The Trip To Spain follows the same route at the previous instalments. Not literally. This time around Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon traverse Spain in a film that does not hold any real surprises but it does make for one funny and entertaining trip.
This film is directed by Michael Winterbottom who also helmed the previous films and two TV series. Once again, Rob Brydon and Steve Coogan play fictionalised versions of their comedian/actor selves. Brydon is the content family man who enjoys the opportunity for some down-time away from his wife and young children. For Coogan, this is a chance to write a novel and meet up for a holiday with his friend and afterwards with his son.
Like most vacations, not everything goes according to plan. Along the way Coogan is dumped by his American agent and is shocked by this, because he feels like he should still be considered hot property off the back of his Oscar nominations for Philomena. His son also cancels their trip. Coogan and Brydon also have a scene where it pours down but this also lends itself to a nice joke about the rain in Spain. Other Spanish references are also made as the pair discuss the Spanish inquisition, Don Quixote and other topics related to Spanish culture and history. These are induced alongside some sillier moments like when they hum the tune to the “Spanish Flea.”
The fans of the previous films will come along to this one expecting to see food porn, gorgeous locations and the pair’s witty banter and impressions. The Trip To Spain delivers on all of these fronts, with gorgeous dishes of anchovies and chorizo shown alongside scenes from the Basque country and other regions. The impressions are still excellent and funny, the Mick Jagger one by Coogan is worth the price of admission alone. Brydon also nails just about everyone else: Al Pacino, Michael Caine, David Bowie, etc. There are maybe one or two points where these get close to overstaying their welcome but most fans will be able to turn a blind eye to this minor transgression.
The Trip To Spain is a humorous comedy film that still manages to taste great two films on because the pair of funny men continue with their winning formula from before. It’s great to have a ringside seat to their competitive discussions, passionate verbal sparring and the cutting barbs they so frequently exchange. This is another delicious film that is ultimately a hilarious travelogue about aging, friendship and fine food. Yum.
Review Score: FOUR STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
The Trip to Spain opens in cinemas this Thursday, August 3rd
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