I happened upon this programme by accident as whilst enjoying The Office and Extras I'd become a little bored of Ricky Gervaises Hollywood offerings. I'd never heard of Karl Pilkington, but within minutes of watching the first episode I was crying with laughter. Karl's view of the world is so honest and uneffected that he says what the rest of us are thinking most of the time. Pure genius - a travel programme that doesn't take itself seriously, is funny yet still hits the emotional buttons in each of the episodes I've watched so far. From a travel perspective he stays in places that your average tourists wouldn't stay in and whilst not necessarily enjoying the experience Karl makes an effort to immerse himself in the local culture. He is full of wisdom - and totally without the BS I see in so many other travel programmes.....Karl - you are a star!
58 Reviews
who's the idiot
edumacated24 September 2010
if you're complaining that there is no gervais or merchant, then you're not getting it.
gervais has made lots of cash from claiming pilkington is an idiot, but after seeing the man through his own speech and action, then i have to disagree. and i wonder if this isn't another layer of gervais' caustic social commentary.
but if gervais actually thinks carl is a fool, then i have to say the joke is on him.
pilkington is a master of everyday, ultimate truth. a mastery that kicks the crap out of the vacillations of gervais, merchant, Nietzsche and me.
this man's brain boils down the b.s. of both the ancient and modern world, and turns all of it into simple equations -- with answers.
his conclusions must confuse populist, false intellectuals. and they wonder why? their training does not prepare them for carl; and the primary reason is: for many school smart people, the obvious is hard to grasp. and unfortunately; these are usually the same people who end up on television telling us what to think.
but i love his answers.
his shtick is the twisted mirror image of the fool thought sage.
gervais has made lots of cash from claiming pilkington is an idiot, but after seeing the man through his own speech and action, then i have to disagree. and i wonder if this isn't another layer of gervais' caustic social commentary.
but if gervais actually thinks carl is a fool, then i have to say the joke is on him.
pilkington is a master of everyday, ultimate truth. a mastery that kicks the crap out of the vacillations of gervais, merchant, Nietzsche and me.
this man's brain boils down the b.s. of both the ancient and modern world, and turns all of it into simple equations -- with answers.
his conclusions must confuse populist, false intellectuals. and they wonder why? their training does not prepare them for carl; and the primary reason is: for many school smart people, the obvious is hard to grasp. and unfortunately; these are usually the same people who end up on television telling us what to think.
but i love his answers.
his shtick is the twisted mirror image of the fool thought sage.
Irreverent and silly yet so much fun!
janicenichols-3256529 September 2018
Ok it has its really dumb moments where you're not quite sure if it's scripted or not, but for the most part this is a laugh-out-loud show that ironically gave me a lot of travel ideas! Ricky Gervais is hilarious in this too! His giggles are hysterical. Do watch!
Absolutely fantastic!
derektrotteresq1 October 2010
This is what a travel show should be. It's not sugar coated and it's not like any show thats come before. It's a regular bloke, sent abroad, speaking his mind. Is Karl Pilkington an idiot? Is he a genius? It's very hard to tell, but I can tell you one thing and that is, i could watch the bloke on TV all day long and not get bored. One reviewer was complaining that the show was crap (before it aired i might add) because Gervais and Merchant were not in the show as it appeared that they were in the poster campaign.... I couldn't disagree with the reviewer more; Karl Pilkington is what makes 'the Ricky Gervais' podcasts funny and Karl Pilkington is what makes this show funny.
Gervais and Merchant are fantastic writers and the Office and Extra's are amazing but at the same time, they know that Pilkington was the main drawer for their podcast and they very wisely came up with this little gem and for that, i applaud them.
Gervais and Merchant are fantastic writers and the Office and Extra's are amazing but at the same time, they know that Pilkington was the main drawer for their podcast and they very wisely came up with this little gem and for that, i applaud them.
If you like Karl Pilkington, then you'll love this.
MovieAddict201630 September 2010
People either love or hate Karl Pilkington. There isn't much middle ground. If you've been following the XFM radio show and podcasts over the past few years, you'll be well aware of the man and may even be part of his ever-growing cult following -- the bald Manc tw@t who began his career as the radio producer for Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant single-handedly stole the show from both of them, effectively making it The Karl Pilkington Show.
Gervais had the rather genius idea of sending Karl around the world for this documentary to give his take on the "seven wonders of the world" (this was, in fact, its original title, before Gervais changed it in post-production to An Idiot Abroad, unbeknownst to Pilkington himself).
If you "get" Pilkington then you will adore this. You'll find his dry humour and insights to be brilliant. (His detractors claim he's simply stupid, but there is a certain level of genius to the majority of his comments and quick wit, including that story about the toad at the end of episode one and how he masterfully tied it together with the theme of the episode itself and his earlier experiences attempting to eat one of the creatures.) It's just great fun. I can't wait to watch the rest of the season. And if by chance you stumble across this show and enjoy it, do yourself a huge favour and go download the XFM shows and podcasts featuring Ricky, Steve and Karl -- some of the funniest recordings you'll ever listen to.
Gervais had the rather genius idea of sending Karl around the world for this documentary to give his take on the "seven wonders of the world" (this was, in fact, its original title, before Gervais changed it in post-production to An Idiot Abroad, unbeknownst to Pilkington himself).
If you "get" Pilkington then you will adore this. You'll find his dry humour and insights to be brilliant. (His detractors claim he's simply stupid, but there is a certain level of genius to the majority of his comments and quick wit, including that story about the toad at the end of episode one and how he masterfully tied it together with the theme of the episode itself and his earlier experiences attempting to eat one of the creatures.) It's just great fun. I can't wait to watch the rest of the season. And if by chance you stumble across this show and enjoy it, do yourself a huge favour and go download the XFM shows and podcasts featuring Ricky, Steve and Karl -- some of the funniest recordings you'll ever listen to.
Funny, original, and the story of a man's journey outside his comfort zone
kcfan-324 September 2010
Warning: Spoilers
Karl Pilkington is Britain's everyman. He loves what he's used to, and that's all he knows. Before Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant sent him on his own personal odyssey he'd only ever been to Wales. By his own admission he pays his way in life, has a steady girlfriend and is as happy as a man with a perpetually glum expression can be.
Gervais and Merchant thought it would be fun to send him around the world to see the Seven Wonders; Merchant, because he thought it would be enlightening for Karl, and Gervais because he knew Karl would hate it. The result is An Idiot Abroad, first broadcast on Sky 1 and Sky 1 HD in the UK. The pilot episode saw Ricky and Stephen sending Karl to China to experience the Great Wall, which Karl likened to a 'Wimpey home' due to its modernisation in the 80's, and the M6 motorway because it stretches for miles. The politically correct would probably berate Karl for his honest points of view, but all of it is done with no malice or vindictiveness - purely his own opinion stated with innocence and somewhat childlike wonder.
Karl puts into words what we all think when we go abroad - for example, public toilets in China have no doors and no toilet rolls. As a Brit abroad, this would also perplex me. One particularly hilarious scene in the pilot showed Pilkington watching a Kung Fu master throwing a needle through a pane of glass and popping a balloon. Karl tried this, and ended up skewering his cameraman in the arm (said cameraman carried on filming like a true pro!)
I found myself laughing hysterically at Karl's misadventures, and look forward to more of the same. It's probably the most original travel documentary I've ever seen. None of it is contrived or feels forced, unlike some of Gervais's previous work, but for me this was great entertainment and good value for my Sky subscription. Roll on episode 2!
Gervais and Merchant thought it would be fun to send him around the world to see the Seven Wonders; Merchant, because he thought it would be enlightening for Karl, and Gervais because he knew Karl would hate it. The result is An Idiot Abroad, first broadcast on Sky 1 and Sky 1 HD in the UK. The pilot episode saw Ricky and Stephen sending Karl to China to experience the Great Wall, which Karl likened to a 'Wimpey home' due to its modernisation in the 80's, and the M6 motorway because it stretches for miles. The politically correct would probably berate Karl for his honest points of view, but all of it is done with no malice or vindictiveness - purely his own opinion stated with innocence and somewhat childlike wonder.
Karl puts into words what we all think when we go abroad - for example, public toilets in China have no doors and no toilet rolls. As a Brit abroad, this would also perplex me. One particularly hilarious scene in the pilot showed Pilkington watching a Kung Fu master throwing a needle through a pane of glass and popping a balloon. Karl tried this, and ended up skewering his cameraman in the arm (said cameraman carried on filming like a true pro!)
I found myself laughing hysterically at Karl's misadventures, and look forward to more of the same. It's probably the most original travel documentary I've ever seen. None of it is contrived or feels forced, unlike some of Gervais's previous work, but for me this was great entertainment and good value for my Sky subscription. Roll on episode 2!
Idiot Abroad
writesromine2 June 2011
Warning: Spoilers
This is not my usual Prime Time article as it is a cross genre topic. However, this does fall into the Prime Time slot, and I am excited about this show, so here we go.
Idiot Abroad is a Science Channel reality documentary. The brain child of Ricky Gervais, well know comedic writer and actor.
Ricky Gervais calls An Idiot Abroad, "The most expensive practical joke I've ever done.", per the official show page.
Ricky and longtime friend Stephen Merchant sent their uncultured colleague, Karl Pilkington, to visit the 7 Wonders of the World. The question posed to the audience, will it open his eyes, or will he hate every second?
Critics alike have either loved or hated this program, some stating it is the most boring show ever, and others stating that it is a work of hilarious brilliance. I fall into the latter of the two groups.
Karl Pilkington is a simple guy who rarely ventures far from his doorstep. He is not an idiot, he is more a man with a unique view of the world. A perfect example is a quote from when Ricky and Stephen first had a conversation with Karl about filming the program. His response was that he was concerned about going to a different country and eating something like toad and liking it. What was he going to do when he gets back to the UK and he can't eat toad any more?
The simple brilliance of the man is astounding. You are truly looking at these completely foreign and amazing cultures through his eyes and it is hilarious. Some people have stated that he is an idiot, and therefore the show is a big joke. I wholeheartedly disagree. While this program started as a fabulous prank, Karl has several moments of brilliance.
On the Wailing Wall: "If an alien landed and for some reason it picked me and it would go, 'Karl, you're our leader whilst we're here. Why do people do this in Israel?' Dunno. How do you explain that?"
Thoughts on the Great Wall of China: "They say it goes on for miles. Well, so does the M-6. You can see that for miles, and that does a job! You can drive on that."
On the Taj Mahal "It took 20 years to build. He built it for his dead wife. I just think it was a way of keeping himself busy. They say that, don't they? When someone dies, it's a loss in your life so you give yourself a project to do."
On Mexican View of Death: "We find it all a bit morbid, don't we? We don't like to talk about it. Certainly don't have a day dedicated to it. But then we waste days on, you know, dedicated to like, Pancake Tuesday. Why have we got a day for pancakes?"
Ricky and Stephen had a wonderful time torturing Karl, scheduling his dinners, his hotel rooms, and the different events to get the maximum reaction to the surrounding culture. No luxuries or barriers. Karl deals with it all and comes out a better person in the end.
Idiot abroad is a remarkable look at the cultures and customs of humanity through the eyes of a child. The seven wonders of the modern world as processed by an untainted mind, colored with simple amazement, confusion, and the visual comprehension of the illogical and sometimes absurd realities of the modern world.
Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant are truly brilliant men, understanding the working of the human mind and thought process. Now if Ricky were to read that statement I think he would laugh aloud and proclaim it was a prank!
Prank or not, it is entertainment and social commentary at it's very best.
Amy Romine BellaOnline's Prime Time TV Editor
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art24435.asp
Idiot Abroad is a Science Channel reality documentary. The brain child of Ricky Gervais, well know comedic writer and actor.
Ricky Gervais calls An Idiot Abroad, "The most expensive practical joke I've ever done.", per the official show page.
Ricky and longtime friend Stephen Merchant sent their uncultured colleague, Karl Pilkington, to visit the 7 Wonders of the World. The question posed to the audience, will it open his eyes, or will he hate every second?
Critics alike have either loved or hated this program, some stating it is the most boring show ever, and others stating that it is a work of hilarious brilliance. I fall into the latter of the two groups.
Karl Pilkington is a simple guy who rarely ventures far from his doorstep. He is not an idiot, he is more a man with a unique view of the world. A perfect example is a quote from when Ricky and Stephen first had a conversation with Karl about filming the program. His response was that he was concerned about going to a different country and eating something like toad and liking it. What was he going to do when he gets back to the UK and he can't eat toad any more?
The simple brilliance of the man is astounding. You are truly looking at these completely foreign and amazing cultures through his eyes and it is hilarious. Some people have stated that he is an idiot, and therefore the show is a big joke. I wholeheartedly disagree. While this program started as a fabulous prank, Karl has several moments of brilliance.
On the Wailing Wall: "If an alien landed and for some reason it picked me and it would go, 'Karl, you're our leader whilst we're here. Why do people do this in Israel?' Dunno. How do you explain that?"
Thoughts on the Great Wall of China: "They say it goes on for miles. Well, so does the M-6. You can see that for miles, and that does a job! You can drive on that."
On the Taj Mahal "It took 20 years to build. He built it for his dead wife. I just think it was a way of keeping himself busy. They say that, don't they? When someone dies, it's a loss in your life so you give yourself a project to do."
On Mexican View of Death: "We find it all a bit morbid, don't we? We don't like to talk about it. Certainly don't have a day dedicated to it. But then we waste days on, you know, dedicated to like, Pancake Tuesday. Why have we got a day for pancakes?"
Ricky and Stephen had a wonderful time torturing Karl, scheduling his dinners, his hotel rooms, and the different events to get the maximum reaction to the surrounding culture. No luxuries or barriers. Karl deals with it all and comes out a better person in the end.
Idiot abroad is a remarkable look at the cultures and customs of humanity through the eyes of a child. The seven wonders of the modern world as processed by an untainted mind, colored with simple amazement, confusion, and the visual comprehension of the illogical and sometimes absurd realities of the modern world.
Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant are truly brilliant men, understanding the working of the human mind and thought process. Now if Ricky were to read that statement I think he would laugh aloud and proclaim it was a prank!
Prank or not, it is entertainment and social commentary at it's very best.
Amy Romine BellaOnline's Prime Time TV Editor
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art24435.asp
One of the greatest travel shows ever
amesmonde7 December 2010
An Idiot Abroad features a guy who loves the comfort of his own home travelling the globe in order to visit each of the Seven Wonders of the World.
A friend of actor/comedians Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant who also appear in the series, Karl at times comes across as a dim wit but most of the time makes some hilarious observations and raises questions monkeys want answering.
This is one of the greatest travel shows you'll ever see, there is a truth and an unwitting innocence in everything Karl Pilkington says and does. With comments like "...a little tornado innit. You don't see that in the brochure. Shitty old nappy whizzing through the air. They tend to leave that out." While standing in Egypt not far from the Pyramids of Gaza. "What's so good about The Amazon? Can't be that good; there are things in it that would rather live in me knob." And (on The Great Wall of China) "Just goes for miles and miles....but so does the M6."
Granted not everyone will get the British humour or the jokes but there is pleasure in watching presenter Karls pain as he stays in some rotten places, meets some 'interesting' people and eats some varied foods.
In season two it's more of the same only this time Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant have put together a bucket list - things to do before you die. Karl sets off on his travels this time carrying out tasks that most wouldn't want to do, as well as visiting countries and experiencing their diverse cultures.
It's a kind of Michael Palin gone wrong, mixed with the characters Frank Spencer and Victor Meldrew. You get to follow Karl on his highs and lows, highly recommend reality TV.
A friend of actor/comedians Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant who also appear in the series, Karl at times comes across as a dim wit but most of the time makes some hilarious observations and raises questions monkeys want answering.
This is one of the greatest travel shows you'll ever see, there is a truth and an unwitting innocence in everything Karl Pilkington says and does. With comments like "...a little tornado innit. You don't see that in the brochure. Shitty old nappy whizzing through the air. They tend to leave that out." While standing in Egypt not far from the Pyramids of Gaza. "What's so good about The Amazon? Can't be that good; there are things in it that would rather live in me knob." And (on The Great Wall of China) "Just goes for miles and miles....but so does the M6."
Granted not everyone will get the British humour or the jokes but there is pleasure in watching presenter Karls pain as he stays in some rotten places, meets some 'interesting' people and eats some varied foods.
In season two it's more of the same only this time Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant have put together a bucket list - things to do before you die. Karl sets off on his travels this time carrying out tasks that most wouldn't want to do, as well as visiting countries and experiencing their diverse cultures.
It's a kind of Michael Palin gone wrong, mixed with the characters Frank Spencer and Victor Meldrew. You get to follow Karl on his highs and lows, highly recommend reality TV.
1,000,000 of travel documentaries, only 1 worth watching, Karl you are a star!
djwilson-861-7920203 October 2010
Warning: Spoilers
Karl is me. Karl likes travelling in style. Karl loves to be clean.
I love this.
Karl is forced to experience the "real" world of gap year travel adventures. The horror is "real" and I felt for Karl at every point in this simply wonderful program. This is not about Ricky or Steve, this is about the power they have to make a man desperate for fame and money do anything they want to. It is a power we all wished we had at sometime in our lives.
Karl becomes their victim, their toy, their muse. Karl shows how a man with simple thoughts and simple requirements finds the pain of earning success almost breaks him. The romance of travel is well and truly removed by this show yet at the same time the super high definition video is more breathtaking than any travel show I have ever seen.
You will laugh to you cry at poor Karl, the best thing Sky have ever made. I am ordering my Bluray after only seeing the first two programs and I know it will be money well spent.
I love this.
Karl is forced to experience the "real" world of gap year travel adventures. The horror is "real" and I felt for Karl at every point in this simply wonderful program. This is not about Ricky or Steve, this is about the power they have to make a man desperate for fame and money do anything they want to. It is a power we all wished we had at sometime in our lives.
Karl becomes their victim, their toy, their muse. Karl shows how a man with simple thoughts and simple requirements finds the pain of earning success almost breaks him. The romance of travel is well and truly removed by this show yet at the same time the super high definition video is more breathtaking than any travel show I have ever seen.
You will laugh to you cry at poor Karl, the best thing Sky have ever made. I am ordering my Bluray after only seeing the first two programs and I know it will be money well spent.
Really funny.....for the most part
lton6519 October 2010
I love Karl Pilkington and have loved this series to date (4 episodes). I agree with many other reviews that certain parts were disappointing e.g the Israeli kidnapping, but in the main the show has been fantastic. Karl Pilkington is both the weirdest bloke I've ever seen but at the same time the most normal too....go figure! I love his monologues and anecdotes and my only complaint would be that the show should have more of these and fewer gimmicks/stunts.
As a concept, the show is great. Miserable, small-headed Manc going around the world's most prestigious and cultural locations moaning about them all. If you can just ignore the occasional blatant contrivance and enjoy the show for what it is, you'll love it.
Best line ever on the nudist beach, "Never seen anyone bend down as much as that bloke!" - quality!
As a concept, the show is great. Miserable, small-headed Manc going around the world's most prestigious and cultural locations moaning about them all. If you can just ignore the occasional blatant contrivance and enjoy the show for what it is, you'll love it.
Best line ever on the nudist beach, "Never seen anyone bend down as much as that bloke!" - quality!
Karl Pilkington has the goofy likability of Homer Simpson
SnoopyStyle6 August 2014
Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant are making a travel show except they're not going anywhere. They're sending fellow Brit Karl Pilkington. He's not so comfortable with change. He doesn't like to travel. He's the likable fool who is being manipulated and slowly tortured with uncomfortable assignments to the enjoyment of Ricky. Stephen has higher ideals and hopes to broadening Karl's experiences.
The more Karl suffers, the funnier this show becomes. The genius of this show is that Karl is a nice person at his heart. He has a similar goofy likability as Homer Simpson. He's a child sometimes but he also has an insight that only a clueless savant could have. The first season is the funniest. The second season is still good. In the third season, the show pairs Karl with famous dwarf Warwick Davis. I don't think it's as funny as Ricky hopes for but it does improve as Karl and Warwick develop some chemistry. The problem with Warwick is that he's angry not in a likable way. I have to rate it lower for that.
The more Karl suffers, the funnier this show becomes. The genius of this show is that Karl is a nice person at his heart. He has a similar goofy likability as Homer Simpson. He's a child sometimes but he also has an insight that only a clueless savant could have. The first season is the funniest. The second season is still good. In the third season, the show pairs Karl with famous dwarf Warwick Davis. I don't think it's as funny as Ricky hopes for but it does improve as Karl and Warwick develop some chemistry. The problem with Warwick is that he's angry not in a likable way. I have to rate it lower for that.
You'll find no better travel guide...
nitedrive7317 March 2011
Finally,an honest travel guide to accompany you to the most famous sightings in the world.Don't expect adoring sighs and ramblings about the lovely local beverages and cuisine though.
And that's exactly what makes this series a stroke of genius.Karl is a reluctant traveler and not easily impressed.He engages in philosophical monologues,and he's almost always spot-on.Even the most experienced globe-trotter laughing at Karls awkward attempts to mount a Mexican rodeo horse or Egyptian camel will probably agree,even if not out loud. Most exotic activities and festivities he will refer to as being "mental". He fills his suitcase with Monster Munch thus hoping to evade the worst expressions of local cuisine.Such as toad and balls. To no avail.Because Gervais and Merchant have,naturellement,booked him at the scruffiest of hotels(if he even gets to a hotel)and arranged for him to eat and experience things he probably never wanted to do ever in his life.To make things worse they send numerous text messages simply to annoy him.At one point Karl ponders the use of modern technology in the western world,how we mostly use it as entertainment. Behind him deaf Egyptian fast-food restaurant employees use their mobiles to make video calls. And Karl produces his own mobile to show for the camera what his friend Ricky G usually send him. I love it.Every annoying thing about traveling that you never dared to mention to your people-of-world friends will be aired here. Go watch!Pronto!
And that's exactly what makes this series a stroke of genius.Karl is a reluctant traveler and not easily impressed.He engages in philosophical monologues,and he's almost always spot-on.Even the most experienced globe-trotter laughing at Karls awkward attempts to mount a Mexican rodeo horse or Egyptian camel will probably agree,even if not out loud. Most exotic activities and festivities he will refer to as being "mental". He fills his suitcase with Monster Munch thus hoping to evade the worst expressions of local cuisine.Such as toad and balls. To no avail.Because Gervais and Merchant have,naturellement,booked him at the scruffiest of hotels(if he even gets to a hotel)and arranged for him to eat and experience things he probably never wanted to do ever in his life.To make things worse they send numerous text messages simply to annoy him.At one point Karl ponders the use of modern technology in the western world,how we mostly use it as entertainment. Behind him deaf Egyptian fast-food restaurant employees use their mobiles to make video calls. And Karl produces his own mobile to show for the camera what his friend Ricky G usually send him. I love it.Every annoying thing about traveling that you never dared to mention to your people-of-world friends will be aired here. Go watch!Pronto!
Seasons 1 & 2 = 5 stars but season 3 = 1 star
Pizzaowner29 April 2015
Warning: Spoilers
I'll try to make this both short and sweet. Season 1 finds us understanding Karl's childlike ability to reduce things to a simple equation....often very amusing to those accustomed to fancy talk-around euphemisms for things, refreshing. Second season sees more of the same with Karl occasionally simply doing his own thing and refusing to be manipulated by Ricky & Steve.....Steve who?....aside from being 7 feet high he seems to serve no other purpose than to yes-man Ricky...who IS genuinely funny. Sadly, the third season breaks the cardinal rule to success....if it ain't broke....don't fix it. Third 'season' finds the VERY unwelcome addition of Warwick....who is obviously Ricky's in-house spy and confidant. The ganging up on Karl becomes outrageous as they both get different room qualitys on the same ship...etc thus reducing the 'accidental' possibility of terrible accommodation to a deliberate act to hurt Karl.....not funny at all. We always knew it wasn't an accident but smacking Karl in the face with it is just hurtful.....not amusing. Luckily Karl says what's on his mind and including the classic..."You're not a proper actor" to Warwick as well as other more scathing but similar comments about Warwick getting attention because he is an oddity...not because he is a recognized actor.....TOO TRUE. Season 3 is a waste of time and should not really be included in the series as clearly Warwick was chosen deliberately to embarrass and compromise Karl....not needed in the first two so why then? All in all I would watch it again but NOT the section with Warwick
middle school humor
hans-978-50535515 February 2011
Ricky Gervais should never be allowed outside of adult supervision, or at least never allowed to speak without a script written by someone with a sense of humor. In this show he's like an elitist, brat kid that laughs incessantly right in the face of his "mate", Karl Pilkington.
Ricky apparently believes Karl is mentally inferior. If this is true, and Karl is mentally inferior to Ricky, then it is only by the slimmest of margins. Karl does in fact say some ignorant things, but I didn't see anything funny about it. It was only annoying to watch Ricky laugh in Karl's face and look down his nose at him.
Ricky literally leans his head back and looks down his nose at Karl and bursts into idiotic laughter after everything Karl says. Here's a better title: "Uneducated man goes abroad, leaves behind two pompous simpletons"
Ricky apparently believes Karl is mentally inferior. If this is true, and Karl is mentally inferior to Ricky, then it is only by the slimmest of margins. Karl does in fact say some ignorant things, but I didn't see anything funny about it. It was only annoying to watch Ricky laugh in Karl's face and look down his nose at him.
Ricky literally leans his head back and looks down his nose at Karl and bursts into idiotic laughter after everything Karl says. Here's a better title: "Uneducated man goes abroad, leaves behind two pompous simpletons"
Comedy gold!
adamonIMDb28 April 2016
An Idiot Abroad was the funniest thing to grace British TV for years. No script, no actors, just a normal bloke from Manchester taken completely out of his comfort zone and sent to explore the world against his will.
The results is hilarious, with Karl hating every minute of his travels and Ricky and Steve making it increasingly difficult for him as the series progresses.
Whilst it may fall under the category of travel documentary, it's Karl's dour personality and relentless whinging that makes it so entertaining. The actual travelling, visiting the Seven Wonders and participating in bucket list activities, become merely a sideshow.
There aren't many TV shows that make you laugh out loud like 'An Idiot Abroad', it's comedy gold.
The results is hilarious, with Karl hating every minute of his travels and Ricky and Steve making it increasingly difficult for him as the series progresses.
Whilst it may fall under the category of travel documentary, it's Karl's dour personality and relentless whinging that makes it so entertaining. The actual travelling, visiting the Seven Wonders and participating in bucket list activities, become merely a sideshow.
There aren't many TV shows that make you laugh out loud like 'An Idiot Abroad', it's comedy gold.
Mr Diklington doesn't disappoint!
mrzech24 September 2010
To all who know Karl Pilkington from the hilarious audio shows, you will not be disappointed. The man who doesn't know if he controls his brain, or his brain controls him, delivers exactly what you would expect - winging and whining about absolutely everything. And he does so in an amusing and a charming way that makes me squeeze his head really tight! From start to finish, Karl's comments are unique and honest - about the toilets in China, about eating fetuses and insects and about the Alright Wall of China. I can't wait to see the rest, but I have a feeling everything Gervais touches, turns to gold. Let's be honest, it's not Palin, but as Karl brilliantly said, "It's the parts from Palin they would cut out" :)
Heartwarming
helgivalentin12 May 2016
I'm probably not the only one who finds himself led to watch these series from watching the Ricky Gervais show/podcast. Karl Pilkington is as simple as i gets for the eye but the inside man is spectacular. Never ever could you predict the things he will say or do or think unless it's his signature line: "ye it's aw-right in'nit". Hahahah i mean the man is a brilliant comedy and for those of you that think he's and idiot you are wrong for some matter. The man is not educated but has a common sense level of a much more educated man and clearly has an intellectual potential. He's not the best at expressing which makes everything he says hilarious. I love that man i really do. I have grown to care for him and the magical trio so much, it think i really will miss him. BRILLIANT
Gervais and Merchant sends an idiot abroad.
richardhill7523 September 2010
Ricky Gervais and Steve Merchant offers their best friend, Karl Pilkington, the opportunity to visit the seven wonders of the world. Karl is not keen as he's never been a keen traveller and prefers staying in his comfort zone. So the documentary has an extremely 'fish out of water' feel about it. And Karl sees the world differently!!! He's the funniest man on the planet when he's confused, tired or struggling - and he constantly experiences all three from start to finish. Gervais and Merchant keeps in contact with him throughout his travels, ordering him to do challenges and hoping he'll have a breakdown. Karl is very politically incorrect but he gets away with it because he is an idiot.
Karl Pilkington – An Idiot Abroad Episode 7 'PERU'
anniecatz-18 November 2010
Karl Pilkington – An Idiot Abroad Episode 7 'PERU' Karl Pilkington's new series 'An Idiot Abroad' may just prove to be the tipping point for Karl as a solo artist. It is so refreshing to hear his thoughts without the cackling Ricky Gervais every 5 seconds laughing at every single comment Karl makes.
In this episode Karl treks through the Amazonian basin for over 1000 km to get to his 7th and final 'Wonder of the World' Machu Pichu. The entertainment comes from the trek itself as Karl experiences life in the jungle. As Ricky suggests in the preview show for this series 'There's nothing funnier than Karl sitting in a corner being poked by a stick." Well this really comes to life when Karl is in an Amazonian village watching a local being injected with the poison from a frog in order to get high before a hunt. At which point he reminisces about his 'Aunty Nora' and the amount of drugs she's on, stating "If it hasn't been tested on animals its been tested by me aunty Nora".
Other gems of wisdom spring from Karl's brain as he ponders the way tribes don't count to more than 3 because they never have to deal with mass. He then proceeds to introduce 'connect 4' to the villagers to no avail. Karl's perspective on Dolphins is intriguing too, he spots one in the Amazon and then states 'Dolphins annoy me right, cos everyone thinks they're dead intelligent and that, but I've never seen them do anything that's blown me away", "People call me a div and yet think dolphins are intelligent, it just baffles me." Whilst on the Inca trail Karl visits a doctor in order to check he is in good shape for the trek. The doctor gets out a 'bag o shite', as Karl puts it, and then produces a Guinea Pig! Karl comments that when you've got a doctor with cotton buds and bits of fluff and that in a bag, your probably better off getting a second opinion from the guinea pig. The doctor then proceeds to tell Karl that all the badness from him has been transferred to the guinea pig at which point Karl states "Well, that Guinea Pig is gonna have the major shits then".
Karl eventually makes it to see the 'wonder', from a distance (he's too lazy to actually go all the way), at Machu Pichu but this isn't the point of the series by a long way it's his commentary and bimbling that makes this show great. This is a must see for not only Karl Pilkington fans but any fan of travel log documentaries as Karl actually experiences the trip and doesn't just voice over as he points out that David Attenborough does.
As the series developed throughout September we were taken through a journey of our own as seen through the eyes of Karl. Ricky Gervais sums up the project by stating 'This is one of the funniest, most expensive practical jokes I have ever done", and he's not wrong.
Essential viewing all round.
In this episode Karl treks through the Amazonian basin for over 1000 km to get to his 7th and final 'Wonder of the World' Machu Pichu. The entertainment comes from the trek itself as Karl experiences life in the jungle. As Ricky suggests in the preview show for this series 'There's nothing funnier than Karl sitting in a corner being poked by a stick." Well this really comes to life when Karl is in an Amazonian village watching a local being injected with the poison from a frog in order to get high before a hunt. At which point he reminisces about his 'Aunty Nora' and the amount of drugs she's on, stating "If it hasn't been tested on animals its been tested by me aunty Nora".
Other gems of wisdom spring from Karl's brain as he ponders the way tribes don't count to more than 3 because they never have to deal with mass. He then proceeds to introduce 'connect 4' to the villagers to no avail. Karl's perspective on Dolphins is intriguing too, he spots one in the Amazon and then states 'Dolphins annoy me right, cos everyone thinks they're dead intelligent and that, but I've never seen them do anything that's blown me away", "People call me a div and yet think dolphins are intelligent, it just baffles me." Whilst on the Inca trail Karl visits a doctor in order to check he is in good shape for the trek. The doctor gets out a 'bag o shite', as Karl puts it, and then produces a Guinea Pig! Karl comments that when you've got a doctor with cotton buds and bits of fluff and that in a bag, your probably better off getting a second opinion from the guinea pig. The doctor then proceeds to tell Karl that all the badness from him has been transferred to the guinea pig at which point Karl states "Well, that Guinea Pig is gonna have the major shits then".
Karl eventually makes it to see the 'wonder', from a distance (he's too lazy to actually go all the way), at Machu Pichu but this isn't the point of the series by a long way it's his commentary and bimbling that makes this show great. This is a must see for not only Karl Pilkington fans but any fan of travel log documentaries as Karl actually experiences the trip and doesn't just voice over as he points out that David Attenborough does.
As the series developed throughout September we were taken through a journey of our own as seen through the eyes of Karl. Ricky Gervais sums up the project by stating 'This is one of the funniest, most expensive practical jokes I have ever done", and he's not wrong.
Essential viewing all round.
totally brilliant
maleg2728 March 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Some parts are a bit silly, the kidnapping in Israel, for example. but that is just a small disappointment to what otherwise is a hilariousness look at the wonders of the world. He has such a simple look at things, and points out the obvious, the only thing is, that you do not realize that it was obvious, until he says it. "Who would want to live in the carved buildings in Petna. The view is crap !! all you have to look at is my crappy hole in the mountain, It is much better to live in my hole in the mountain, opposite, then you have a great view !!!!". such simple, but funny logic, is hard to argue with. Every episode has a bucket full of such observations, that are better than the last one. All in all laugh out loud laughing television at its best
Amazingly funny
roc56921 March 2015
I'm a fan of Ricky Gervais, never knew much about Karl till "Derek" but that still wasn't much. Saw this on Netflix and figured I'd try it out. It is by far one of the funniest shows I have ever seen. As for documentaries this and Wildboyz are by far the funniest.
Karl is definitely an idiot. But being an idiot also makes him a genius. It is something you need to watch for yourself to really understand how funny and stupid, yet insightful Karl is.The stuff he says seems so idiotic but if you really think about it, it is true. He isn't afraid to say or do what he feels whether it offends someone or not.
Really give this show a try, you won't regret it.
Karl is definitely an idiot. But being an idiot also makes him a genius. It is something you need to watch for yourself to really understand how funny and stupid, yet insightful Karl is.The stuff he says seems so idiotic but if you really think about it, it is true. He isn't afraid to say or do what he feels whether it offends someone or not.
Really give this show a try, you won't regret it.
Gervais's Finest?
alan-bird29 March 2012
Warning: Spoilers
I would have given it 9 but for the second season.
This is the new benchmark (and maybe the first) for a comedy travel program. Sorry Bourdain - While your show is funny, I don't know if its intended (No Reservations and Travel with Bourdain; other shows worth watching). An Idiot Abroad is nothing but funny; no insight, no travel suggestions, just whingeing and hilarity.
Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant send Karl Pilkington on a journey around the world - in an attempt to broaden his pea-sized, bubble-wrapped mind. Pilko is the typically morose and simple Englishman tasked with touring the globe... camera crew in tow (with whom he interacts). Karl's journey twists and turns for the sadomasochistic pleasure of Merchant and Gervais. The two protagonists send Pilko on a host of bizarre adventures to help Karl understand the broad differences between our worlds' cultures... Hilarity ensues. It is firmly entrenched in must see TV territory.
Season two changes the scope slightly - giving Karl a 'bucket list' of things to do before you die, from which he must choose several adventures to be filmed for our pleasure (or maybe just for Gervais's pleasure - he spends an awful lot of this series cackling hysterically at the misfortune of Pilko...). I think the possibly the moment of the whole series unfolds at the first meeting in episode 1, with Gervais calming Pilko down "its not a list of things to do on your deathbed, Karl".
A few of the episodes glean some of the magic that flowed healthily through the first season, but i believe others are hit and miss. I find it hard to put my finger on why - the concept is very fresh and it has much real estate for hilarity... Maybe Gervais and Merchant are pushing too hard to writhe agony and misery out of Pilkington, when if they let the leash slack (first season), Pilkington creates and embellishes his own.
Regardless of my second season gripes, this show is BRILLIANT. Season 1 is a peach. Season 2 is still very funny, but feels forced. ENJOY with a deep, old Shiraz...
This is the new benchmark (and maybe the first) for a comedy travel program. Sorry Bourdain - While your show is funny, I don't know if its intended (No Reservations and Travel with Bourdain; other shows worth watching). An Idiot Abroad is nothing but funny; no insight, no travel suggestions, just whingeing and hilarity.
Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant send Karl Pilkington on a journey around the world - in an attempt to broaden his pea-sized, bubble-wrapped mind. Pilko is the typically morose and simple Englishman tasked with touring the globe... camera crew in tow (with whom he interacts). Karl's journey twists and turns for the sadomasochistic pleasure of Merchant and Gervais. The two protagonists send Pilko on a host of bizarre adventures to help Karl understand the broad differences between our worlds' cultures... Hilarity ensues. It is firmly entrenched in must see TV territory.
Season two changes the scope slightly - giving Karl a 'bucket list' of things to do before you die, from which he must choose several adventures to be filmed for our pleasure (or maybe just for Gervais's pleasure - he spends an awful lot of this series cackling hysterically at the misfortune of Pilko...). I think the possibly the moment of the whole series unfolds at the first meeting in episode 1, with Gervais calming Pilko down "its not a list of things to do on your deathbed, Karl".
A few of the episodes glean some of the magic that flowed healthily through the first season, but i believe others are hit and miss. I find it hard to put my finger on why - the concept is very fresh and it has much real estate for hilarity... Maybe Gervais and Merchant are pushing too hard to writhe agony and misery out of Pilkington, when if they let the leash slack (first season), Pilkington creates and embellishes his own.
Regardless of my second season gripes, this show is BRILLIANT. Season 1 is a peach. Season 2 is still very funny, but feels forced. ENJOY with a deep, old Shiraz...
Fairly fun travel show
Pro Jury19 February 2011
Warning: Spoilers
This does contain spoilers.
First, Karl the traveler does go to far away exotic places. And once he is there, he sees a lot of small local traditions rather than only the mainstream vacation resort type entertainment.
Second, Karl often has some clever insights. His comments are funny, specially when they are so bluntly practical. Some of his discoveries are actually helpful to a potential traveler... best bring toilet paper, or sometimes, best bring toilet (and then he teaches how to build your own packable low-cost toilet).
It is easy to watch Karl travel around. He keeps the show interesting. I notice that Karl never flirts with local girls just as Michael Palin never does during his many travel shows. It must be a British trait.
But third and finally, the show is not perfect. The two office people who set up the travel at the start of each episode laugh at their own ideas way, way too much. Whenever they call Karl in the middle of his travels, all of the fun stops. Also, the "bumbers" they present at each commercial break "warn" viewers to expect nudity. However, all of the nudity is blurred away in every episode. There is NOTHING naughty in AN IDIOT ABROAD. I say, edit out the office people and have more time for traveling with Karl.
First, Karl the traveler does go to far away exotic places. And once he is there, he sees a lot of small local traditions rather than only the mainstream vacation resort type entertainment.
Second, Karl often has some clever insights. His comments are funny, specially when they are so bluntly practical. Some of his discoveries are actually helpful to a potential traveler... best bring toilet paper, or sometimes, best bring toilet (and then he teaches how to build your own packable low-cost toilet).
It is easy to watch Karl travel around. He keeps the show interesting. I notice that Karl never flirts with local girls just as Michael Palin never does during his many travel shows. It must be a British trait.
But third and finally, the show is not perfect. The two office people who set up the travel at the start of each episode laugh at their own ideas way, way too much. Whenever they call Karl in the middle of his travels, all of the fun stops. Also, the "bumbers" they present at each commercial break "warn" viewers to expect nudity. However, all of the nudity is blurred away in every episode. There is NOTHING naughty in AN IDIOT ABROAD. I say, edit out the office people and have more time for traveling with Karl.
Needed a companion throughout
spuzer5514 March 2015
The first season is entertaining enough to merit a viewing. You sympathise with Karl when you see the way Merchant and Gervais belittle him and parade him for their own amusement, and overlook some of the more annoying aspects of his personality. While Karl has a lot to say and is sometimes amusing and funny, he's definitely no adventurer.
However, the more you watch the show and the more you get to spend time with him, the less and less sympathetic Karl becomes. In Season 2, his antics and comments become more annoying than anything else, and you realise why Gervais and Merchant act the way they do. Not only does the man whine about almost every single event in the entirety of human history, he's also pushy and completely certain of his own opinion all the time, attempting to rationalise his transparent insecurities and excuses. Most repulsive of all is the way he often treats the locals, outwardly channeling his personal frustrations and worldly ignorance at them, often mocking, confronting or offending his hosts. At this point, somewhere in the second season, you realise that Karl's opinionated perspective usually just detracts from his present surroundings and the possible entertainment value of the show.
This is why Season 3 (three episodes, really) functions so well. Warwick Davis joins Karl on his adventures, providing his own critique and a much needed balance to Karl's ego. As always, Karl becomes hostile when things don't proceed the way he likes, but Warwick's presence and their ensuing confrontations and disagreements become the most entertaining part of the show. Warwick is the balancing Yang that Karl's Ying so desperately needed, substantially raising the show's entertainment and travel elements. Wish there was more of this.
Recommended: Seasons 1 and 3. There are many interesting and unique places on show in Season 2, but none of them are enhanced by Karl's presence or perspective.
However, the more you watch the show and the more you get to spend time with him, the less and less sympathetic Karl becomes. In Season 2, his antics and comments become more annoying than anything else, and you realise why Gervais and Merchant act the way they do. Not only does the man whine about almost every single event in the entirety of human history, he's also pushy and completely certain of his own opinion all the time, attempting to rationalise his transparent insecurities and excuses. Most repulsive of all is the way he often treats the locals, outwardly channeling his personal frustrations and worldly ignorance at them, often mocking, confronting or offending his hosts. At this point, somewhere in the second season, you realise that Karl's opinionated perspective usually just detracts from his present surroundings and the possible entertainment value of the show.
This is why Season 3 (three episodes, really) functions so well. Warwick Davis joins Karl on his adventures, providing his own critique and a much needed balance to Karl's ego. As always, Karl becomes hostile when things don't proceed the way he likes, but Warwick's presence and their ensuing confrontations and disagreements become the most entertaining part of the show. Warwick is the balancing Yang that Karl's Ying so desperately needed, substantially raising the show's entertainment and travel elements. Wish there was more of this.
Recommended: Seasons 1 and 3. There are many interesting and unique places on show in Season 2, but none of them are enhanced by Karl's presence or perspective.
Makes Wonderful people look like Sh*t
sketchboy12310 April 2014
So, I've watched a season of An Idiot Abroad and I've gone from isn't this funny to this is actually offensive. Carl goes to Israel and they arranged to have him kidnapped by pretend terrorists that are actually actors. What's the point of that? Why associate Israel with kidnapping? If you are trying to get this idiot's reaction to a culture, then why involve stereotypical scenarios? When he was in Bejing they sent him to the strangest back alleys when there are great night clubs, restaurants and museums. I now think this show has a hidden agenda to do exactly the opposite of their stated goal. They say they are sending this close-minded person abroad for a good laugh, but the producers are the close minded ones, sending Carl to the sh*tiest places and representing these bad examples as the norm for foreign places.
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