Review

by Mark Braxton

Clockwork bears waddle along to reggae music, two men advertise sachets of soil, a talent show is judged by Jeff Goldblum’s ironing board. It can only mean the return of Big Night Out. Back in the 90s, Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer shook up comedy with this variety show — loved by students — that could have been designed by Salvador Dalí.



Former art student Vic and solicitor Bob took their double act into the game show (Shooting Stars), drama (Randall & Hopkirk) and the sitcom (Catterick). But there’s something about their dadaist pantomime that lends itself to this particular format, though it won’t be for everyone.



Their unapologetic randomness tonight includes a top hat floating above the heads of Run-DMC, a few “quality acts” on the return of Novelty Island and a sexy interlude over a tin of corned beef. There are even surprise appearances from Tom Cruise and DJ Chris Evans. Spoiler alert: there aren’t.