Thescreescore – Tom Felton, known for his role in Harry Potter, is leading a comedic charge against the hallowed halls of period dramas with "Fackham Hall." In a recent interview, Felton, alongside director Jim O’Hanlon and cast members Katherine Waterston and Damian Lewis, dissected the film’s unique brand of humor, revealing how it "takes the mick out" of the genre with affection and a whole lot of silliness.
"Fackham Hall" unfolds in a sprawling manor, home to the wealthy Davenport family and their staff. The film is a spoof, similar to Downton Abbey, Airplane! and Another Period. Felton plays Archibald, a baron set on marrying his cousin, Rose Davenport (Thomasin McKenzie), for financial security. However, Rose’s affections drift towards Eric Noone (Ben Radcliffe), a newcomer framed for murder, turning everyone into a suspect.
Written by comedians Jimmy and Patrick Carr, alongside the Dawson Bros., "Fackham Hall" has garnered positive reviews for its blend of murder mystery and zany comedy. Director Jim O’Hanlon, approached by producer Kris Thykier, was immediately drawn to the "fantastic script" that spoofed British period dramas. He found the script packed with clever, silly, sophisticated, and unsophisticated jokes.
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O’Hanlon, who previously directed the 2009 adaptation of Jane Austen’s "Emma," noted the humor inherent in classic novels of manners. He emphasized that while "Fackham Hall" features close-to-the-bone jokes, the best parody comes from affection. Costume designer Rosalind Ebbutt, who worked on "Emma," ensured the film’s period accuracy, even amidst the chaos.
The cast echoed O’Hanlon’s sentiments. Felton described the script as "absolute ludicrousness," blending his mother’s love for period dramas with his father’s passion for British humor, from Fawlty Towers to Monty Python. Waterston praised the script’s beautiful craftsmanship and the opportunity to deliver its wild lines. Lewis appreciated the film’s uncynical silliness, reminiscent of "Naked Gun" and "Airplane!," and enjoyed playing a character who "just won’t die."
O’Hanlon cast Lewis after seeing him on a dad’s football team. He believed Lewis could find the comedy by playing it straight. Felton also committed to playing his role with a straight face, avoiding any winking at the camera. O’Hanlon emphasized the variety of jokes in the film, from visual gags to wordplay and highbrow references.
Felton highlighted the film’s unique setting and the blend of visual gags and subtle wordplay. O’Hanlon described the challenge of shooting two movies simultaneously: a serious period drama and a ridiculous comedy. He praised the actors’ ability to play it straight while absurd events unfolded in the background.
Felton joked about his character’s romantic misfortunes, while O’Hanlon playfully called Archibald a "dick." Lewis enjoyed the physical comedy and the opportunity for clowning, while Waterston focused on building her character and trusting the comedy on the page. The cast agreed that Thomasin McKenzie was the best at keeping a straight face, while others struggled to contain their laughter.
"Fackham Hall" is now in theaters, promising audiences a hilarious and affectionate skewering of the period drama genre.
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