Watch Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle

Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle is a British stand-up comedy television series that aired in 2009. The show is written and presented by the award-winning comedian Stewart Lee, with support from other notable comedians such as Chris Morris. The programme is produced by Richard Webb and directed by Tim Kirkby, and it is distributed by Content Media Corporation.

The premise of the show revolves around Stewart Lee's imaginative and thought-provoking approach to stand-up comedy. Unlike other comedians who rely on cheap jokes and one-liners, Lee's comedy is more contemplative, intellectual, and witty. He often delves into topics such as politics, religion, philosophy, and language, managing to tackle them in a way that is both insightful and entertaining.

The show is typically structured around a series of interconnected routines that build on top of each other to form a compelling narrative. Lee is a skilled storyteller, and his routines often touch on different themes and ideas that are interconnected in surprising and humorous ways. One unique aspect of the show is the use of recurring characters and jokes that crop up throughout the series, tying everything together and adding an element of continuity to the programme.

One of the most striking aspects of the show is the use of meta-comedy, where Lee pokes fun at the conventions of stand-up comedy itself. He often parodies other comedians and their styles, and he'll occasionally deconstruct his own material mid-routine, highlighting the absurdity of the jokes he's making. It makes for a fascinating and refreshing take on the genre, appealing to both those who love stand-up comedy and those who may be skeptical of it.

Another standout feature of the show is the use of visual gags and props to enhance the comedy. For example, in one routine Lee uses a flipchart to explore the differences between the words "logic" and "magic." In another skit, he uses a semi-translucent screen to create a psychedelic effect, accompanying his routine with wild visuals that add a surreal and absurd dimension to the material.

While the show is certainly cerebral and thought-provoking, it's also incredibly funny. Lee has a natural gift for observational humour, and his wry commentary on contemporary culture and society is both incisive and hilarious. He's not afraid to push boundaries and tackle sensitive topics in a way that is both intelligent and respectful, making the comedy accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of audiences.

Chris Morris, a talented comedian in his own right, makes an appearance in the show to lend his support to Lee's unique vision of stand-up comedy. Morris is best known for pushing the envelope in his own work, particularly with his groundbreaking satirical show Brass Eye, and his participation in Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle is sure to delight fans of his work.

Overall, Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle is a must-see for anyone who appreciates clever, original, and hilarious stand-up comedy. With its unique structure, intellectual themes, and wonderfully funny material, it's a show that's sure to stand the test of time as one of the most innovative and enjoyable programmes in the history of the genre.