Filming starts next month on a new cinema comedy from the creators of BBC hit comedy Outnumbered.
Written and directed by Guy Jenkin and Andy Hamilton, What We Did on Our Holiday is described as a heart-warming and uplifting comedy which tells the story of an ordinary family trying to survive in extraordinary circumstances.
Doug and Abi are taking their three children on a trip to Scotland for a big family gathering. They are in the midst of a difficult divorce, and have asked the kids to keep it a secret from their extended family.
But as the inevitable feuds kick in, a completely unexpected turn of events involving the children causes further tensions to rise to the surface. And with the repercussions that ensue – hilarious and emotional in equal measure – the family are forced to put aside their differences and work together or else risk losing what they hold most dear.
The film, which has received support from the National Lottery through Creative Scotland, will be shooting on location in Scotland across Glasgow and the Highlands.
The film is also being back by BBC Films and stars some of Britain’s best-loved acting talent including Billy Connolly (The Hobbit, Quartet), Rosamund Pike (An Education, Jack Reacher), David Tennant (Broadchurch, Nativity 2), Ben Miller (Johnny English, Death in Paradise) and Amelia Bullmore (Twenty Twelve, Scott & Bailey).
David Thompson at Origin Pictures commented, “All of us at Origin are really excited about working with Guy and Andy and the great cast assembled. Finding original comedies has been a key part of Origin’s agenda. This is a funny, original and rather moving script with universal themes- and we believe it will delight audiences all over the world.”
Christine Langan, Head of BBC Films, added “Having consistently thrilled and delighted TV audiences, Andy and Guy are bringing their unique and brilliant brand of comedy to the big screen with the help of some of Britain’s brightest talent. BBC Films is proud to support this exciting debut and to see Billy Connolly, David Tennant and Rosamund Pike in major comedy roles.”
Andrew Orr at Independent commented: “This is the funniest script that has come out of the UK in years. It’s both edgy and commercial and will appeal to anyone who has ever felt like laughing and crying during a tense family gathering.”
