Back in the 90s, Martin Clunes and Neil Morrissey were the beloved stars of the sitcom Men Behaving Badly, a show that encapsulated the essence of their humorous camaraderie. Fast forward a couple of decades and their relationship has transformed, but remnants of their banter still provide a glimpse into their enduring friendship. In their new three-part series, Neil and Martin’s Bon Voyage, airing on U&Gold, the duo embarks on a leisurely adventure across the picturesque landscapes of southern France.
The show, while delightful in its scenic exploration, raises questions about its necessity in the realm of celebrity travelogues. Morrissey and Clunes undoubtedly enjoy one another’s company, as evidenced by their jovial exchanges throughout the journey. But is their escapade merely nostalgia wrapped in a routine travel show?
Although they traversed charming destinations—canoeing along the Dordogne and sipping fine wines in Bordeaux—viewers might wonder whether the charm of a genuine friendship is enough to overcome the well-trodden formula of celebrity travels. After all, why do we tune in to see these familiar faces again? Isn’t it the hope of discovering the unexpected or witnessing their antics at the backdrop of beautiful locales that entices us?
On the road, the conversation delves deeper than mere antics. They reflect on their early days, reminiscing about how they met forty years ago during a production of Peter Pan, a milestone in their careers that established the foundation of their friendship. Morrissey adds a playful jab, reminding viewers he once snagged a role originally intended for Hugh Grant, a true testament to the unpredictable nature of acting careers.
Juxtaposed with their humorous banter is the seriousness of their differing upbringings—Morrissey candidly shares that he was in care from age eight, while Clunes experienced life at boarding school. “All those teachers hitting you with sticks—it was like a queue of people being nasty to you,” Clunes jokingly recounts, showing their ability to blend humor with poignant memories.
The show’s lightheartedness is underscored by moments of reflection. Morrissey explains, “You shouldn’t swig from a bottle; it bypasses the olfactory nerve, and taste is all about the smell.” This tidbit encapsulates the blend of their past raucous behavior with the current, more sophisticated enjoyment of their beverages, as both men have evolved over the years while maintaining a connection to their roots.
As they meander through the idyllic French countryside, their friendship becomes palpable, weaving through the laughter is a visible respect for the bond they share. Despite the occasional dad jokes and innuendos, it’s their genuine camaraderie that elevates the series, providing a fresh perspective amid the standard tropes often seen in similar shows.
Undeniably, Neil and Martin’s Bon Voyage has its flaws. It may appear like another celebrity travelogue, but the authenticity of their relationship shines through, reminding viewers of the warmth found in lasting friendships. The best moments arise not necessarily from the destinations explored but rather from the stories shared, solidifying their status as beloved figures from British television.
The essence of their dynamic isn’t just in the nostalgic humor of Men Behaving Badly, but also in how they adapt that spirit into their new adventures. They may have moved from raucous boys with little regard for consequences to more reflective men enjoying a beer in a beautiful vineyard, but their ability to make each other laugh remains unchanged.
Ultimately, while the premise may echo previous travel companions on TV, the heart of the show lies in reminding audiences how important it is to maintain friendships through thick and thin. Their journey across France may be leisurely, but the journey of their friendship is what truly captivates. With every sip and shared joke, Clunes and Morrissey pave the way for a new generation of viewers to witness an enduring friendship blossoming, all while navigating the beautiful and culturally rich backdrop of southern France. From canoeing adventures to meaningful conversations over a glass of wine, the series encapsulates the quintessential spirit of what age-old friendships can cultivate—laughter, warmth, and a nuanced understanding of shared experiences.
