Lunatics

Mockumentary series exploring eccentric characters' lives

Watch on Netflix
About Lunatics

Released: 2019

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1 Season

Cast
Chris Lilley

About Lunatics

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About

Lunatics is a TV show that premiered in 2019. It falls under the genre of mockumentaries, which is a type of comedic television or film production that presents fictitious or exaggerated accounts of events in a documentary-style format.

Lunatics follows the lives of several eccentric and outlandish characters, each portrayed by the creator of the show, Australian comedian Chris Lilley. The characters include Jana Melhoopen-Jonks, a South African pet psychic; Quentin Cook, an obnoxious real estate mogul; Keith Dick, an adult entertainer turned potato farmer; Gavin McGregor, a fashion retailer with a passion for handbags; Becky Douglas, a young girl aspiring to be a professional YouTuber; and Joyce Jeffries, a former porn star turned hoarder.

The show is known for its satire, dark humor, and exaggerated characterizations, with Lilley playing multiple roles and creating a diverse cast of peculiar individuals. Each character has their own distinctive quirks and storylines, making for a unique and entertaining viewing experience.

Making / Production

Lunatics was created and produced by Chris Lilley, who is best known for his previous mockumentary series, such as Summer Heights High and Ja'mie: Private School Girl. The show was co-produced by Laura Waters and Debbie Lee, with Lilley serving as writer, director, and lead actor.

The production of Lunatics involved extensive improvisation and collaboration between Lilley and the rest of the cast. The show was filmed in various locations in Australia, as well as in South Africa and the United States.

Actors

  • Chris Lilley as Jana Melhoopen-Jonks, Quentin Cook, Keith Dick, Gavin McGregor, Becky Douglas, and Joyce Jeffries.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • Lunatics marked Chris Lilley's return to television following a four-year hiatus.
  • The show received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for Lilley's performances but criticism for the overall execution of the concept.
  • Some of the characters in the show were inspired by real people that Lilley encountered throughout his life.
  • Lunatics incorporates elements of documentary filmmaking, with each character having their own separate storylines that eventually intersect.

Awards

No major awards have been won by Lunatics as of now.

Quotes

  • "I need to know what your dog is thinking right now." - Jana Melhoopen-Jonks
  • "I'm the number one real estate guru in Australia. Everyone knows that." - Quentin Cook
  • "Potatoes are my life now. They're the ultimate pleasure." - Keith Dick
  • "Handbags make me feel alive." - Gavin McGregor
  • "This is my vlog! It's all about me!" - Becky Douglas
  • "I've got memories in this stuff. It's valuable." - Joyce Jeffries

Music / Soundtrack

Lunatics does not have a dedicated soundtrack, as it primarily focuses on the comedic dialogue and character interactions. However, the show incorporates various songs and background music to enhance the storytelling.