Sometimes, a premise that doesn’t really interest me on paper can be made into something that I enjoy thanks to every element perfectly working in tandem. Mortimer and Whitehouse Gone Fishing is one such show, where comedians Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse go fishing across the UK (and in this special Christmas episode, Norway) and engage in conversation ranging from the mundane to the profound. These kinds of lifestyle, unscripted programmes don’t really appeal to me, and the reason this one does is because of the absolutely vibrant chemistry of its two leading men. There is a sharp banter between the two that is so natural that you almost feel like a third friend sat with them as you’re watching it. Beyond being a funny show about two mates having a laugh, there’s also the second thing that brings them together most aside from both being the lesser known half of a comedy double act – they both had near-death experiences with heart trouble. Much of their conversations veer into managing their health and the trials of getting older. The show’s tone and mood is very quaint, bittersweet and understated, complimented by the consistently fitting soundtrack choices which are particularly great in this episode (‘Just Like Christmas’ by Low was a lovely surprise to hear in action).
The spontaneity of Bob and Paul’s back and forth always makes for effortlessly watchable TV, but one thing that sets this episode apart from previous installments is the setting. The change of scene to the Norwegian mountains makes for some gorgeous imagery. The nature of the show also makes every new season feel like checking in with close friends that you don’t see very often, so it’s naturally fitting for a Christmas episode. Another thing that really makes the show is Bob’s wide-eyed child-like enthusiasm and excitement with fishing contrasted with Paul’s more casual but more assured approach. As someone who knows absolutely nothing about fishing, their different approaches and love for fishing make the show relatable.
Some highlights of the episode include the two of them staying overnight at a lighthouse, Paul proposing that Christmas only take place in World Cup years so that he doesn’t feel as sick of it and my favourite moment of the series where Bob and Paul try on a series of increasingly outlandish outfits at a clothes shop whilst improvising some very silly comedy. It’s so heartwarming and cozy and never fails to put a smile on my face. That really does apply to the whole episode and the whole series though, and this episode in particular is great for sure, but it’s not as though it towers above everything else they’ve done. It’s the kind of programme you can stick on and let it lift your spirits no matter what mood you’re in and I think it’s due for a greater viewership outside of the UK.