Psychobitches

Psychobitches is a delightful yet daring British comedy sketch show presented by Sky Arts. The series, which aired from 2013 to 2014 under the distinct brand of 'Playhouse Presents', is distinctive in its treatment of famous and infamous women from history and contemporary times, all gathered in a therapist's office. The show puts a comedic spin on the experiences and idiosyncrasies of these women, making it a unique comedic viewing experience that seamlessly merges historical intrigue with humor.

Produced by BBC Worldwide, Psychobitches is a fusion of drama, history, and rib-ticking humor. The ingenuity of the series lies in its unique concept: it sets famous women in time before an unseen therapist, where they reveal their hearts, insecurities, egos, and quirkiness. This simple yet clever setup encourages both a playful revisiting of these women's stories and an exploration of their personalities supplemented by a generous dose of hilariously overdrawn interpretations adding to the humor.

The show stars Rebecca Front as the unnamed Therapist guiding the sessions and trying her best to assist these larger-than-life characters in dealing with their psychological burdens. A plethora of female comedy legends like Sharon Horgan, Samantha Spiro, Frances Barber and Julia Davis form the stunning ensemble that morphs into kit-kat girls, child queens, medieval saints, and literary giants to engage viewers in a whirlwind of character-driven comedy.

Even though Psychobitches features women from different eras and professions - from writers like Virginia Woolf and Sylvia Plath to queens like Elizabeth I and Marie Antoinette - it does an impressive job of characterizing these iconic figures in a humorous yet respectful manner. The show manages to humanize these women, pulling them out of the formal confines of history textbooks and presenting them as real, albeit exaggerated, individuals.

The writing is sharp and clever, with witty dialogue and rapid-fire exchanges. While the series is definitely steeped in British humour, it also dabbles with absurdism and dark comedy. The comedic narrative is spun around the personal and professional lives of these women, their hidden traumas, and often absurdly inflated follies. The comedy often stems from the clash of ancient history or archaic ideals with contemporary language and thoughts.

One remarkable element of Psychobitches is its ability to be simultaneously richly comedic and widely educational. Even though the primary aim is to tickle the funny bone, it doesn't shy away from showcasing a little bit of history, albeit in a dramatically altered and comical way. In that sense, the show stands as an innovative approach to comedically interpret historical narratives through a distinctly modern and satirical lens. Their connection to the contemporary world hints at the essence of modernity found in even the most ancient of figures.

The standout accomplishment of the show, however, lies at the intersection of impressive performances, distinctive writing, and inventive conceptualisation. Its success is rooted in the incredible chemistry among the cast and their remarkable ability to impersonate the historical characters with finesse and élan. Whether it's Joan of Arc complaining about her voices, or Eve keen on proving her innocence regarding the apple incident, the mix of comedy and performance art makes for an unforgettable viewing experience.

Despite its short run, Psychobitches has made a significant impact on British television comedy. The series is an inviting blend of history, humor, and innovative scenario work that makes an insightful commentary on women's roles across the ages. Each episode is a masterclass of brilliantly executed sketches, offering humour, satire, and insightful wit. For viewers who enjoy their humor smart and their sketches with substance, Psychobitches is a notable addition to their watchlist.

In conclusion, Psychobitches does the tricky task of juggling education and entertainment, offering viewers a unique comic reimagining of history’s most famous women. Featuring strong performances and clever writing, this hilariously forward-thinking series offers comedy with depth, making it a must-watch for those seeking laughter with intellectual undertones.