Hilarity Aboard the Blackpool Express: A Review of the Side-Splitting Comedy Masterpiece

Review: Murder on the Blackpool Express

A Rare Gem on BBC

When was the last time you saw a light-hearted comedy film on the BBC? In an era dominated by heavy dramas, crime series, and political documentaries, the arrival of Murder on the Blackpool Express on BBC Two was a pleasant and refreshing surprise. The film, which seamlessly fuses the premise of Channel 4’s Coach Trip, the mysteries of Agatha Christie, and the comedic prowess of Johnny Vegas, managed to captivate audiences with its unique blend of humor and whodunit intrigue.

A Hilarious Synopsis

Murder on the Blackpool Express revolves around a group of mismatched fans who embark on Draper’s Literary Tours, led by the charismatic coach driver, played by Johnny Vegas. The eccentric cast of characters includes an actorly murder mystery author, played by Griff Rhys Jones, a suave charmer portrayed by Nigel Havers, a wheelchair-bound harridan portrayed by Nina Wadia, and one half of a Thelma and Louise-style duo played by Una Stubbs.

A Classic Whodunit with a Twist

As the tour progresses, passengers begin to meet their demise in imaginative ways, mirroring the murder plots of Van Der Clane’s novels. With each murder, the tension rises, and the suspense deepens. The killer, concealed by one of Draper’s complimentary pac-a-macs, lurks in the shadows, leaving everyone guessing and adding an extra layer of complexity to the mystery.

Chemistry and Comedy

The chemistry between Sian Gibson’s character, Gemma, the peppy host of the tour, and Johnny Vegas’s coach driver, brought back memories of Gibson’s previous comedy pairing with Peter Kay in Car Share. Yet, Vegas’s portrayal in Murder on the Blackpool Express showcased a more heartfelt and less frenzied version of his comedic style, enhancing the film’s overall charm.

The Power of Humor

Murder on the Blackpool Express owes much of its success to the brilliant script penned by Jason Cook. Cook, known for his work on Miranda, delivers a very British, very Northern brand of humor that is both endearing and relatable. The script is packed with witty one-liners that will leave audiences chuckling long after the film ends. The standout performances come from Una Stubbs, Sheila Reid, and Susie Blake, who effortlessly deliver the film’s best lines.

An Instant Hit

While the story may feel familiar to some viewers, it is important to note that Murder on the Blackpool Express was initially commissioned by Gold and aired in 2017, becoming the network’s highest-rated show of all time. Its success has paved the way for two sequels, Death on the Tyne and Dial M for Middlesbrough, which are set to premiere on BBC Two in the following weeks.

A Case for More Comedy

The success and reception of Murder on the Blackpool Express offer an interesting suggestion. Perhaps the BBC should consider commissioning more of these crowd-pleasing, feel-good comedies. In a time when audiences crave escapism and lighter entertainment, films like this provide much-needed laughter and joy. BBC could tap into this market by offering a balance between drama and comedy, catering to a wider audience with diverse tastes.

Conclusion

Murder on the Blackpool Express is a rare gem that brilliantly combines comedy, mystery, and unforgettable characters. With Johnny Vegas at the helm, the film takes viewers on a hilarious journey filled with laughter, suspense, and unexpected twists. Its success is a testament to the power and effectiveness of well-crafted humor, and hopefully, a sign that more light-hearted comedies will find a place on the BBC in the future.