I’m a huge fan of the Aardman Animation children’s TV series “Shaun the Sheep”. Although it’s nominally a children’s programme there is a lot in it for adults as well. I particularly like the references to things that not many children would be aware of. Here are a few that I’ve spotted. I’ll add more when I find them.
All images ©Aardman / BBC / WDR.
“Supersize Timmy” (S2, E09)
This episode borrows a lot from “King Kong”.
“Let’s Spray” (S3, E05)
Timmy’s graffiti looks like a “Banksy” to me. (Note – this episode is not broadcast in the UK as it might encourage vandalism. The still is from German TV.)
“Hard To Swallow” (S3, E08)
A birdwatcher points his binoculars at a pair of crows. One of them turns and grins in a way that reminds me of Eric Morecambe.
“Missing Piece” (S4, E14)
The jigsaw is a bit like Constable’s “The Hay Wain”. Or maybe not. Please yourselves.
“Turf Wars” (S5, E11)
This episode climaxes with a lovely homage to Eisenstein’s “Battleship Potemkin”.
“Happy Farmers’ Day” (S5, E16)
The sheep cook a meal for the farmer, but various mishaps delay the dessert. Bitzer provides some entertainment, perhaps inspired by Manuel and Polly in “Fawlty Towers”.
