Psychoville

1. Introduction to Psychoville
Psychoville is a British dark comedy television series.
Created by Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton, known for their work on "The
League of Gentlemen".
The series blends elements of horror, thriller, and comedy.
2. Overview and Themes
Genre: Dark comedy, horror, psychological thriller.
Tone: The show is known for its dark humor, eerie atmosphere, and twisted
storylines.
3. Plot Summary
The story revolves around five seemingly unrelated characters who receive
mysterious letters stating, "I know what you did."
As the plot unfolds, the characters� dark secrets and connections to each other are
revealed.
The series explores themes of guilt, revenge, and the past catching up with the
present.
4. Main Characters
Mr. Jelly (Reece Shearsmith): A bitter, one-handed children's entertainer.
David Sowerbutts (Steve Pemberton): A socially awkward man obsessed with serial
killers, living with his overprotective mother.
Maureen Sowerbutts (Reece Shearsmith): David�s controlling and manipulative mother.
Oscar Lomax (Steve Pemberton): A blind millionaire with a strange collection.
Joy Aston (Dawn French): A midwife who treats a doll as her own child.
Robert Greenspan (Jason Tompkins): A telekinetic dwarf actor.
5. Structure and Episodes
The series consists of two seasons and a Halloween special.
Season 1: Introduces the main characters and their mysterious connections.
Season 2: Continues the story with more twists and deeper explorations of the
characters' pasts.
Halloween Special: Provides additional backstory and connects the two seasons.
6. Key Features
Interconnected Storylines: Initially separate, the characters� stories gradually
intertwine.
Unique Characters: Each character has distinct quirks and dark secrets.
Twists and Turns: The plot is known for its unexpected twists and reveals.
Dark Humor: The show balances horror elements with sharp, dark comedy.
7. Production and Reception
Creators: Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton, who also star in multiple roles.
Production Company: BBC.
Reception: Generally positive reviews for its originality, writing, and
performances. Praised for its blend of horror and comedy.
8. Influences and Inspirations
Horror and Thriller Genres: Influences from classic horror films and psychological
thrillers.
The League of Gentlemen: Shares a similar tone and style with this previous work by
Shearsmith and Pemberton.
British Dark Comedy: Part of the tradition of British dark humor, combining macabre
elements with comedy.
9. Cultural Impact
Cult Following: Developed a dedicated fan base.
Critical Acclaim: Noted for its innovative storytelling and unique blend of genres.
Legacy: Influenced later works in the dark comedy and horror-comedy genres.
10. Themes for Discussion
The Role of Guilt and Redemption: How the characters deal with their past actions.
Isolation and Connection: The characters� initial isolation versus their eventual
interconnectedness.
Comedy in Darkness: How humor is used to explore and cope with dark and disturbing
themes.