Henry Winkler press clippings - British Comedy Guide (original) (raw)
Press clippings
The series adapted from children's books by Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver returns for a second season. Based on Winkler's own experiences growing up with dyslexia, but with events transposed from the US to Yorkshire, it also stars the man who was Fonzie as teacher Mr Rock, an understanding counterpoint to Ms Adolf (Felicity Montagu). In today's opener, McKelty ruins Hank's school photograph by spraying him with pop. Hank (Nick James) is determined to get himself cleaned up and back in front of the camera.
Jonathan Wright, The Guardian, 13th August 2015
Unfailingly charming comedy based on the semi-autobiographical books by Henry Winkler, which tell the story of a dyslexic schoolboy who's always in trouble. In part two, Hank devises an unorthodox way on to the softball team, and there's a big argument about lucky socks. The adult cast and the children all have a chance to shine here, and that helps to make it a show that families can enjoy together.
Daily Mail, 1st February 2014
Adapted from the books by Lin Oliver and Henry Winkler, based upon Winkler's own experience of growing up with dyslexia, Hank Zipzer is a fast-paced, frantic and very funny comedy, with serious undertones, from the CBBC channel.
Several aspects of episode one did jar, however. Firstly, our schoolboy anti-hero's extremely American-sounding name is never explained. Secondly, I'd like to think that modern schools are sufficiently enlightened around dyslexia not to punish a student with the condition by making him read his essay aloud in assembly. Thirdly, the quality of the acting among the young cast covers a wide spectrum, and that's putting it charitably.
Minor quibbles apart, Hank Zipzer is great fun, cleverly constructed and eminently likeable. It also boasts an excellent adult cast, including Felicity Montagu as Hank's bad-tempered, sword-wielding teacher Miss Adolf, and Winkler himself oozes charm as a rock'n'roll music teacher, appropriately named Mr Rock.