Thing" when the elements of Phoenix Nights already lay within that underrated little gem; perhaps an issue over writing credits. The result is perhaps one of Channel 4's all-time great comedy's that surely rank alongside Father Ted and Spaced. From beginning to end Phoenix Night's combines side-splitting and subtle humour that will leave you laughing long after the dvds sell-by date, and a highly emotive storyline that will draw you in right up to the Goodnight Vienna credit.Phoenix Night's is an ageing working-man's club operated by the cantankerous Brian Potter (Kay) and his compère (Spikey), who both seek to organise wackier events to draw in the locals. Despite their hard-fought efforts you can rely upon their crack-brained schemes to end in chaotic hilarity; such as organising a gun-slinging contest between Lancashire and Yorkshire, or booking a highly inappropriate pyhsic.Another strength of the series is the use of Kay's comedic friends and the local residents of Bolton, transforming what could have been a run-of-mill situation comedy into an entirely believable working- class environment that could have been plucked from any working- town in England. As such the characterisation and interaction between the actors and the locals will leave you identifying with the characters and coming to love or hate them as much you would with any local club in your community..Kay stated he is so proud of what they accomplished with Phoenix Nights, and it is impossible to disagree: Phoenix Nights is flawless.

I'd love to give this series about 100/10! The humour in this series is so original, I suppose it helps that I live in Bolton and completely relate to the comedy! I was surprised to hear that when the DVDs were released they sold more in the south of England than they did in the North, but I wonder why southerners "mock" us northerners but they love the comedy produced. I have to say my favourite episode was the pilot episode, with the opening of the club, and "send the buggers back!". I seriously hope Peter Kay and his fellow writers have enough material to produce a third series, it would be brilliant! My favourite character is Ray Vonn, including the Tracy Burns story lines! I also think the auditions at the end of the episodes are hilarious - bring more of it please!!!!!!

Some British Comedies don't translate into US sensibilities and are not as funny outside of the UK. Phoenix Nights is NOT one of those. This series is a well-crafted set of stories taking place in a small working-class night club that will keep you laughing long after you press the STOP button. Phoenix Nights works on many levels but it starts with a tight script, delivered with verve by a widely talented cast, flawlessly directed and photographed, every character in the series that contributes a vital beingness to this story of a worn-formica nightclub in Northern England. The sets, staging and costumes are as rich in comedic detail as are the intertwining plots. And the vacuum-tight editing of the series make this one of those shows you'll watch again and again. And if watching Phoenix Nights for laughs isn't enough reason for you to purchase these DVDs, then purchase them to use as a textbook example of how a creative ensemble can work together to produce a first-rate comedy series and put together an informative and entertaining commentary track. Phoenix Nights is the best reason for Americans to purchase a multi-region/multi-standard DVD player. Phoenix Nights may be the most entertaining TV series America never gets to see. If you're NOT in the UK or Europe, here's what you gotta do: - bite the bullet and buy the DVD's from AMAZON.CO.UK and watch it on your computer (The DVD's are Region 2; non-US), or - spend a few bucks and get an all-region DVD player and then watch it via your stereo-connected wide-screen TV, or - sit around and hope and pray that UK's Channel 4 exports the show to a US network.

You wait your whole life for a bus and then two come along at once....2001 saw a great return to form for british sitcom. With barely enough time for us to stop chuckling to ourselves at the subtle brilliance of The Office, on stepped Phoenix Nights - the creation of excellent comedian Peter Kay.Phoenix Nights follows the trials and tribulations of the locals of "The Phoenix Club", Bolton, England - from inflatible phallic bouncy castles, to youth club productions of Karate Kid, to psychics who can't stop insulting people.Whilst often side-splittingly funny.... much like its more famous cousin The Office, Phoenix Nights' true genius is found in subtle movements and actions which paraphrase brilliantly life in the north of England. Peter Kay demonstrates in his live shows (another must) his knack of picking up on peoples innate phrases and hand movements which he reproduces in this very often (if you look closely enough). I know its an old cliché, but it really is funny because its true.Highly recommended.