Catherine Tate: Laughing at the Noughties

Catherine Tate, the British comedian and actress, reflects on the Noughties decade in this comedy documentary, a decade that catapulted her to stardom and left an indelible mark on British comedy. Joining her for this nostalgic look at the era are Alan Carr, David Walliams, Noel Fielding, Rob Brydon, and David Tennant, with whom she shared the screen as Donna Noble in the Doctor Who series. Together, they revisit the greatest comedy moments that defined the Noughties, a decade that produced some of the most innovative, outrageous, and side-splitttingly funny comedy sketches. The decade saw the rise of Catherine Tate's career, thanks in large part to her breakout sketch show The Catherine Tate Show, which showcased her remarkable impressions and comedic prowess. With her sharp wit, impeccable timing, and quick-change skills, Tate quickly became a household name, charming audiences with her eccentric and relatable characters. Her sketches often tackled taboos, societal norms, and British stereotypes, making her a beloved and incisive voice in British comedy. Alan Carr, a fellow comedy legend, reminiscences about the heyday of the Noughties, when comedy was becoming more accepting and inclusive. He reflects on the influence of comedy figures like Ricky Gervais, who revolutionized British comedy with The Office, which paved the way for more irreverent, honest, and raw comedy. The Office's influence can be seen in many of the Noughties' comedy shows, including The Catherine Tate Show, which cleverly exploited the awkwardness of British everyday life. David Walliams, another star of the decade, credits Catherine Tate's The Catherine Tate Show for its groundbreaking format, which seamlessly transitioned between sketches, characters, and narratives. He praises Tate's uncanny ability to evoke the spirit of British eccentricity and her gift for finding the humor in even the most mundane situations. Noel Fielding, the comedian and TV presenter, also pays tribute to Tate's impact on British comedy, citing her influence on the next generation of comedians. The documentary is not just a stroll down nostalgia lane, but also a thoughtful exploration of the cultural context that fueled these comedy moments. Newsreel and pop culture archival footage contextualizing the decade provides a vivid backdrop for the comedy, revealing not just what was funny but why it was funny. For instance, the rise of celebrity culture, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and the increasing visibility of LGBTQ+ rights were all subjects tackled by comedians during the Noughties, often through satire and social commentary. Rob Brydon, a stalwart of British comedy, shares anecdotes about his encounters with Catherine Tate, highlighting her generosity, humility, and infectious energy. David Tennant, Tate's Doctor Who co-star, reveals his admiration for her intelligence, creativity, and quick wit, which made filming scenes for Doctor Who a joyous experience. These recollections not only humanize the comedians but also underscore the collaborative nature of British comedy, where friendships and camaraderie often drive creative breakthroughs. Throughout the documentary, Catherine Tate is revealed as the embodiment of British comedic spirit – irreverent, mischievous, and quick-witted. Her love of characters like Joannie Taylor, the eccentric and precocious schoolgirl, showcases her knack for creating endearing yet relatable personas. Tate also discusses her admiration for British comedy legends like Peter Sellers and Spike Milligan, whose innovative brand of surreal and deadpan comedy continues to influence modern British comedy. In Laughing at the Noughties, Catherine Tate and her fellow comedians offer an incisive, witty, and affectionate tribute to a decade that gave birth to some of the most innovative comedy moments in recent history. The documentary provides a comprehensive picture of the decade's comedy landscape, highlighting its defining characteristics, trends, and personalities. Above all, it celebrates the power of comedy to challenge, entertain, and unite audiences, making the Noughties a defining era in British comedy history.