The film’s numerous faults mostly lie in the script. It’s so by the numbers, it seem Saunders wrote it in her sleep. But this misses the film’s main appeal, that of getting to hang out with Eddy and Patsy again. Saunders’ success in roping in most of the original actors from the multiple seasons of the television show also adds to the appeal. The well-chosen cameos are just icing on the cake.

The story revolves around Kate Moss; copious quantities of mind-altering substances, parties and well, that’s about it. There is no real character enlightenment and everyone seems little changed from the years since the show’s last run. Even being the feature length film that it is, it plays out more like an extended telly movie.

All these criticisms aside though, the film is just a fun trip down memory lane and keeping all the player’s narcissistic tendencies and selfish behaviours intact is the way it should be. Because who really wants to see a kinder and more mature Ab Fab?

Rob Hudson
www.facebook.com/abfabmovie

Absolutely Fabulous 1992–2012 follows the adventures and struggles of PR maven and fashionista Edina Monsoon (Saunders) and her best friend, magazine fashion director Patsy Stone (Joanna Lumley).
 

 
In their first outing, we get caught up with Edina’s emergency weight-loss regime, 40th birthday tantrums, last-minute fashion show preparations, a Romanian baby adoption plan, and the endless quest to remain relevant and fashionable.

In Character: Absolutely Fabulous
17 June 2016 – 2 July 2016
GOMA, Cinema A – Brisbane
www.qagoma.qld.gov.au