Our take
A New Year's Day caper about a Neighbourhood Watch run by the two least suitable people in the parish. It is undemanding, which the Guardian's critic said in so many words, and Joe Duffy's voice as the Live Line presenter is a nice Dublin touch. Not a Christmas episode beyond the tinsel. Pair it with Mammy's Mummy if you are working through the 2017 specials in order.
What happens
When a crime wave hits Finglas, the gardai prompt Father Damien and Maria to set up a Neighbourhood Watch scheme, and Agnes Brown and Winnie promptly sign up, though catching criminals is not something they are cut out for. After Cathy has yet another disastrous internet date, Agnes takes some unorthodox steps to put her daughter's man troubles to rest once and for all, and the BBC's description warns that airing your problems is not meant literally. Meanwhile Betty and Mark lock horns over whether Bono should go to his school disco. The Guardian noted a bit of tinsel on the set.
Can the kids watch it?
Not classified by the BBFC; the show's other specials are almost all rated 15 for strong language, and the swearing and innuendo are the same here, so treat it as 15 and over.
Cast and crew
Starring
- Brendan O'Carroll as Agnes Brown
- Jennifer Gibney as Cathy Brown
- Eilish O'Carroll as Winnie McGoogan
- Danny O'Carroll as Buster Brady
Guest stars
- Joe Duffy as Live Line Presenter V/O
- Jamie O'Carroll as Bono Brown
- Gary Hollywood as Dino Doyle
- Amanda Woods as Betty Brown
- Fiona O'Carroll as Maria Brown
- Susie Blake as Hillary Nicholson
Writer
- Brendan O'Carroll
Director
- Ben Kellett