The first series is interesting to watch, as it deals with the opening of the Fawlty Towers-esque Whitbury leisure centre and is more of a mini-series than what I remember of the other series. Like the first series of Red Dwarf, it is more concerned with character interaction and development than formulaic slapstick (if only Fawlty Towers itself could have been more like this!). Indeed the end of the series raises a question mark over its whole future - perhaps the writers weren't confident of a second series - and made it an excellent example of Britcom writing at its best, and a good programme for aspiring comedy writers to learn from.

One star off for the irritating theme music which pervades every inch of the DVD outside the episodes, though...not one of the Beeb's finest, unlike the AbFab "Wheels on Fire" or Red Dwarf's hymn to nonsense.

Another great tv comedy.
Review date: 2004-03-17 Rating: 8 out of 10

Although better known as 'Rimmer' in 'Red Dwarf' Chris Barrie excels as the overly caring Gordon Brittas, manager of Whitbury New Town Leisure Centre. Of course, it's because he cares so much that he irritates everyone & messes everything up!

Even if you don't think this series is the best or funniest you've ever seen, stick with it as it does get better!

GOOD CLEAN FAMILY FUN
Review date: 2004-03-13 Rating: 10 out of 10

I loved this when it was on TV and videoed a few episodes. Now my sons (8 and 10) can enjoy them - few shows are so funny and completely clean!!!

Classic Comedy
Review date: 2004-02-25 Rating: 8 out of 10

Yes, Brittas Empire is up there with the rest of them.
It won't appeal to all comedy tastes; it might be considered a bit light, silly or safe maybe.

Still, Chris Barrie shows how one good character idea,a well-tuned script and a fine comedy actor can make a show work. It's not like Basil Fawlty though, I suppose it has similarities. It is more subtle humour, rather than farcsical.

If you suffered at the hands of 80's/90's middle management theories, you should like this.

I love the pettiness of Brittas; ..having staff sign-out a borrowed pen. His secretary who sees through him and gives him all he deserves.

I wasn't too keen on the character development of Mrs Brittas I have to say - even though it was fairly well played. I think it would have been funnier if we had NOT seen Mrs B (as in Mrs Mainwaring of Dad's Army). Towards the end it lost it's way a little with the overdevelopment of Mrs Brittas and Colin, but they were well played and quite funny. I guess they ran out of Brittas lines??

i'd happily watch most episodes and probably laugh quite a lot.
I just wish Chris Barrie could find more quality scripts like this one.

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