Cemetery Junction [DVD] [2010]

These men all live in their home town of Cemetery Junction, each working for an insurance company. Joining them there is their boss, played by Ralph Fiennes, with the cast also fleshed out by the likes of Emily Watson, Gervais himself and the terrific Matthew Goode.

But it’s Christian Cooke who catches the eye in what turns out to be the lead role of Freddie. It’s Freddie’s evolving professional and personal life that forms the core of the narrative, and laced with some fine comedic moments, he anchors the film well. It helps that Gervais and Merchant are so focused on how to put across the story, with the dingy style of 70s Britain captured terrifically well.

It’s quite a low key project, perhaps, and it doesn’t tread too much in the way of new ground. But Cemetery Junction is nonetheless fine work, and a quality British movie. It’s well worth seeking out. --Jon Foster

Special Features

• Commentary with Writers/Directors Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant
• Cast Commentary with Christian Cooke, Tom Hughes, and Jack Doolan
• Deleted Scenes
• The Directors: A Conversation with Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant
• The Lads Look Back: The Stars Discuss Cemetery Junction

Stills from Cemetery Junction (click for larger image)