Fackham Hall: A Spoof of Aristocratic Proportions
A Playful Title with a Cheeky Twist
The title “Fackham Hall” immediately evokes a sense of mischief, especially when pronounced with a Cockney accent. For those in the know, it transforms into a cheeky phrase: “Fuck ’em all!” This clever wordplay sets the tone for a film that revels in its own juvenile humor. As a parody of the Merchant Ivory and “Masterpiece Theatre” genres—now more commonly associated with “Downton Abbey”—the film positions itself as a playful jab at the tropes that have long defined historical romantic costume dramas.
Setting the Scene: A Grand Country Mansion
As we approach the imposing gates of Fackham Hall, a lavish British country mansion set in 1931, the film introduces us to the aristocratic Davenport family. The mansion’s inscription, “Incestus ad Infinitum,” serves as a running gag that highlights the absurdity of aristocratic marriages, where marrying a cousin is the norm to preserve wealth. This clever commentary on the absurdities of high society is encapsulated in a courtly line: “You are the most beautiful Davenport sister currently available.” The sisters, Rose (played by Thomasin McKenzie) and Poppy (Emma Laird), are tasked with the challenge of marrying the right cousin to maintain their luxurious lifestyle.
A Comedic Family Tree
In a nod to the legendary rock band, the Davenport brothers are humorously named John, Paul, George, and Ringo, all of whom have met untimely ends. When Poppy flees from her wedding to the insipid Archibald (Tom Felton), it falls to Rose to step in. However, her heart belongs to Eric Noone (Ben Radcliffe), a dashing Cockney orphan who arrives at Fackham Hall with a letter and unexpectedly becomes an assistant. This love triangle adds a layer of romantic tension amidst the comedic chaos.
Crafting the Parody: A Team of Writers
Directed by Jim O’Hanlon, “Fackham Hall” boasts a script crafted by a diverse team of five writers, including Steve Dawson and Jimmy Carr. The film meticulously recreates the world it aims to parody, which often enhances the humor. However, the tone remains somewhat restrained, causing many jokes to land softly rather than with the explosive laughter one might expect from a true spoof.
Moments of Humor and Wit
Despite its gentle approach, the film does deliver some chuckles. Damian Lewis shines as Lord Davenport, embodying the quintessential aristocrat with a blend of clueless entitlement and charm. Lady Davenport (Katherine Waterston) humorously laments her daughter’s status as a “dried-up, over-the-hill spinster” at the tender age of 23. The film also features a hunting party that spirals into chaos, reminiscent of a Dick Cheney hunting incident, and a clever nod to contemporary literature with Rose reading “One Shade of Gray.”
A Blend of Raucous and Gentle Humor
Interestingly, while “Fackham Hall” features a number of risqué jokes, the overall tone remains light-hearted. The film attempts to break through the genteel facade of the “Downton Abbey” genre with R-rated humor, yet even the most obscene gags land with a gentle thud. Unlike the aggressive comedic style of classics like “Airplane!” or “The Naked Gun,” which thrive on anarchic energy, “Fackham Hall” opts for a more whimsical approach.
The Absurdity of Aristocracy
The film’s humor often stems from the absurdity of its aristocratic characters and their situations. A particularly memorable scene involves a drawing-room performance of a song titled “I Went to the Palace With My Willie Hanging Out,” complete with a digitally scrambled shot of the piano player’s anatomy. Such moments encapsulate the film’s playful spirit, even if they don’t elicit the uproarious laughter one might hope for.
A Lighthearted Experience
Ultimately, “Fackham Hall” is a film that embraces its own silliness. While it may not shock viewers into fits of laughter, it provides enough amusing moments to keep audiences entertained. The film’s blend of clever wordplay, absurd situations, and a light-hearted tone makes it a delightful romp through the world of aristocracy, even if it doesn’t quite reach the comedic heights of its predecessors.
