Mike Bubbins' Mammoth has found its footing as a subversive sitcom about masculinity, nostalgia, and the absurdities of modern Britain. The show's 53-year-old star plays Tony Mammoth, a PE teacher who was unearthed nearly half a century after being buried in an avalanche. With his dated values and borderline offensive views, Mammoth is a relic of a bygone era - but one that still manages to elicit laughter.
Bubbins' impeccable deadpan delivery brings the show's humor, which flows both ways: when Mammoth looks at modern society with disdain, it can be hard not to laugh. But there's also a genuine affection for his protagonist, who embodies unshakeable confidence and breathtaking selfishness. As Mammoth struggles to comprehend present-day tastes, we're on his side, enjoying the nostalgia and comfort of seeing him indulge in old habits like sipping Cinzano or watching Minder.
This second series sees Mammoth bond with Michael (Al Roberts), a younger man who fetishizes the 1970s, but some gulf remains unbridgeable - like when Michael requests alcohol-free beer. Bubbins' creation is fueled by his heartfelt obsession with the decade, and it shows in every aspect of the show.
However, while Mammoth has its moments, other characters often fall short. Joel Davison's Theo is a low-energy wallflower who contrasts starkly with his grandfather, but others, like Mel (Sian Gibson), struggle to make an impact due to their accents. Sometimes, this break in tone disrupts the show's spell.
By the end of this second series, Mammoth has started to wear thin - not necessarily because it needs improvement, but perhaps because we've had a taste of its unique brand of humor. The question remains: can Tony Mammoth evolve into someone who prioritizes others and takes safety seriously? If so, would that be any less fun?
Bubbins' impeccable deadpan delivery brings the show's humor, which flows both ways: when Mammoth looks at modern society with disdain, it can be hard not to laugh. But there's also a genuine affection for his protagonist, who embodies unshakeable confidence and breathtaking selfishness. As Mammoth struggles to comprehend present-day tastes, we're on his side, enjoying the nostalgia and comfort of seeing him indulge in old habits like sipping Cinzano or watching Minder.
This second series sees Mammoth bond with Michael (Al Roberts), a younger man who fetishizes the 1970s, but some gulf remains unbridgeable - like when Michael requests alcohol-free beer. Bubbins' creation is fueled by his heartfelt obsession with the decade, and it shows in every aspect of the show.
However, while Mammoth has its moments, other characters often fall short. Joel Davison's Theo is a low-energy wallflower who contrasts starkly with his grandfather, but others, like Mel (Sian Gibson), struggle to make an impact due to their accents. Sometimes, this break in tone disrupts the show's spell.
By the end of this second series, Mammoth has started to wear thin - not necessarily because it needs improvement, but perhaps because we've had a taste of its unique brand of humor. The question remains: can Tony Mammoth evolve into someone who prioritizes others and takes safety seriously? If so, would that be any less fun?