‘Review of ‘Fackham Hall’: Damian Lewis and Katherine Waterston Star in a Hilarious Parody of ‘Downton Abbey’’

As Downton Abbey extended its run and transitioned to the big screen, it began to feel self-parodic, setting the stage for Fackham Hall. This film aims to lovingly spoof the English period drama genre, much like Scary Movie did for horror, Airplane! for disaster films, or the Austin Powers series for James Bond. The tradition of parodying popular films dates back over a century, exemplified by Edwin S. Porters 1905 The Little Train Robbery, which humorously mirrored his own The Great Train Robbery.

Created by British comedian Jimmy Carr and his brother Patrick Carr, Fackham Hall may not join the ranks of iconic spoofs, but it delivers enough laughs to entertain fans of Downton Abbey, arriving shortly after the franchises supposed final movie.

Like many spoofs, the film prioritizes quantity over precision. A rapid-fire succession of visual and verbal jokes ensures that while some may miss the mark, others land successfully. Director Jim OHanlon casts accomplished actors rather than obvious comedians, lending authenticity to the parody. Damian Lewis, typically associated with serious roles, shines as the bumbling Lord Davenport, with his hair serving as an additional visual gag. Katherine Waterston contrasts him with a straight-laced portrayal of Lady Davenport, while Thomasin McKenzie adds charm as their daughter Rose, who falls for Eric (Ben Radcliffe), a new employee skilled in both pickpocketing and deception.

Filmed on a real Liverpool estate that nearly matches Downton Abbeys grandeur, Fackham Hall nails the period detailsfrom the ornate sets and costumes to Oli Julians romantic score and Hayley Mills playful narration. Some jokes are overt, such as cutting to a child in uniform when a character remarks about someone going to war at a young age. Recurring gags, like mispronouncing Fackham Hall as Fuck em all, or a priests humorous punctuation errors, wear thin over time. Additional comedic hits and misses include a hunting accident with a falling deer, flatulence humor, and an extended Whos on First homage.

The film gains momentum when a murder occurs, shifting into a parody of Agatha Christie mysteries. Tom Goodman-Hill plays a Poirot-like inspector, humorously removing a fake mustache upon arrival. A flashback featuring the victims comical participation in his own death provides the highlight of the film.

Ultimately, Fackham Hall embraces its silliness. While period dramas like Downton Abbey, Gosford Park, and Upstairs, Downstairs may not seem as ripe for parody as horror or disaster films, this spoof offers plenty of laughs for those willing to tolerate its misfires.

Author: Lucas Grant