Red Dwarf: Smeg Ups (1994)

Red Dwarf: Smeg Ups Poster

Kryten presents a collection of bloopers from series 4 to 6 of Red Dwarf.

Introduction
"Red Dwarf: Smeg Ups" is a special spinoff from the British sitcom "Red Dwarf" that aired in 1994. It's an hour-long collection of outtakes, bloopers, and errors from the recording of the famous sci-fi comedy series, giving fans a funny and intriguing appearance behind the scenes. Directed by Grant Naylor and Ed Bye, "Red Dwarf: Smeg Ups" assembles the lighter moments throughout the making of the series, revealing not only the immense enjoyable however also the hard work that entered into creating "Red Dwarf".

The Concept
Unlike a standard motion picture or television episode, "Red Dwarf: Smeg Ups" does not have a cohesive narrative. Instead, it's consisted of a series of 'smeg-ups' or mistakes made during the recording of the program. These consist of fluffed lines, technical breakdowns, and on-set tricks that reveal a different side of the stars and the production process. The name "Smeg Ups" is stemmed from the comedy's popular fictional curse-word, 'smeg'.

Host and Characters
"Red Dwarf: Smeg Ups" is hosted by Kryten (Robert Llewellyn), a mechanoid from the original series. He humorously and sardonically presents the outtakes and bloopers devoted by the primary cast, including Dave Lister (Craig Charles), Arnold Rimmer (Chris Barrie), Cat (Danny John-Jules) and Holly (Norman Lovett/Hattie Hayridge). The natural friendship and comedic timing of the actors, which are trademark features of the series, are highlighted in this version too.

Functions
The compilation consists of scenes from the first six series of Red Dwarf. The 'smeg ups' are categorized according to the nature of the bloopers, which vary from forgotten lines and unexpected prop damage to unplanned laughs and unexpected falls. Some unforgettable sections include when Rimmer, implied to be a hologram who can't touch anything, accidentally closes a door, or when the Cat character struggles to pronounce technical jargon.

Audience Reception
"Red Dwarf: Smeg Ups" was popular by the show's dedicated fanbase. It offers an unique glimpse of the off-camera personalities of the actors and the convivial environment on the set, adding depth to the beloved characters. The collection was noteworthy for its self-deprecating humor, with the actors teasing their mistakes and each other. The compilation was so popular that it resulted in a sequel called "Red Dwarf: Smeg Outs" with much more outtakes.

Conclusion
Overall, "Red Dwarf: Smeg Ups" is a charming, engaging, and amusing journey. It showcases the camaraderie, friendships, and effort behind the scenes of "Red Dwarf", making it a must-watch for fans of the sitcom. From scenes that will have you chuckling out loud to those that reveal the real rapport and chemistry amongst the cast, it takes the viewers on a pleasurable trip, deepening their appreciation for the amazing sci-fi funny.

Top Cast

  • Chris Barrie (small)
    Chris Barrie
    Rimmer
  • Craig Charles (small)
    Craig Charles
    Lister
  • Danny John-Jules (small)
    Danny John-Jules
    Cat
  • Robert Llewellyn (small)
    Robert Llewellyn
    Kryten
  • Hattie Hayridge (small)
    Hattie Hayridge
    Holly
  • Jenny Agutter (small)
    Jenny Agutter
    Professor Mamet
  • Jennifer Calvert (small)
    Jennifer Calvert
    Loretta
  • Simon Paisley Day (small)
    Simon Paisley Day
    Commander Randy Navarro
  • Steve Devereaux
    Jimmy
  • Simon Gaffney
    Young Rimmer
  • Kalli Greenwood
    Mrs. Rimmer