film criticism by maryann johanson | since 1997
A tart, sharp, life-affirming dramedy, one that is slightly more edgy and far less predictable than it probably has any right to be. Celia Imrie and Imelda Staunton are magnificent.
Sends up one-upwomanship, egotistical self-help, and reflexive hedonism with zing. It is a sheer triumph to see two older women being really funny onscreen.
Subjuvenile and offensive, sentimental and ridiculous. Every attempt at a joke falls flat. Every talent here is wasted. Save yourself.
Dressed by Joanna Lumley as her character from Absolutely Fabulous, for charity.
It’s part of National Doodle Day, in support of Epilepsy Action, which helps people living with epilepsy. You can text to vote for Eccleston’s sketch (or that of any of the many other celebs who contributed), or bid to buy the originals on eBay…
Part II is here. (It’s not too late to give some cash to Comic Relief — you could win some cool Red Nose Day gear from me.)
