Critic Reviews

It's hilarious, and sad, and ironic, and rich.

The dramedy's first season is alternately nuanced and maudlin, wise and sentimental. You can pick-pick-pick at it--too many metaphors, easy foils, and musical montages--but the whole is greater than the parts, and builds to a reflective, stirring conclusion that is mostly earned.

Even if his acting feels like a sentimental stunt, Gervais wrote and directed the series with gentle skill. [16 Sep 2013, p.41]

Gervais has written, produced and directed a thoughtful and thought-provoking dramedy that celebrates everyday heroes and the power of kindness while attacking materialism and the way society often forgets people "just because they're old and poor and weak."

It may be the nicest show you'll ever see.

The second season mostly upholds the first's tricky precedent, but the absence of regular Gervais associate Karl Pilkington means the yuks are a bit less hearty.

In a way, Gervais himself is the weakest link in what’s otherwise a thoughtful, sometimes-moving seven-episode run.

Derek is a fascinating, well-meaning mess, without being a particularly offensive one.

Derek is an honest and often charming endeavor.

There's an appeal to the gentle spirit of Derek but it would have a stronger pull if the plotting was less dull.