Johnny Vegas: 18 Stone of Idiot DVD Review:

Neil Hamilton dancing in a cage whilst fish are thrown over him, Roland from Grange Hill downing a bottle of ketchup in less than 33 seconds, and the host pissing himself in front of Huey from the Fun Lovin’ Criminals – just a few of the delights on offer in this 78-minute compilation of highlights and previously unseen footage from Johnny Vegas’ Friday night show.

This show, produced by Chris Evans and having more than a touch of TFI Friday about it, seems to go out of its way to push the boundaries of broadcast and, indeed, laddishness, which results in a programme that is largely incoherent and unwatchable.

It is a drunken mix of aggressive stand up and chat show, with candid camera elements, where Vegas trys to score drugs. Largely cringe-worthy, much of it is difficult and dull to watch. The show’s main theme is pub banter, making most of what is said unfunny, self-indulgent and messy.

Vegas came across as a bit rough around the edges before this show, but also as quite sweet – a charming, self-depreciating figure. This show has snatched this image away, leaving him looking like an abusive Camden tramp. And that may do the tramps a disservice.

The extras are quite comprehensive and the highpoint (if there could be said to be a highpoint) of the DVD. There’s a truly honest commentary by Vegas on the people and various antics on the show, which is quite interesting.

There’s also a Celebrity Lock-in programme which Vegas made for E4, lots of outtakes, a Celebrity Poker sketch, a Baboon piece and a variety of other extras which are really for the hardcore fans of the show.

18 Stone of Idiot has few redeeming features. Makes Trisha look like Newsnight – one to avoid.



Sian Thatcher