TV Report Card: Population 11, The Hundred With Andy Lee, The Oscars and News Breakfast

This week we’re taking a road trip to The Kimberley with Population 11, discovering what all the fuss is about with Andy Lee’s show, reliving Ryan Goslings’ Ken-tastic performance at The Oscars and tittering along with News Breakfast.

As for that comedy roast with John Cleese? Sorry, but the less said about THAT the better!

A: Population 11 (Stan)

Having inhaled Last Stop Larrimah, I was interested to check this fictionalised retelling. I was surprised to find it feels quite different, thanks to some great comedic performances and the inclusion of Ben Feldman’s character — he’s fab. The real star of this show, though, is undoubtedly the Kimberley, in all its red, dusty glory — it’s almost a character in itself. Really enjoyed this, and can’t wait to see more. Seek it out.

A-: The Hundred With Andy Lee (Nine)

Not sure why it’s taken me so long to discover this unique show, which sees Andy Lee preside over a panel of 100 people, zooming in from their homes across the country to discuss a variety of topics to ascertain what passes “the pub test”. Such a great concept! I found myself genuinely laughing at some of the stories from the assembled “everyday” people. No wonder this is doing so well in the ratings. A not-so-hidden gem.

B+: The Oscars (Seven)

Hey look, it’s Jimmy Kimmel! But wait — what’s that? Is that . . . Ryan Gosling? In a pink cowboy suit and matching hat? And pink leather gloves, banging out his Ken Klassic with 60 other Kens singing and dancing behind him? It is! And darned if I can remember anything else that happened at last Monday’s ceremony. More Kenergy to every awards from now on, please.

B: News Breakfast (ABC)

I’m not normally a breakfast TV kind of person — ain’t nobody got time for that — but I dipped in the other morning and found myself cackling over the hosts’ interview with Miriam Margolyes. This is live TV, and the look on their faces as the notoriously naughty comedian threatened to talk about what it means to “steam your yoni” was absolutely the best way to start my day. Must remember to watch this more often —and to google what a “yoni” is!

F: The Roast Of John Cleese (Seven)

Goodness, gracious me — what to say about this show? Probably the less the better, if I’m being honest. But I will admit to this: I’ve never felt more uncomfortable watching a televised “comedy” special as I did dipping in to see this group of Aussie comedians “roast” John Cleese live on stage. The whole thing felt so awkward, not even Tom Gleeson’s hilariously cringe-inducing gags could save this for me. Let’s never speak of this again.