Porridge Season 2 Episode 8 Christmas Special: The Desperate Hours

In this Christmas special episode of the British sitcom Porridge, titled "The Desperate Hours," main character Norman Stanley Fletcher alias Fletch, played by Ronnie Barker, is still in prison at Slade. Fletch is a witty and experienced inmate who has been in and out of jail for most of his life. In this episode, he is joined by his friend, Lennie Godber, played by Richard Beckinsale, who is a younger and less confident inmate.

The episode begins with Fletch and Lennie discussing their Christmas plans in the cell they share. Lennie is excited about the prospect of a visit from his wife and young daughter, who bring him a hamper of festive goods. Fletch, however, is resigned to his fate and sees no point in getting his hopes up. He is anticipating a 'sober festive season' which will consist of a 'quiet pint of institutional slop with a mince pie chaser', just as they have every year.

However, things take a dramatic turn when three fellow inmates, the violent and volatile McClaren brothers, take Fletch and Lennie hostage in an attempt to gain their freedom. The McClarens need to escape that very night, and they need Fletch and Lennie's help to do it. Fletch and Lennie are held at knifepoint while the McClarens explain their plan. They will use blankets to climb the prison wall, but first they need Fletch's expertise in getting past the guard who patrols the yard. Fletch is sceptical about their chances of success, but he and Lennie have no choice but to go along with the plan.

The episode is tense and gripping as Fletch and Lennie try to stay calm and outwit the McClarens. Fletch, as always, maintains his cool and uses his quick wit to try to get out of the situation. At one point, Lennie is sent to retrieve a tool from the workshop and manages to subtly alert the guards to their predicament. There are also tense scenes as Fletch attempts to carry out the McClarens' plan without alerting the guards. Meanwhile, the rest of the inmates are preparing for the Christmas show.

The episode features many of Porridge's trademark laughs, but there is a darker tone to this story. There are moments of genuine tension and fear as Fletch and Lennie struggle to defuse the situation. The performances from the cast are excellent, particularly Ronnie Barker as Fletch. He brings a depth and complexity to the character that keeps viewers engaged and invested in the story. Richard Beckinsale is also excellent as Lennie, whose vulnerability and innocence make him the perfect foil for Fletch's cynicism and experience.

Despite the tension and drama, there are also heartwarming moments as Fletch and Lennie bond over their shared plight. The relationship between the two characters is one of the show's greatest strengths, and it is on full display in this episode. Their friendship is tested to its limits, but ultimately they come through it stronger than ever.

The episode concludes with a fittingly festive scene as the inmates gather to celebrate Christmas. There is a sense of camaraderie and togetherness that is heartwarming to see. The Christmas show is a highlight of the episode, with the inmates singing carols and performing a play.

Overall, "The Desperate Hours" is a standout episode of Porridge, and a classic Christmas special. It manages to balance humour and tension in a way that few sitcoms can. The performances are excellent, the story is engaging and the ending is both heartwarming and satisfying. Fans of the show will not be disappointed, and newcomers to Porridge will find a charming and entertaining episode to enjoy.