Key Highlights
- The third series of “Changing Ends” continues to deliver joy and humor as Alan Carr revisits his coming-of-age story from the 1980s.
- Oliver Savell’s portrayal of young Alan Carr is praised for its uncanny brilliance, capturing the essence of teenage experiences.
- Carr’s sitcom remains a nostalgic charm with attention to detail and relatable characters that make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
- The show successfully balances humor with poignant moments, making it both entertaining and endearing.
Alan Carr’s Return: “Changing Ends” Season 3
Alan Carr, the beloved comedian and TV personality, returns to our screens with the third series of his semi-autobiographical sitcom “Changing Ends.” The show, which originally aired in 1985, has now been given a new lease on life through the talents of both Carr himself and young actor Oliver Savell. This latest installment continues to be a delightful exploration of Carr’s formative years in Northampton during the 1980s.
Oliver Savell Takes the Lead
In this third series, we see Carr as a 13-year-old, played with uncanny brilliance by Oliver Savell. The young Alan is navigating the treacherous waters of adolescence, his hormones raging and his heart set on Jake, a handsome boy in his class who works at the Athena poster shop, which Carr famously dubs “Woolies for perverts.” Savell’s portrayal brings a level of authenticity that ensures viewers can empathize with young Alan’s struggles and triumphs.
Humor and Nostalgia
The sitcom’s humor remains one of its strongest assets. Carr’s witty observations and one-liners are still as sharp as ever, providing the comedic backbone that keeps the show engaging. In a scene where young Alan is dealing with bullies who threw his glasses into a swimming pool, he cleverly retaliates by throwing a chocolate bar in the water, declaring it “poo in the pool.” Such moments showcase the show’s ability to blend humor and relatable experiences.
The comedy comes first, but the show also delves into deeper themes without becoming preachy or mawkish.
For example, Carr’s reflections on his coming-to-terms with his sexuality are delivered with a mix of humor and sincerity. He famously likens women to olives: “They turn your stomach at first, but if you persevere, you learn to love them.” This anecdote is both amusing and insightful into the character’s journey.
Nostalgic Charm
“Changing Ends” not only entertains with its humor but also provides a nostalgic trip back in time. The attention to detail is evident in scenes like young Alan insisting on wearing a swimming cap to avoid a “real cow lick,” or the inclusion of Blue Nun wine in the fridge, which transports viewers to a bygone era. For those who lived through the 1980s, these details offer a sense of familiarity and comfort.
The show’s inventive storytelling technique, switching between young Alan and the older Carr, ensures that the narrative never becomes predictable or tedious.
It is an original way to tell a story, making it both engaging and emotionally resonant. The bullies who tormented young Alan for being “camp” are handled with sensitivity and humor, reflecting the real-life pain but also its lighter side.
Overall, “Changing Ends” continues to be a joy. It is a delightful sitcom that captures the essence of coming-of-age stories with humor, heart, and an authentic touch. For fans of Carr’s work or anyone who appreciates nostalgic humor, this series is not to be missed.
★★★★☆ All episodes are available on ITVX.
