Roland The Rat And Kevin

Roland the Rat and Kevin: An Unlikely Friendship and a Deeper Look into the Comedy of The Comic Strip Presents

Roland Rat and Kevin are arguably two of the most memorable, and bizarre, characters to ever grace British television. Their unlikely friendship, fueled by an abrasive yet strangely endearing dynamic, became a cornerstone of the Channel 4 series The Comic Strip Presents. This article will delve into the comedic genius behind their creation, exploring their individual personalities, their relationship, the cultural impact of their appearances, and the lasting legacy they've left on British comedy. We'll examine the social commentary subtly woven into their antics and unpack the reasons behind their enduring appeal.

The Characters: A Study in Contrasts

Roland Rat, a seemingly innocuous children's television presenter, was a masterclass in subversive comedy. Played by the brilliant comedian and writer, Nigel Planer, Roland's saccharine exterior concealed a deeply cynical and manipulative personality. His catchphrases, like "Ooh, Matron!" and his penchant for double entendres aimed squarely at adult audiences, transformed the seemingly innocent children's show format into a comedic battleground. Roland wasn't just a bad presenter; he was a satire of the overly enthusiastic, slightly unhinged, and self-serving television personality – a caricature that resonated deeply with viewers who recognized the types he parodied.

Kevin, Roland's long-suffering, perpetually exasperated sidekick, was the perfect foil to Roland's manic energy. Played by Rik Mayall, Kevin was the voice of reason, constantly battling to maintain control amidst Roland's chaos. He represented the ordinary person forced to navigate the absurdity of life, often finding himself the victim of Roland's schemes and manipulations. Mayall's portrayal of Kevin was a masterpiece of physical comedy and exasperated deadpan, perfectly capturing the frustration of someone consistently outmatched by a far more chaotic personality.

The Dynamic Duo: A Comedy of Errors

The magic of Roland and Kevin lay in their contrasting personalities and their inherently dysfunctional relationship. Their sketches weren't merely about jokes; they were about the power dynamic between a manipulative character and his unwilling accomplice. Roland's attempts to dominate the narrative and Kevin's desperate attempts to retain some semblance of order created a comedic tension that was both hilarious and strangely relatable.

Their sketches frequently involved elaborate schemes, often failing spectacularly, resulting in slapstick humor and witty dialogue. Roland’s desire for fame and fortune often propelled these plots, while Kevin was left to clean up the mess. This created a pattern of comedic escalation that kept the audience engaged.

• The Humour of Power Dynamics: Roland's attempts to control the narrative, often through manipulation and coercion, perfectly highlighted the absurdities of power plays. Kevin's quiet resistance, and his occasional rebellious outbursts, added a layer of relatable frustration to the comedy.
• Slapstick and Visual Gags: The sketches were heavily reliant on physical comedy, with Roland often engaging in slapstick routines and Kevin frequently reacting with exaggerated expressions of disbelief and exasperation. These visual elements amplified the humour, creating memorable scenes that relied less on dialogue and more on physical performance.
• Verbal Wit and Double Entendres: The writing was clever, utilizing wordplay, double entendres, and satirical references that appealed to a more adult audience. This layered approach meant that jokes could be appreciated on multiple levels, adding depth and longevity to the comedy.

Social Commentary: Beyond the Laughs

While primarily comedic, Roland Rat and Kevin's sketches subtly incorporated social commentary. They parodied the excesses of television, the ambition of fame-seekers, and the often-absurd nature of the media landscape.

• Satire of Television: Roland's character was a clear satire of the shallowness and often unethical practices within the television industry. His willingness to exploit anyone and anything for ratings satirized the often cutthroat nature of the business.
• Critique of Ambition: Roland’s relentless pursuit of fame and fortune, regardless of the consequences, offered a critique of unchecked ambition and the moral compromises often made in its pursuit. Kevin’s reactions served as a reminder of the human cost of such ambition.
• A Reflection of Society: The sketches reflected aspects of British society, particularly the frustrations of dealing with bureaucracy, the absurdity of certain social situations, and the clash between ambition and reality.

Cultural Impact and Lasting Legacy

Roland Rat and Kevin's impact on British comedy is undeniable. Their popularity extended beyond their initial appearances in The Comic Strip Presents, resulting in merchandise, spin-off shows, and ongoing cultural references.

• Impact on Comedy: Their blend of surreal humor, physical comedy, and social satire influenced many subsequent comedians and television programs. Their brand of absurdist comedy paved the way for many of the comedic styles that dominated British television in later years.
• Cultural References: The characters and their catchphrases remain embedded in British popular culture, frequently referenced in other television shows, films, and even everyday conversation. Their iconic status is a testament to their lasting impact.
• The Enduring Appeal: The enduring appeal of Roland and Kevin lies in their relatable nature. Despite their exaggerated personas, the underlying dynamic of a manipulative character and his long-suffering sidekick is something many can connect with on a personal level. Their comedic genius lies in making us laugh at the absurdities of life while simultaneously recognizing the frustrating realities of human interaction.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What was the relationship between Roland Rat and Kevin? Roland and Kevin shared a chaotic, deeply dysfunctional relationship. Roland, the manipulative and self-serving children’s TV presenter, frequently exploited Kevin, who served as his long-suffering, exasperated sidekick. Their relationship perfectly highlighted the comedic tensions of power imbalance and the absurdity of trying to maintain order amidst chaos.
• Who played Roland Rat and Kevin? Nigel Planer played Roland Rat, while Rik Mayall played Kevin. Both actors were pivotal to the success of the characters, bringing their own unique comedic talents to their respective roles.
• Why were Roland Rat and Kevin so popular? Their popularity stemmed from their comedic brilliance, the subversive nature of their humor, and the relatable aspects of their dysfunctional relationship. Their blend of slapstick, witty dialogue, and subtle social commentary resonated with a wide audience.
• What kind of social commentary did they offer? Roland and Kevin subtly criticized the television industry, unchecked ambition, and certain aspects of British society. Their sketches served as satirical commentary on power dynamics, the pursuit of fame, and the absurdities of daily life.
• Did Roland Rat and Kevin have any lasting impact? Absolutely. Their unique brand of humor, and the characters themselves, have become iconic, leaving a lasting mark on British comedy. Their impact can be seen in the work of many comedians and television shows who followed.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Laughter and Subversion

Roland Rat and Kevin weren't just comedic characters; they were social commentary wrapped in slapstick and delivered with impeccable timing. Their enduring legacy isn't solely based on their humor, though that was certainly a major factor. It's also about their ability to capture the absurdities of human nature, the frustrations of dealing with manipulative individuals, and the enduring comedic power of a perfectly crafted dysfunctional relationship. Their impact continues to resonate today, reminding us of the power of subversive comedy and the enduring appeal of well-crafted, genuinely funny characters. The unlikely friendship of a rat and a perpetually exasperated human remains one of the most enduringly comical creations in British television history, a testament to the genius of Planer, Mayall, and the entire creative team behind The Comic Strip Presents. Their legacy isn't just a string of memorable catchphrases and hilarious sketches; it's a unique contribution to the landscape of British comedy that continues to inspire and entertain generations.