Watch The Trip

The Trip is a British comedy-drama television series that first aired in 2010. The series stars Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon as fictionalized versions of themselves as they embark on a road trip across England's Lake District and various restaurants, reviewing food and engaging in witty banter.

The show was initially intended as a 6-episode television series but was edited and re-released as a feature film in 2011. The popularity of the show led to two subsequent sequels, The Trip to Italy in 2014, and The Trip to Spain in 2017. In 2020, there was a fourth season of the show set in Greece.

The Trip primarily follows the restaurant tours of Coogan and Brydon, who are both portrayed as fictionalised versions of themselves. Coogan is depicted as being self-centred, while Brydon is more laid back and family-oriented. Both comedians review different gourmet meals and engage in seemingly improvised conversations that explore themes such as aging, parenthood, and relationships.

The show is well-known for its comedic banter between Coogan and Brydon, who frequently impersonate celebrities and sing songs in different accents. The two comedians playfully compete with each other and engage in humorous verbal sparring. Their interactions are a particular highlight of the show and have been credited with helping to establish the series' popularity.

While the show is primarily a comedy, it also contains several dramatic moments, particularly in its exploration of the two protagonists' personal lives. Coogan and Brydon review their past relationships, discuss parenting, and confront the realities of aging. These themes are explored in a nuanced and often touching way, making the show a well-rounded experience.

The series was shot primarily in natural light and makes extensive use of the beautiful English countryside as a backdrop. The focus on food and landscapes gives the show a dreamy, meditative quality that adds to its overall appeal.

One of the most impressive aspects of The Trip is its format. The show plays with the conventions of television, blending documentary, drama, and comedy in a unique way. This format allows the show to explore its themes in surprising and exciting ways, keeping viewers engaged and invested in the show's storylines.

The Trip has been widely acclaimed and has won several awards since its initial release. Its popularity is due in large part to the chemistry between Coogan and Brydon, who are both accomplished comedians in their own right. Their playful, off-the-cuff humour makes the show feel fresh and entertaining, even after multiple viewings.

Overall, The Trip is an impressive television series. It blends different genres effectively, features excellent performances from its two leads, and explores its themes in a nuanced and insightful way. Anyone looking for a quirky, engaging, and well-made show should check out this cult classic.

The Trip is a series that ran for 4 seasons (26 episodes) between November 1, 2010 and on IFC Films