Mindhorn Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A washed-up actor pretends to be his old TV detective character with a fake robot eye to catch a killer who thinks the show is real, all while trying to get famous again.

🍿 Mindhorn: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to Richard Thorncroft and Mindhorn

Richard Thorncroft, a washed-up actor, is haunted by his past success as Detective Mindhorn, a character from a popular 1980s detective show set on the Isle of Man. Mindhorn had a robotic eye that could ‘see the truth.’ Thorncroft’s ego and subsequent public embarrassment derailed his career, leaving him struggling to find work in the present day.

The Kestrel’s Demand

A delusional criminal known as ‘The Kestrel’ begins terrorizing the Isle of Man and insists on speaking only with Detective Mindhorn. Seizing the opportunity for a career revival, Thorncroft reluctantly dons his Mindhorn persona, much to the annoyance of the local police force. This sets the stage for a chaotic investigation filled with comedic mishaps.

Return to the Isle of Man and Old Flames

Thorncroft returns to the Isle of Man, revisiting old haunts and attempting to rekindle his romance with Patricia Deville, his former co-star and love interest from the ‘Mindhorn’ series. He also navigates encounters with Peter Easterman, a former colleague whose career has far surpassed his own, adding fuel to Thorncroft’s professional jealousy.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Richard Thorncroft (Julian Barratt): A washed-up actor, famous for playing detective Mindhorn, who gets a chance to revive his career by assisting police with a delusional criminal.
• Paul Melly (Russell Tovey): A delusional criminal obsessed with the Mindhorn show, who demands to speak only with the fictional detective.
• Patricia Deville (Essie Davis): Richard’s former co-star and love interest, who is now a veterinarian on the Isle of Man.
• Clive Parnevik (Simon Farnaby): Mindhorn’s former stuntman, haunted by Thorncroft’s past arrogance and still working in the film industry.
• Peter Easterman (Steve Coogan): A former bit-part actor on Mindhorn who achieved greater success with a spin-off show, fueling Richard’s jealousy.
• DS Elena Baines (Andrea Riseborough): A detective sergeant who is skeptical of Thorncroft’s methods but relies on his help to catch the criminal.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Richard Thorncroft: “The Benedict Cumberbatch Backlash has begun.” – Richard says this when talking about other actors to show off his acting skills.
• Richard Thorncroft: “It’s truth time!” – Mindhorn’s catchphrase from the original TV show, used repeatedly and with increasing absurdity throughout the film.
• The Kestrel: “I’ve been expecting you, Mindhorn.” – Said by the delusional criminal, directly referencing classic villainous introductions from spy movies.

💰Box Office

• Budget: N/A
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: $815,829

💥 Mindhorn Reviews

Personal Review

I went into Mindhorn not knowing what to expect and came out pleasantly surprised! The humor is quirky and very British, which is right up my alley. Julian Barratt is brilliant as the washed-up Richard Thorncroft, and the supporting cast is equally hilarious. I especially loved the scenes with Simon Farnaby as Clive Parnevik. The robot eye is so bad it’s good, and the constant references to John Nettles had me cracking up every time. My favorite part was definitely when Mindhorn tries to record a new theme song for his show. It’s just so hilariously bad that it’s amazing. While the plot gets a little convoluted towards the end, the laughs keep coming. If you’re a fan of British comedy like ‘The Mighty Boosh’ or ‘Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace,’ you’ll definitely enjoy Mindhorn.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of British comedy”
  • “Viewers who appreciate parodies of 1980s detective shows”
  • “Those who enjoy quirky and absurd humor”
  • “Fans of Julian Barratt and The Mighty Boosh”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild language”
  • “Suggestive humor”
  • “Comedic violence”

Professional Reviews

• Screen International: “Mindhorn delivers consistent chuckles with its meta-satire and Julian Barratt’s committed performance, successfully lampooning cheesy 80s detective shows. However, a hackneyed plot and abrupt ending leave it feeling somewhat underdeveloped.
• Empire: “While not consistently laugh-out-loud funny, Mindhorn offers enough wry observations and self-deprecating humor to make it an enjoyable watch. Barratt’s performance is key to its success, though the film occasionally feels like a stretched-out TV sketch.
• The Guardian: “Mindhorn has a great premise, but it fails to fully capitalize on its potential. The humor is often hit-or-miss, and the plot struggles to maintain momentum. Despite a talented cast, the film feels ultimately underwhelming.

Audience Reactions

The meta humor and references to 80s detective shows hit the mark.: Viewers enjoyed the blend of nostalgia and self-aware comedy.

Julian Barratt’s performance is the highlight of the movie: Most people agree that Barratt’s portrayal of Richard Thorncroft carries the film.

Overall Consensus: Mindhorn is a quirky British comedy that delivers plenty of laughs, thanks to its talented cast and clever satire. While the plot may not be the strongest, fans of British humor will find much to enjoy.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Julian Barratt and Simon Farnaby spent nearly a decade developing the script for Mindhorn.”
• “The film was shot on location on the Isle of Man, adding authenticity to the setting of the fictional detective show.”
• “Several cast members, including Steve Coogan and Kenneth Branagh, made cameo appearances, adding to the film’s comedic appeal and star power.”

🖥️ How to Watch Mindhorn?

Currently, “Mindhorn” is available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms such as Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Amazon Prime Video. Check your local listings for streaming availability and purchase options.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Mindhorn, you might like these similar films:

• Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa (2013): Shares the theme of a washed-up media personality trying to regain relevance, with similar cringe comedy.
• Hot Fuzz (2007): Features British humor blended with a crime/action storyline, similar small-town setting with quirky characters.
• Galaxy Quest (1999): Parodies sci-fi TV shows where the actors are mistaken for their characters in real life.

🛒 Mindhorn Related Products

• Mindhorn: Series 1-3 DVD Box Set: Own the entire Mindhorn saga with this exclusive DVD box set! Includes all three series, bonus features, and behind-the-scenes footage. A must-have for die-hard Mindhorn fans.
• Mindhorn: The Board Game: Solve crimes as Mindhorn in this interactive board game. Use your bionic eye to uncover clues, interrogate suspects, and bring justice to the Isle of Man. Perfect for family game night!
• Mindhorn: Truthseer Eyepatch Replica: Become Mindhorn himself with this high-quality replica of the Truthseer eyepatch. Features authentic details and adjustable strap for a comfortable fit. The perfect accessory for cosplay or display.
• Mindhorn: It’s Truth Time T-Shirt: Show off your love for Mindhorn with this stylish t-shirt featuring the iconic catchphrase ‘It’s Truth Time!’ Made from high-quality cotton for a comfortable fit.

🎧 Soundtrack

Mindhorn features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Mindhorn Theme Song” – performed by Richard Thorncroft
• “The Truth Lies Within” – performed by Richard Thorncroft

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Mindhorn reviewed by Mark Kermode

Ever wondered what the critics thought of Mindhorn? Mark Kermode gives his take in this review, and honestly, it’s worth a watch just to hear his insightful opinion. See if you agree with his assessment!

✨ Rate