Netflix viewers have voiced their dissatisfaction with Ricky Gervais' new animated series, Alley Cats, citing poor dialogue and excessive swearing within the first few minutes of the first episode.
The series, created, written, and co-directed by Gervais, premiered on the streaming platform on August 7. It follows a group of feral British cats from various social backgrounds as they seek companionship and reflect on everyday life. According to the synopsis, the show is packed with Gervais' signature blend of heart and social commentary.
Early Reactions
One viewer admitted: "I watched 5 mins of it, the dialogue is actually painfully bad." Another claimed to have counted the use of a common swear word, saying: "60 C bombs in 2 episodes, genuinely not even joking."
A third viewer confessed: "I genuinely tried to give it a shot, maybe, just maybe it could’ve been tolerable or slightly enjoyable but b****y hell it really is just effin’ and jeffin’ and sex references, I watched about 5 minutes and gave in, dreadful."
Mixed Opinions
However, not all reactions were negative. Some viewers appreciated the explicit language, with one saying: "If anything, I don’t think Alley Cats has enough swearing." Another praised the show, writing: "Just watched all episodes of Alley Cats with my daughter. Never laughed and cried at the same time since After Life. Thanks @rickygervais for your amazing story telling ability and reminding us what makes us human even if it's using an animated cat to tell us. 10/10."
Another fan added: "Binged @rickygervais Alley Cats..... Funny and wonderfully sad. Brilliant."
Gervais Responds
Gervais responded to potential critics on social media, writing: "If you watch Alley Cats and you get offended at any point, just remember that 1, It’s just a cartoon about cats, and 2, you’re an adult, and can take it" with a crying laughing emoji.
While the series has not yet received a Rotten Tomatoes score, early reviews online echo the same criticism about the frequent swearing.
Alley Cats is streaming on Netflix.
