The long wait is finally over for British fans of comedian Jimmy Carr. His much-anticipated feature film writing debut, the period drama spoof Fackham Hall, now has a confirmed UK release date.
When and Where to Watch Fackham Hall
The film will arrive in cinemas across the country on December 12, distributed by Entertainment Film Distributors. Unlike many modern releases, it will not be immediately available on streaming platforms. Instead, audiences will need to head to participating cinemas to catch the comedy.
Major chains including Odeon, Everyman, and Picture House are among those set to screen the film. This cinematic-only strategy aims to recreate the communal viewing experience that suits such a farcical comedy.
Star-Studded Cast and Critical Reception
Fackham Hall boasts an impressive ensemble cast. Alongside Jimmy Carr himself, who takes on a funny role as the vicar, the film features Tom Felton of Harry Potter fame and acclaimed actor Damian Lewis from Wolf Hall. They are joined by Thomasin McKenzie, Ben Radcliffe, Katherine Waterston, Emma Laird, and Anna Maxwell Martin, among others.
The film has already garnered positive attention. It currently holds a strong 86% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with many viewers praising its humour. Fans have described it as "stupidly hilarious," an "instant classic campy farce," and likened it to "Downton Abbey meets Monty Python."
The Guardian's three-star review noted its "light-hearted fun" and "sincere commitment to the artform" of spoof, while acknowledging the inherent limitations of the genre.
The Inspiration Behind the Comedy
Set in 1930s England, the parody was born from an idea Jimmy Carr developed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Actor Ben Radcliffe, who plays Eric Noone, explained to The Hollywood Reporter that Carr wanted to create a spoof of popular series like Downton Abbey.
Radcliffe also commented on the film's place in the current comedy landscape, stating, "There is a resurgence of this kind of comedy, which I know people love. It’s stupid and silly, but it’s also genius." He expressed his excitement at working with Carr, a comedian he has long admired.
Following its release in the US on December 5 by Bleecker Street, Fackham Hall is now poised to bring its unique brand of historical hilarity to British audiences just in time for the festive season.
