Watch The Diary of a Nobody

The Diary of a Nobody is an Acorn Media series that first aired in 2007. Starring Hugh Bonneville, this show is a comedic portrayal of suburban life in Victorian England as seen through the eyes of Charles Pooter, a lower-middle-class man who keeps a diary of his daily activities.

The show is based on a book with the same name, written by George and Weedon Grossmith. It was originally published as a serial in Punch magazine in the late 19th century and has since been adapted into numerous stage plays, films, and television series.

Charles Pooter is a clerk who lives in the fictional town of Holloway with his wife Carrie and son Lupin. The show revolves around his comical attempts to rise in social status and his interactions with his eccentric friends and colleagues. Pooter's diary provides a window into his inner thoughts and feelings, which often reveal his insecurities and self-importance.

Hugh Bonneville's performance as Charles Pooter is a highlight of the show. He captures the character's mix of pomposity and vulnerability, making him both endearing and ridiculous. Bonneville's comedic timing is spot-on, bringing the absurd situations to life with a sense of authenticity.

The supporting cast provides a strong grounding for the show's humor. Each character has their own quirks and foibles, from the Pooters' snobbish neighbors to their hapless servant, Sarah. Other notable characters include Pooter's friend Mr. Cummings, who provides much of the show's physical humor, and his son Lupin, a rebellious young man who clashes with his father's values.

The show is well-paced, moving from one comic set piece to another with ease. Each episode offers a self-contained story while still building on the overarching plot of Charles Pooter's attempts to fit into higher society. The Victorian era setting is also well-realized, with attention to detail in the costumes, sets, and language.

One of the strengths of The Diary of a Nobody is its ability to balance humor with pathos. While the show is primarily a comedy, it doesn't shy away from showing the family's struggles and difficulties. The Pooters are not wealthy, and their attempts to impress their neighbors often lead to embarrassment and humiliation. However, these moments of sadness are always undercut by the show's irreverent sense of humor.

Overall, The Diary of a Nobody is a delightful comedy that offers a unique look at Victorian England. Hugh Bonneville's performance as Charles Pooter is a standout, but the entire cast is strong. The show's mix of humor and pathos keeps it from feeling one-note, and its attention to detail in both the setting and characters make it a pleasure to watch.

While the show's original broadcast was over a decade ago, it still holds up as a charming and quirky British comedy. It's a must-watch for fans of Hugh Bonneville and anyone who enjoys a good period piece.