Bad Tidings
- TV Movie
- 2024
- 1h 20m
Grumpy home security expert Neil and his neighbour Scott are feuding, possibly because Scott insists on keeping his Christmas lights illuminated all year round. And mixing up their bins, cri... Read allGrumpy home security expert Neil and his neighbour Scott are feuding, possibly because Scott insists on keeping his Christmas lights illuminated all year round. And mixing up their bins, criticising Neil's 'project' car and generally winding him up. When local crime family, the B... Read allGrumpy home security expert Neil and his neighbour Scott are feuding, possibly because Scott insists on keeping his Christmas lights illuminated all year round. And mixing up their bins, criticising Neil's 'project' car and generally winding him up. When local crime family, the Brennans, decide to rob every house on the street in a single night, the pair must set asid... Read all
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Featured reviews
I have to say I really enjoyed this film. It was something that a lot of effort went into to create something new for Christmas in 2024. It wasn't breaking new ground, but it was a British comedy that was thoroughly enjoyable at this time of year. There were nods to Christmas classics like Deck the Halls and Home alone, done in a way that paid homage to the originals (with a British twist) without trying to be them directly. The chemistry between the two lead actors was brilliant. They made a great duo. I'd actually like to see more of them together in the future.
The humour that focused on the blind was done well enough that it didn't exploit nor undermine which must be difficult to get right and the sentiment of society often being oversensitive was handled perfectly.
It's amazing reading some of the negative reviews. I think a lot miss the point, a lot like many things in society these days. Folks are always trying to pick things apart rather than asking was this an enjoyable way to spend a few hours of my time without over thinking things. For me it certainly was and I'd certainly recommended giving this a watch over the Christmas period.
Not bad-a tight little film that has its shortcomings but could well become a slow burner. Sure, it's cheesy, with an abundant array of simplistic characterizations, but that's part of its charm. Add to that a fair few predictable jokes and action sequences, and you might think you've seen it all before. Yet, surprisingly, it's thoroughly enjoyable.
What really gives this TV film a massive, understated buoyancy is the writing-frankly, it's brilliant. Sharp, clever, and undeniably self-aware, the script elevates Bad Tidings beyond its modest production values and cliched setups. That alone could well make this a modern-day classic in the vein of cult favorites. Let's see how it ages, but I wouldn't be surprised if it quietly amasses a loyal following over time.
The performances are solid, with Lee Mack's comedic timing anchoring the lighter moments and Chris McCausland delivering a refreshingly dry wit that perfectly complements the film's tone. Their chemistry is palpable, carrying the story through even its more far-fetched twists.
But the real surprise comes right at the end, with a standout performance by the news reporter-a brief but striking turn that adds an unexpected layer of gravitas. With such talent and striking looks, the actor delivers a high-impact visual and emotional punch that lingers long after the credits roll.
It's not perfect-far from it-but 2024 Bad Tidings is more than the sum of its parts. It's entertaining, well-written, and oddly endearing, making it well worth a watch. Who knows? This might just be one of those films we look back on and wonder how it flew under the radar.
Fun comedic moments and characters. Lee + Chris are a good double act, but Chris is the funnier of the two.
I loved him on strictly and enjoyed watching him doing his own stunts and bantering with Lee. Was a good christmas feel good film with some heart and a nice takeaway message.
Not sure why its got negative reviews, some people like to moan.
It's a Sky made-for-TV movie made on a low budget.
It's basically an extended episode of Lee Mack's BBC Sitcom, "Not Going Out". If you enjoy that show and the ridiculously implausible storylines, you'll like this film. Lee plays Neil and the actor who plays his wife is very similar to the actor who plays Lucy in Not Hoing Out.
Lee Mack and Chris McCausland's styles of comedy blend together well. It is all a bit silly, a bit implausible and over the top, but it's a fun romp that you can put on and not have to think about too much. Not everything has to be an epic work of cinema. It's fun. It's an easy watch. It's family-friendly.
It won't be winning an Oscar (or even an NTA) but it's a fun is a fun 1hr20 of mindless humour and perfect for the festive season.
Did you know
- TriviaThe cat called Mr Baldwin is a nod to Tupele Dorgu previous role in coronation street as Kelly Crabtree a machinist for Mike Baldwin
Details
- Runtime1 hour 20 minutes
- Color
- Sound mix
- Aspect ratio
- 2.39 : 1