Yes, Prime Minister (TV Series) The Ministerial Broadcast (1986) User Reviews

It makes you look like someone who wants to look sincere

[snoozejonc · 8/10 · 20 August 2021]

Hacker prepares for his first television address to the nation.

I enjoyed this episode for the usual humorous 'Yes, Prime Minister' insight into the workings of government, plus a number of memorable exchanges between characters.

It opens well with Hacker's jet lag and general tiredness being very amusing along with the way Sir Humphrey and Bernard react to it.

I love the scenes of Hacker preparing to meet the cameras. All the advice from the director about what different types of imagery presents to the public is both funny and quite informative. You can just imagine the vanity and self-consciousness of real life politicians when it comes to public appearances. I also imagine there are gullible people who actually believe what politicians say and lap it all up due to the numerous psychological tactics employed.

My favourite part is the lesson Humphrey gives Hacker on how public surveys can be manipulated to get whatever the opinion the government wants. So simple, plausible and funny at the same time.

All the cast are excellent as always.

Guest starring Brian Gwaspari

[safenoe · 9/10 · 27 December 2023]

The Ministerial Broadcast guest stars Brian Gwaspari, who plays David, the Employment Secretary, a senior cabinet minister. Anyway, I checked on imdb and he had numerous appearances in many TV series. Here Jim learns about public appearances which I think is relevant now.

Jonathan Lynn co-created and co-wrote Yes, Minister with Antony Jay. Interestingly, Antony Jay received a knighthood to become Sir Antony Jay but to this day Jonathan Lynn hasn't. Yet Jonathan Lynn went on to direct Clue, Nuns on the Run, My Cousin Vinny, and The Whole Nine Yards so it's strange init that Jonathan has been overlooked for a knighthood.