The festive spirit is alive as the highly anticipated Christmas comedy film, Bad Tidings, is set to premiere on Sky and Now TV on December 22, 2023. This film features renowned comedians Lee Mack and Chris McCausland, whose dynamic chemistry promises both humor and heart, fulfilling the appetite for holiday entertainment.
Set against the backdrop of Epping Forest and filmed primarily at night, Bad Tidings portrays the comedic rivalry between Mack's character, Neil, and McCausland's Scott, both competing for the position of head of the neighborhood watch. The film, shot with assistance from the Essex Film Office, takes audiences on a ride filled with light-hearted antics as the duo attempts to protect their street from local criminals on Christmas Eve.
Filming took place over four weeks, with scenes shot at various locations, including a housing development in Stapleford Abbots. Josiah Eloi, who plays Little Barry Brennan, noted, "The film is kind of like Home Alone but with two middle-aged blokes," reflecting the playful yet chaotic nature of the storyline. Eloi recounted the late-night filming sessions, highlighting moments shared with co-stars, saying, "At 04:00, I was sat next to Lee Mack and Chris McCausland drinking Diet Coke and talking loads of rubbish. It was tiring, but I think it’s come out alright."
The film follows Neil and Scott as they strive to showcase their neighborhood safety skills, only to find themselves defending their street when confronted by infamous local criminals. Their attempts to outshine each other through festive decorations lead to uncontrollable disruptions, resulting in shared responsibilities and unexpected thrills of vigilante justice.
Mark Durham, Essex County Councillor for The Arts, Heritage and Culture, acknowledges the significance of showcasing local talent, stating, "Essex is an amazing place to live, work and visit. It's great to be recognized at this level and for international audiences to see our potential." Such comments underline the increasing recognition of Essex as a viable backdrop for film and media productions.
Unlike previous holiday films with undeniable charm, critics have pointed out Bad Tidings as lacking memorable jokes or standout moments. James Hibbs, Drama Writer for Radio Times, remarked, "Bad Tidings feels empty and forgettable, lacking memorable jokes and scenes," implying the film does not deliver the joyfulness often expected from festive cinema. Despite this, the film showcases the unique qualities of its star-studded cast and captures some lighthearted slapstick moments.
Despite mixed reviews, Bad Tidings promises entertaining content for family viewing, fitting snugly within the genre of holiday films aimed at all ages. With its release coming just days before Christmas, it stands to inject some cheer during the festive season. The film's combination of veteran comedians and the warmth of community spirit will see audiences marking their calendars for this Christmas offering.
While there are criticisms of the execution, the tried-and-true festive formula is present, with Mack and McCausland drawing from their previous onscreen chemistry. Their performances will likely resonate with viewers, offering laughter-filled moments, even if they feel derivative of prior festive productions.
For those seeking more Christmas cheer, Bad Tidings invites viewers to settle down with family and enjoy this comedic romp, which alongside traditional favorites, aims to bring joy to the holiday experience. So grab your popcorn, gather your loved ones, and tune in to see if this new Christmas tale delivers upon its festive promise.
