Cue Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman’s “Time to say goodbye…”, because the time has come, and we have indeed reached the final curtain.
After a decade, and nine superb series, we have come to the end of Inside No. 9, with the mysterious final episode, titled “Plodding On”. Going in, we knew next to nothing, barring the title, and for the fans who have followed this show since the beginning, and those who discovered this gem in the BBC schedule along the way, this ending was truly a huge thank you. One that gets better and better the more you think about it.
“Plodding on” sees a private function celebrating the end of Inside No. 9 get incredibly personal! As Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton (playing fictitious versions of themselves) may realise they are reaching the end in more ways than one.
Starting off as a homage to the very first episode “Sardines”, this one opens out into a testament to double acts and friendship, through the eyes of a wicked showbiz satire. Blending fact and fiction to great aplomb, this finale almost feels like a modern take on Stan & Ollie, as it shows a duo reaching the finale of their road together, as frictions develop but the true value of their partnership and friendship, and creative brotherhood, is (re)discovered and shines through.
Featuring a good portion of all the incredible guest stars (one of which is truly gratifying and deserved, and an absolute treat to fans of British ‘70s TV and film in particular) that have appeared over the years, this one is rife with cameos and some sterling supporting performances, that add a chorus of belly laughs to the poignant dramatic symphony between a sublime Pemberton and Shearsmith.
Littered with lines and references to a plethora of previous series and episodes, this episode relishes in the accomplishment that is this anthology show’s history, and still retains an identity of its own, feeling like a meta story reflecting on the very real Inside No. 9 journey, blended with a playing up to the perceptions people had of the show and its creators/stars, and a parody of the creative process and acting profession.
The final scenes are a warm reminder of just what this show has come to mean to us all, and what this duo mean to one another. And the very last gag in this emotional, hilarious and clever ride, is one sure to have fans absolutely roaring…so hold on tight!
“Plodding On” is a heartfelt, fitting, farewell to what was for 10 incredible years, the best show on television. Bravo!
Inside No. 9 Series 1 – 9 in their entirety are available on BBC iPlayer.
