Series 1 of Smoggie Queens was brilliant: surreal, hilarious and touching. Focusing on a queer family in Middlesbrough, creator Phil Dunning, who also plays main character Dickie, crafted a loveable, silly bunch of misfits with recognisable quirks and – most importantly -a strong working -class sensibility.
Series 1 set up the rivalry between Dickie and “baby gay” Stewart, plus anyone who crosses him, and was centred around the home and work environments.
Series 2 however, has gone even further, in terms of surreal visuals and locations. The supporting cast are excellent, particularly Mark Benton as the Divine-esque Mam. It’s almost like a queer ‘Mighty Boosh’ at times. There’s an ‘Alice In Wonderland’ trip in Carpetworld; a ‘Wizard Of Oz’ party, and a food fight in a (not entirely) Italian restaurant. It’s as inspired as it’s ridiculous and I absolutely love it. Plus, where else could you see Michelle Visage wearing beige? All hail the ‘Boro queens.
Available to watch on BBC iPlayer
Hit The North 