Tofu is aired online and features the cast of Banana and Cucumber alongside the British public discussing their sex lives and confessions. However, Banana and Cucumber are an interlinked drama series, documenting the lives of the LGBT community in Manchester.
The titles of the three shows give a cheeky hint about what to expect in the series as they refer to three stages of the male erection, and they certainly don’t fail to disappoint. Within the first few minutes of the first episode of Banana, the lead character Dean (Fisayo Akinade) strips off in front of work colleagues, revealing the chastity belt he had put on one night for a laugh. It is safe to say that nudity, sex and relationships are common themes throughout Banana. However one of the most surprising things about the series so far is how heartfelt, relatable and downright hilarious it is. Although the programme primarily focusses around the lives of the LGBT community, the issues covered will feel familiar to many. With topics ranging from teenage angst in the family and rent struggles to awkward sex with strangers. This is all helped along with nothing short of excellent acting throughout. Akinade captures the fun loving and witty protagonist’s personality brilliantly and had me glued to the TV from start to finish.
Although the interlinked nature of the series helps the audience understand different aspects of the characters’ personality and gives the story more depth, this only works if they are watched all together. Viewers may find it hard to get to grips with the story in Banana if it isn’t watched in conjunction with the other series.
The third episode in the eight part drama airs next Thursday at 10pm on Channel 4 and I would certainly recommend it. For those who have not yet tuned in, it’s not too late to catch up with this heartfelt and entertaining drama which is definitely worth a watch.