Radio Times

Review by:

Claire Webb

In 2011 Chris O’Dowd became Hollywood’s unlikeliest heart-throb after a star turn in the comedy Bridesmaids. Since then he’s been rubbing shoulders with the likes of Brad Pitt and Clint Eastwood, and could be forgiven for glossing over his unglamorous beginnings. Instead he’s co-written a comedy about them.

Delightfully old-fashioned without tipping over into nostalgia, and full of madcap characters, Moone Boy is based on the actor’s childhood in a sleepy Irish town in County Roscommon. O’Dowd, whose former claim to fame was cult sitcom The IT Crowd, plays the imaginary friend of 12-year-old Martin Moone (the adorable David Rawle). Egged on by the questionable advice of his invisible pal, poor Martin spends his days devising ingenious but ill-fated plans to thwart the school bullies and his three moody teenage sisters.

About this programme

1/6. Chris O'Dowd's semi-autobiographical comedy depicting his childhood in Ireland, following the adventures of a 12-year-old who survives life with his chaotic family by conjuring up an imaginary friend. In the opening episode, Martin is given a new bike for his birthday - but bullies soon get their hands on it. Chris stars, with David Rawle, Deirdre O'Kane and Peter McDonald.

Cast and crew

Cast

Sean Murphy

Chris O'Dowd

Martin Moone

David Rawle

Debra Moone

Deirdre O'Kane

Liam Moone

Peter McDonald

Fidelma Moone

Clare Monnelly

Trisha Moone

Aoife Duffin

Sinead Moone

Sarah White

Crew

Writer

Chris O'Dowd

Writer

Nick Vincent Murphy

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