Why we picked it – If you look back at the Film on Friday programmes, one genre we are definitely a bit short on is comedy. So here is one to kick this season off.

Synopsis – Brian is a recluse, living alone in a broken down cottage in Wales. He spends his time building quirky contraptions which seldom work. So, when he decides to build an AI-powered robot from a washing machine and a tailor’s mannequin, our hopes are not high. But the robot activates during a thunderstorm (echoes of Frankenstein) and names itself Charles Petrescu. Initially innocent, Charles follows the path of any child, becoming rebellious and wanting to explore the world. This ignites an uncertain romance for Brian but, more dangerously, attracts the attention of Brian, the local bully, and his two spoiled teenage daughters.

The film – Brian and Charles started as characters in a radio show and became a stand-up act. It was initially filmed as a short. Developing a sketch-length idea into a feature film does not always work, but here it does and the film skilfully pivots from ironic comedy into rural menace, and then back to a sweet-natured happy ending. Filmed during lockdown, the film’s reflections on loneliness and bullying became unexpectedly topical. If you would like to know more, watch the Q&A session at the BFI below.

Director: Jim Archer; Writers: David Earl, Chris Hayward; Cinematography: Murren Tulett; UK 2022 90 mins, PG

Links: Guardian review The Times review