Beat Generation, The (The Comic Strip Presents . . . )

Date: 1983
Director: Bob Spiers
Production Company: Comic Strip Productions

Stars: Adrian Edmondson, Rik Mayall, Dawn French, Jennifer Saunders, Nigel Planer, Michael White, Keith Allen
Location(s): Devon

Region(s):

Storyline:

In 1960, a weekend hipster invites a group of beat poets to his father’s luxurious villa by the sea, where they indulge in a hedonistic and surreal lifestyle.

Additional Information:

Page compiled by Steve Randall

A television film from ‘The Comic Strip Presents . . . ‘ series.

Series 1, episode 3.

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  • Capture 1
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At an outside cafe, talent bookers Michael White (Michael White) and Brian Epstein (Keith Allen) are putting together a variety bill. This serves to establish the time setting as 1960. Unknown location.

  • Capture 2
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Desmond (Adrian Edmonson) is at his father's country home on the coast. This is Maelcombe House, which was a large Edwardian house near to East Prawle, Devon.

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Desmond's friends are arriving by car. They stop at a petrol station. Benedicts Bridge Garage, Liverton, Newton Abbot, Devon.

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Eleanor (Dawn French) looks out of the car window as they pick up Kix (Daniel Peacock), who is using a crowbar to release a sweet machine. Benedicts Bridge Garage, which still exists as an MOT centre.

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The car carrying the beatniks drives eastwards along the Old Liverton Road passing the sign for the Star Inn, Liverton, Newton Abbot.

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Charles (Nigel Planer) is discussing a book deal with an associate Kurt (Robbie Coltrane) when he is picked up by the gang at the outdoor cafe. Unidentified location.

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At the mansion arty Charles pontificates while brassy Anne (Jennifer Saunders) is on the roof making a phone call. Maelcombe House.

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Jeremy (Rik Mayall) and Anne share a tender moment by the sea. South Milton Sands, Kingsbridge, Devon. Thurlestone Rock can be seen in the distance. The location is also seen in 'Isn't Life Wonderful'.

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Mayhem continues inside the mansion. Maelcombe House has since been demolished and rebuilt as a luxury home.