Shameless

I have recently started watching this programme and I find it raw, funny and anarchic but there's something that I can't quite put my finger on that makes it slightly uncomfortable to watch. I know it's not the language or sexual content.I think it's Frank Gallacher and his attitude to his family. I know it's funny but it doesn't sit right with me. I don't get the opportunity to watch much British tele and so don't know how popular the show is. Maybe someone can enlighten me. By the way I will still be watching it given the opportunity because I like the writing and the way it is directed and acted out.

 

I like Shameless. I've been watching it now for four years. I had Virgin On Demand when I first tried it, and they were playing all the original series of it. So I watched through all of them, and have been hooked ever since.

My friend was asking me last night why I watch it, as she finds it vulgar. But I think the reason I like it is I've always been of the mindset that everyone has a story. Their story might be uncomfortable to read/watch; but I'm sure there are people that do relate to the storylines in ways I thankfully never will. Just as if I were to sit down and read an Irvine Welsh book, it causes me to think and share with the emotion, and learn about a different side to life that I've never experienced myself.

I'm not sure what series you are watching, if it's the current one or not. But yes, Frank does tend to see his kids and family as an inconvienence. People he can sponge off of, and not really have to give any input to their upbringing. However, if you keep watching the programme, he does have redeeming qualities and moments at times. He has these moments of clarity where he actually gives good advice, and you can see how much he actually loves his kids, despite treating them so dismissively.

As far as popularity, it must be popular to some degree, as they keep making them. However, I've only ever met a small handful of people that will admit to watching it and enjoying it. Most of my family and friends won't watch it as they think it's too vulgar and depicts only the lowest common denominator of British society. I on the other hand, like that about it. I don't see it as glorifying the lifestyles of the people in the programme, or it laying out plans of how to live your life. It's just entertainment, and it is about those that do anything they can to get by in life and help their families and friends.

I watched the first look last night on E4, and I was in tears by the end. I think this series, has been one of the best series of the programme so far.

 

It's sort of popular, more low cult. I loved the first three seasons but the rest is self parody.

When they lost half of the main original cast, the show went downhill a bit.

 

I think it's probably the older series that I'm seeing. Thanks for the input guys!

 

I think it lost its way after the third series and have not watched it since.

 

I never saw the appeal in this show, i couldn't understand why its popular TBH i think its crap not my sort of thing.

^_^

 

Shamless series 1&2 are pure genius and I only watched them last year!

After that they good but I gave up on series 5 and only just started watching again on series 7,I was hooked and now its finished I feel empty!

Its really funny because I live on a council estate and I actually know ppl that are very similar to some of the characters

 

When shameless first started, I honestly thought it was a pile of crap mainly because of the sight of frank gallagher, it wasn't until last year (during season 6) when i caught an episode that I decided to watch it from the beginning, so I bought the first 5 series and fell in love with the programme. And @ etherea I think it's frank's attitude to his family that makes you uncomfortable, I don't know if you've watched the episodes with monica but she has got to be the worst mother ever, she makes frank look like a seemly decent dad lol

 

It always felt like middle class writers and actors (lovies basically) trying too hard.
I have only seen a few episodes, though.

 

I've kind of caught up I think and yeah, the show is not nearly so good since some of the original actors left but ever the glutton for punishment I'm still watching it. I am fond of that Liam kid.

 

I started watching because out here in the colonies we are bombarded with American programs which tend to depict the norm as being upper crust,intentionally I think so that the masses will aspire to greater wealth.I agree the show went downhill after the first 2 seasons but still watch .It was funnier at first but has become more of a soap opera now,but still amusing at times.

 

An American shameless? This I have to see..what channel is it on?

 

Saw the American version - episode 1 - a week ago Sunday. I have last night taped to watch tonight.

It's on Showtime and you can see the episode online.

I absolutely loved it. My wife says it's like watching a train wreck - you just can't look away. Very raw, very sexual, sometime disturbing. Give it a try.

 

I think they should do an American remake of Emmerdale.

 

LOLZ poor people in America have coco pops for breakfast. In Manchester they only can afford toast and lard.

 

Cheers, I can't find a version without the censorship idiots ruining it. It actually looks like they've not only bought the rights to film and broadcast it but used the actual script as well...it's like a remake. It looks terrible...what the hell is Macy doing?

 

Never seen the British version so it hasn't ruined the American version for me. I thought Episode 1 was better than episode 2 all in all.
Maybe you don't like the vehicle - but I think Macy does a really good job.

And as far as censorship goes - there is language, female full frontal and - hardly ever seen - male genitalia (rather a large one I might add). I think the producers are pushing it about as far as they can get away with.

 

Interesting. Whilst there is a lot of violence and bizarre sexual content in the UK version, I don't think I remember seeing full frontal nudity in it, ever. I suppose in a way you could say it is our equivalent of hardcore japanese porn.

 

disgusting, irreverent.. but soooo funny :sunny:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jx3Zdl_V3zo&feature=related"]YouTube - BANNED Frank Gallagher Alternative Christmas Message