Watch God Rot Tunbridge Wells!

God Rot Tunbridge Wells! is a historical dramedy that was released in 1985. The film is directed by John Wells and features Trevor Howard, Dave Griffiths, Christopher Bramwell, and others. It's a satirical take on the life and times of the infamous Reverend John Graham (aka John Fromentine). The film is set in the mid-18th century and opens with Reverend Graham (played by Trevor Howard) taking up his new post as the vicar of Tunbridge Wells, a spa town in the South of England. He's an ambitious and flamboyant man who has a penchant for wine, women, and the finer things in life. His arrival in the town is met with varying degrees of hostility from the townspeople, who view him as a pompous and immoral man.

As time passes, Reverend Graham's reputation as a loose-living and debauched vicar only grows. He's involved in a string of affairs that include the wives of prominent townspeople, and his financial mismanagement of church funds leads to his ultimate downfall. However, his sense of humor and quick wit keep him from being completely reviled by the townspeople, and his life is a perpetuation of chaotic and humorous events.

God Rot Tunbridge Wells! combines history, comedy, and drama to create a unique blend of entertainment. The film is visually captivating, with gorgeous costumes and authentic set design that places the viewer right in the middle of 18th-century England. The humor is often biting and satirical, and there are moments of real poignancy that elevate the film beyond a straightforward comedy of manners.

Trevor Howard's performance as Reverend Graham is nothing short of extraordinary. He encapsulates the character's charm, charisma, humor, and dark side with equal measures of elegance and ease. Through Howard's performance, we see a man who is both a cad and a charmer, a sinner and a man of God. His performance is so magnetic that you almost root for him to turn his life around even when he's acting deplorably.

The film's supporting cast is also superb. Dave Griffiths, in particular, is a standout as the town's apothecary, who becomes Reverend Graham's reluctant sidekick. The chemistry between the two men is palpable, and their scenes together are some of the film's most amusing. Christopher Bramwell gives a solid performance as a local politician who finds himself drawn to Reverend Graham, even as he tries to expose his misdeeds.

The film is not without its flaws, however. Some of the scenes run on for too long, and the pacing can be slow in parts. Additionally, there are moments of slapstick humor that don't quite land or feel out of place. However, these minor issues do not detract from the overall enjoyment of the film.

In essence, God Rot Tunbridge Wells! is a delightful period film that's brimming with comedy, drama, and skilled performances. It's a must-watch for fans of historical dramedies or anyone looking for an entertaining and insightful portrayal of life in 18th-century England. It's a film that will leave you feeling charmed, entertained, and, above all, grateful that you didn't have Reverend Graham as your vicar.