Fackham Hall on Blu-ray: British Satire Gets a Second Chance

Fackham Hall, the 2025 send-up of British period dramas, has made its way to Blu-ray, giving punters another crack at its rapid-fire gags and tongue-in-cheek humour. Looking back at last year’s review by Matt Hambidge, it’s clear the film split opinions, but that’s par for the course with this sort of slapstick. The relentless pace means some jokes hit the mark, while others fall flat, but there’s no denying the film’s boldness in lampooning the world of stuffy aristocrats.

Unlike other spoofs that stick to familiar territory, this one takes aim at the upper crust, poking fun at the traditions and tropes of prestige dramas. The result is a film that’s both a loving nod and a cheeky jab at the likes of Downton Abbey, with a cast that’s more than up for the challenge.

Plot and Performances

The story centres on the Davenport family, a wealthy bunch trying to hold onto their status by marrying off their daughters. Rose, played by Thomasin McKenzie, isn’t keen on the idea of marrying for money and finds herself at odds with her pushy parents. The family’s attempts to keep up appearances lead to a string of mishaps and misunderstandings, all delivered with a straight face that only adds to the comedy.

McKenzie, usually known for more serious roles, brings a subtle touch to the chaos, making her a standout in the ensemble. Tom Felton, remembered by many as Draco Malfoy, leans into his role as the scheming Archibald Davenport, Rose’s cousin and would-be fiancé. The film doesn’t shy away from awkward territory, using the family’s tangled relationships as fodder for its jokes.

Style and Satire

From the opening scene, the gags come thick and fast. Even the title, Fackham Hall, is a bit of a wink, sounding suspiciously like a rude phrase when said with a British accent. The film follows in the footsteps of classics like Airplane!, relying on deadpan delivery and a barrage of visual and verbal jokes.

While spoofs have fallen out of favour in recent years, this one manages to recapture some of the old magic. The cast’s commitment to playing it straight is key, letting the absurdity of the situations do the heavy lifting. It’s a style that won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those who appreciate a bit of silliness, there’s plenty to enjoy.

Blu-ray Extras and Final Thoughts

The Blu-ray release is a bit light on extras, with only a handful of deleted scenes included. Still, the film itself is the main draw, offering a fresh take on a genre that’s often played too safe. If you’re a fan of over-the-top humour and don’t mind a few jokes missing the mark, it’s worth a look.

For those who like to take a punt on something different, Fackham Hall is a safe bet. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re after a bit of irreverence and a break from the usual, you could do a lot worse.