Ricky Gervais' new Netflix animated series 'Alley Cats' is being torn apart by fans, with many critics calling the trailer unfunny and derivative. The show, which follows a clowder of cats surviving on city streets while commenting on modern life, has drawn comparisons to Gervais' recent work, which some view as lacking the wit of his earlier hits like 'The Office' and 'Extras'.
Fan Reactions Pour In
On YouTube, user @bodjac89 wrote: 'Genuinely the least funny trailer I've ever seen, Jesus wept.' Another commenter, @davidbroadhurst6958, added: 'Ricky Gervais has become everything that he used to mock. This looks abysmal.' On Reddit, user Downtown-Ad-311 criticized the show's apparent message: '"Life is a gift" – Does Ricky base all his writing these days on the kind of things you read embroidered on old women's cushions?'
Despite the backlash, some fans expressed cautious optimism. On X, @Miss_Muthoni_ wrote: 'Will definitely be seated for this, looks funny and I love cats.' @GAVIN00006 added: 'I'm sceptical but hopeful, the emotional scene towards the middle gives me hope that this could maybe have a strong emotional core.'
A Departure from Gervais' Best Work
Critics note that Gervais has not written a critically acclaimed TV show in over a decade, with 'Derek' and 'After Life' drawing mixed reviews. The formula often involves a social outsider who teaches profound lessons, with jokes relying on swearing rather than clever writing. 'Alley Cats' appears to follow this pattern, featuring Gervais' regular collaborators Diane Morgan, Tom Basden, and David Earl in predictable roles.
One fan on Reddit, Inevitable-Zone261, remarked: 'I was expecting it to be bad, but Jesus. Gervais sounds like he recorded this as fast as he could whilst lying down.'
Release Date and Context
'Alley Cats' is set to premiere on Netflix on August 7. The show's vocal cast includes Gervais himself, along with Diane Morgan, Tom Basden, and David Earl. While some fans remain hopeful, the overwhelming sentiment online suggests that 'Alley Cats' may struggle to win over audiences who remember Gervais' earlier success.
