The only thing to say after seeing the Fackham Hall spoof movie is Bravo! Exactly what we need now.
Entering the splendid English country manor Fackham Hall, we meet Lord (Damian Lewis) and Lady Davenport (Katherin Waterston) and their daughters Rose (Thomassin McKenzie) and Poppy (Emma Laird). A smattering of other relatives feature including Great Aunt Bonaparte (Sue Johnston). As it’s 1931, we also find an army of servants managed by Cyril (Tim McMullin) and Mrs McAllister (Anna Maxwell Martin). The household is a buzz as Poppy is to be wed.
Meanwhile miles away orphan Eric Noone (Ben Radcliffe) is plying his trade as a pickpocket, when he’s tasked with delivering a letter to Lord Davenport. When he arrives at the household he’s mistaken for a new hall boy and so begins his new life.
When Poppy decides to run away on her wedding day the family insists Rose marries well to save the family home. The only problem is she’s fallen for another … the forbidden servant Eric Noone.
Another small problem is the death of Lord Davenport, was it an accident or murder? If murder, all eyes turn to Eric. Enter Inspector Watt (Tom Goodmn-Hill).
As the audience giggled knowingly at each other on the way out I pondered:
- The corny dad jokes begin from the moment the movie starts and carry on relentlessly until the credits;
- We did ponder whether some generations will get or appreciate some of the throwback puns;
- Lewis is wonderful as the Lord as is Maxwell Martin as the household head, however for me it was Johnston as the Great Aunt who stole the show. Both actors showing us their comedy chops, which they aren’t as well-known for;
- Jimmy Carr gives off Rowan Atkins vibes as the vicar;
- Inspector Watt gives us an echo to “Who’s on First?”;
- With other movies like The Naked Gun running through its veins, this is the perfect spoof for now. Leslie Nielsen would be proud
- Here’s hoping we get another serve.
For more information go to Luna Cinemas
-
overall
