Our take
The most party-shaped of the specials, and the one with the most going on: a host trying to keep a lid on things, a guest who wants a better party elsewhere, and a lonely neighbour about to be left behind at Christmas. It is busy rather than cosy, but the kazoo game and the plan to cheer up Christine give it a heart, and Alan's well-meant intervention is a proper sitcom misfire.
What happens
After last Christmas in the Highlands, Michelle and Alan are back on home turf and welcome the neighbours for a pre-Christmas get-together. It all starts merry and bright, but the mood soon frays. As Beth and Eric sit down, they are given an on-the-spot invitation to spend Christmas with Gordon's parents in Yorkshire, and agreeing to it leaves Christine feeling vulnerable. Gordon irritates Ian with all his fussing, and Cathy, as ever, is desperate to find the real party, leaving Michelle struggling to keep the evening on track. There are brief glimmers of harmony when the neighbours play a silly kazoo game and decide to do something special for Christine, but Alan's attempt to help Ian de-stress backfires, and Gordon ends up ruining things for everyone.
Can the kids watch it?
Rated 15 by the BBFC for strong language and drug misuse, so it is for older teenagers and adults.
Cast and crew
Starring
- Arabella Weir as Beth
- Alex Norton as Eric
- Elaine C. Smith as Christine
- Doon Mackichan as Cathy
- Jonathan Watson as Colin
- Jamie Quinn as Ian
- Kieran Hodgson as Gordon
- Joy McAvoy as Michelle
Guest stars
- Graeme Stevely as Alan
- Alan McHugh as Father Di Marco