Arthur’s Whisky

Sky’s New Year’s Day release of Arthur’s Whisky started 2024 off with a wave of adorable silliness; between the witty banter and lovable, goofy characters, this unique Stephen Cookson film is certainly charming. With an hour-and-a-half run time, Arthur’s Whisky is short, sweet and one-of-a-kind.

Joan (Patricia Hodge) is recently widowed, and when she discovers her late husband Arthur’s strange whisky collection while attempting to clear out his shed with her best friends Linda (Diane Keaton) and Susan (Lulu), they drink it. This is no Jack Daniels, however; after drinking a neat glass in his honour, the trio wake up to find themselves nearly 40 years younger. Since Arthur’s passing, Joan has felt age hit her like a ton of bricks. Linda and Susan match this sentiment and convince Joan that they should continue to drink the whisky to regain their youth and complete their bucket list. 

A strange appearance by Culture Club’s Boy George occurs as well while the three find themselves in Las Vegas: Susan sings Karma Chameleon with him for seemingly no reason, and this cameo is slightly weird, but still adds to the comedy factor that writer Alexis Zegerman intended. It seems as though the goal of the film was to present the touchy subject of ageing and death in an uncomfortable, yet lighthearted way, and the production team conveyed this well through a creative concept.

Keaton is stellar in every role she takes on, and Arthur’s Whisky is no different. In addition, the chemistry between her, Hodge and Lulu is primarily what makes the movie endearing. Although those around them can be purposefully awkward, the three create a great performance that justifies any second-hand embarrassment. 

Overall, despite its flaws, Arthur’s Whisky is a feel-good film. There are not many films created with a mature set of main characters, and although the meaning of life is a well-covered subject, Arthur’s Whisky provides a special perspective; this female-centric, comedic production is much needed and well appreciated.

Taryn Crowley

Arthur’s Whisky is released on Sky on 1^st January 2024.

Watch the trailer for Arthur’s Whisky here: