Posted on Sunday, 19th October 2008 by astronomius
“He’s a quiet guy, practically silent, but also thoughtful… curious: a real observant fellow. And a bit of a disaster.” - - this is Disney Channel’s voiced-over description of their new comedy character, “Brian O’ Brian”, for the show’s TV promotional spot.
Disney Channel regular Brian Stepanek (”Arwin” from “Suite Life”) stars in and co-writes each short, interstitial episode with his writing partner, director Danny Kaplan (lead writer of “As The Bell Rings”), and the result is intelligently hilarious.
“Brian O’ Brian” is essentially about a well-meaning, child-like doofus who bumbles his way into an everyday situation in each short, self-contained episode; he does dress and groom himself well, however.
None of the show’s characters speak any dialogue, which frees the actors, writers, director, special effects and camera crew to use physical action and expression to its fullest extent, but the show does use a pre-recorded laugh-track to gently guide the viewer along through the action.
Though the concept of “Brian O’ Brian” is not entirely original (ala Charlie Chaplin, Ernie Kovacs and Mr. Bean), the series is unique to Disney Channel in that its intentional lack of dialogue transcends any language barrier and viewer age and easily enables the episodes to be viewed and distributed internationally.
Another unique feature of the show is that it is filmed in Italy (near Milan) and has a classy, European look; Brian Stepanek, the show’s star, says he enjoys working for Disney Channel there…
Stepanek is also scheduled to appear on “The Suite Life On Deck”, where he will reunite with former cast members (from the original “Suite Life”) in a guest role(s); one episode has him playing dual roles as both “Arwin Hawkhauser” and one of Arwin’s relatives.
“Brian O” Brian” is thoroughly enjoyable, must-see Disney Channel TV, and ideas for keeping the show fresh and funny are nearly inexhaustable.
Premiere dates differ, but the US premiere was on Oct. 3rd, 2008.
Episode length: under five minutes.
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