Overview and Release
Benidorm: 10 Years on Holiday is a documentary which commemorates a decade of the famous British comedy-drama series Benidorm and it was aired in February 2018. This feature looks into the history of the show with exclusive interviews, reunions of the cast, and behind the scenes insights which is what fans will adore. Directed by David Kester and voiced by Tony Maudsley, this was produced by Shiver Productions for ITV and unlike many other past Benidorm Classics, this specific one revolves around the memories of the amazing characters alongside the Solama Resort.
Plot Summary
The documentary encapsulates the journey of Benidorm which spanned of a decade, for the loyal fans which ensured that Benidorm is now considered to be more than just a show, Andrew Collins being one of those fans to say “the enduring appeal of the show Steve thanks fond memories of the iconic Solana resort and all the characters”.
In the words of Andrew Collins “above all” he believes that there is much more to Benidorm than its memorable storylines and clip. The special Benidorm commemorates focuses on the filming struggles, the improvisations being thrown around, and the relationships which were built behind the cameras. This special also paid tribute to the iconic characters such as Mick, Kenneth and Shelia Reid.
Beyond the comical moments, the documentary explains why the audiences connected with the show. It was the portrayal of an imperfect family who went to Spain for a holiday that was relatively cheap and the struggles of a package holiday. Comments from the cast members on their thoughts about the show, their memories relating to it and how the show influenced their career are also included.
Key Characters and Performances
Tony Maudsley (Kenneth Du Beke): Maudsley steals the stage in his role as the flamboyant hairdresser as his persona bursts through while he provides commentaries tinged with humor during his narrations of the episodes best comedic glimpses.
Sheila Reid (Madge Harvey): Sheila Reid stars as the “Sun lounger Queen” in Benidorm , and gets to play the role of a sarcastic grandmother who rode on a mobility scooter and was infamous for her scathing insults.
Steve Pemberton and Siobhan Finneran (Mick and Janice Garvey): The storylines of the Garvey family include some of the more memorable ones. Pemberton and Siobhan talk to us about some of their favorite scenes from the Garvey family and how those helped in the creation of the legacy the show holds now.
Jake Canuso (Mateo Castellano): Cheeky bartender in Solana Jake Canuso, now shares his memories while filming the show and how he became a fan favorite because of his flirtatious behavior, energetic dance moves and casual chats.
The special also includes cameos from guest stars and actors who were featured on a more episodic basis, such as Sherrie Hewson (Joyce Temple-Savage) and Johnny Vegas (The Oracle), who are all good for a smile or two, and some touching moments.
Direction and Cinematography
David Kester’s direction is a perfect mirror of Benidorm’s warmth and escapism, using stills from the show together with footage from the actual resort in Spain. The more traditional elements are also appearing, such as intercut montage sequences reminiscent of memory pictures and informal discussions with the cast that helps to set up such good cheer that it feels like a meeting of old friends for viewers and the cast of the show.
The set design sheds light on the enduring legacy of the Solana Resort, an icon of carefree overly long haired holidays, as well as the comic legacy of the show based on British vacationers.
Themes and Analysis
The documentary is lively and humorous with an overriding message of family, friends, and having fun under the sun. It shows how even the more humorous characters, settings, and the show were able to convey the highs and lows which were themes of the low budget vacation.
A key theme is the idea of belonging. Benidorm illustrates how even a disparate group of strangers can come together And bond by virtue of their shared activities. The film as a whole is also keyed to the idea of viewer marketing and seemingly implies why the series has become comfort television for many people.
Critical Reception
Benidorm: 10 Years on Holiday received great reviews from Fans and critics alike. Fans praised the documentary for being a loving tribute to the show. There was a hint of nostalgia sprinkled with humor and the actors gave the fans a chance to reminisce their favorite moments in the show.
However, there were some critics who pointed out that Benidorm: 10 Years on Holiday relied too much on nostalgia, but it did succeed in reminding viewers why Benidorm was so popular in the first place. The audience of the show appreciate the documentary for staying close to the essence of the show and bringing back the warmth and joy which made Beindorm a Baker British television.
Concluding Remarks
Benidorm: 10 Years on Holidays acts as a great send-off to a legendary show that a certain segment of the British television landscape deeply loved. The British comedy show has left behind a legacy worth cherishing. This mockumentary does precisely that by showcasing never seen before footages, heartwarming interviews, and side-splitting moments that are sure to leave the viewers in stitches. If you have been a die-hard follower of the TV show or if you are just starting to discover it, this special will surely encapsulate the joyful adventure that Benidorm has been in gold.
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