Click and Collect

Click and Collect is a heartwarming British Christmas television film that explores the length one will go for family love, unity and traditional Christmas joy.

The film’s screenplay was penned by Joe Tucker and Lloyd Woolf, and it was brilliantly directed by Ben Palmer. Click and Collect was produced by BBC and aired on Christmas Eve, 2018. The lead characters were portrayed by two of Britain's most celebrated comedians: sitcom star Stephen Merchant, best known for co-creating and co-writing "The Office" with Ricky Gervais, and Asim Chaudhry, famous for his BAFTA-nominated role in "People Just Do Nothing".

Stephen Merchant is Andrew Bennett, a devoted family man who wants nothing more than to make his daughter's Christmas wish come true. He prides himself on being the best dad, husband, and neighbor, always looking out for others and keeping the family traditions alive. The quiet suburban life suits Andrew perfectly.

But this perfect Christmas is at the verge of destruction when Andrew fails to purchase the one gift his daughter desperately wants. It is not any ordinary toy. It's the 'Sparklehoof the Unicorn Princess' – the most sought-after toy of the season, and it’s sold out everywhere. The worst part is, he had promised his little girl that Sparklehoof would be there under the tree on Christmas morning.

In the midst of his desperation, Andrew receives a glimmer of hope: he finds a seller online, the only catch being the toy is hundreds of miles away, in Carlisle while his family is in London. Despite knowing that it's Christmas Eve and the journey could be treacherous, Andrew decides to embark on this quest.

To make matters more interesting (and hilarious), Andrew’s mission is joined by his polar opposite neighbour, Dev D’Cruz (Asim Chaudhry). Dev is often shunned by their small community because of his awkward behavior and life mishaps. Despite having a contrasting personality compared to Andrew's perfect demeanor, Dev persuades Andrew to take him along for the ride. Dev believes that he can provide assistance and entertainment to Andrew in this hard time.

Their journey in Dev's unreliable but light-hearted van quickly turns into a funny, awkward, and insightful road trip. The unlikely duo encounters an odd mix of problems and peculiar situations along the way. They face multiple trials and tribulations as they drive across the country, but they also share unique and heartwarming moments.

Through their humorous encounters, tense moments, forced companionship, and challenging weather conditions, Andrew and Dev discover new sides of themselves and each other. The two men, who couldn’t be more different from one another, start seeing their own flaws, strengths and, most of all, the true meaning of Christmas and friendship.

The film draws its charm and appeal from the nuanced performances by Merchant and Chaudhry. Their comic timing and chemistry accentuate the film's humor, emotions, and messages. As the journey takes unexpected turns, they learn to rise above their differences and come together for the sake of a little girl’s Christmas wish.

This easy-going road trip film, set against the picturesque backdrop of the United Kingdom, blends comedy with emotion, capturing the true yuletide spirit. It provides a heartfelt look at parental love, good intentions, and the spirit of Christmas - all sprinkled with a dash of wit and humor.

In conclusion, Click and Collect is more than just a light-hearted Christmas comedy; it is about the lengths a father will go to fulfill his daughter’s wish, the unlikely friendships that form along the way, and about cherishing and reinforcing the values and spirit of Christmas. It is the perfect blend of humor, drama, and friendship that embodies the love, unity, and joy of Christmas. A perfect holiday watch for the whole family.