Comedy fans are set for a festive treat this Christmas with the highly anticipated return of Wallace and Gromit, who are back on screen for the first time since 2008. Their new adventure, titled Vengeance Most Fowl, promises to delight audiences young and old, as the beloved duo faces off against new and old foes once again. The film's release marks nearly two decades since their last major outing, A Matter of Loaf and Death, and introduces several new elements to the narrative.
Directed by the iconic Nick Park alongside co-director Merlin Crossingham, Vengeance Most Fowl showcases Wallace, the eccentric cheese-loving inventor voiced by Ben Whitehead, who has taken over the role after the beloved Peter Sallis passed away in 2017. Whitehead, who had previously voiced Wallace in various shorts and games, expressed his excitement about stepping back and finding his unique interpretation of the character. He described his first experience recording as 'very daunted,' but excited at every session. 'Getting this role meant so much to Peter,' he stated, and he emphasized the respect he holds for the late actor.
The story begins with Wallace becoming overly dependent on his inventions, including the introduction of Norbot, the latest 'smart gnome' he creates. The synopsis outlines Gromit's growing concern as Wallace's reliance on technology leads to chaos. They are soon pursued by their nemesis, Feathers McGraw, infamous from previous escapades and back with revenge on his mind. According to BBC's official synopsis, 'It's up to Gromit to put aside his qualms and battle sinister forces, or Wallace may never be able to invent again!'
Alongside Whitehead, the film features notable voices such as comedy legend Peter Kay as Chief Inspector Mackintosh, who has progressed from his role as police constable since The Curse of the Were-Rabbit. Reece Shearsmith lends his voice to Norbot, highlighting the humorous dichotomy of technology leading to chaos. Lauren Patel plays the role of PC Mukherjee, Chief Inspector Mackintosh's enthusiastic young protégé trying to solve the gnomes' ruckus. Diane Morgan voices the news reporter Onya Doorstep, known for her work on various comedy series.
The return of Feathers McGraw adds another intriguing layer, showcasing how nostalgia ties this film to its predecessors. Major themes resonate throughout, such as caution against the overreach of technology and the importance of companionship, particularly demonstrated through the relationship between Wallace and Gromit.
The film is set to air at 6:10 PM on Christmas Day 2023 on BBC One, and it will also be available for viewing on BBC iPlayer shortly thereafter, allowing fans worldwide to catch the new adventures of their favorite duo. Aardman's hallmark stop-motion animation brings visual charm and adds to the humor, promising viewers another dose of laughter and warmth just in time for the holidays.
At the heart of it, Vengeance Most Fowl not only entertains but also serves as a gentle reminder of the simple joys of creativity and the everlasting bond shared by Wallace and Gromit. Its release resonates with the sentiment of the season, proving to be just the festive pick-me-up many may need after two challenging years. Proponents of the much-loved series are hopeful this newest outing will charm both existing fans and new audiences alike, reinvigorate fond memories, and continue the beloved legacy of Wallace and Gromit.
Anticipation grows as viewers gear up to witness this new chapter of Wallace and Gromit, with fervent excitement surrounding the innovative storytelling and heartfelt nostalgia, making it the must-see film this Christmas!
