Sideshow

Synopsis

Sideshow, released in 2022, follows the story of a washed-up comedian Max Hardwell, portrayed by Les Dennis, who finds himself reluctantly joining a small seaside carnival as a last resort. As Max navigates the quirky world of the carnival and forms unexpected bonds with its eccentric performers, he rediscovers his passion for comedy and a sense of belonging. Amidst the colorful backdrop of the carnival, Max learns valuable life lessons and confronts his inner demons, leading to a heartwarming tale of redemption and self-discovery.

Cast

• 

  Les Dennis

  Pendrick

• 

  April Pearson

  Eva

• 

  Nathan Clarke

  Dom

• 

  Anthony Stewart Head

  Gerald

• 

  Adrian Harris

  Bill

• Pameli Benham

  Doris

Reviews

Sideshow, directed by Adam Oldroyd and starring Les Dennis, received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the heartfelt performances and the film's nostalgic charm, others found the storyline predictable and the pacing uneven. IMDb gave Sideshow a rating of 5.5/10, with viewers appreciating the emotional depth of the characters but criticizing certain plot inconsistencies. Rotten Tomatoes' score of 33% reflected the divisive opinions, with critics highlighting Dennis' portrayal and the ensemble cast's chemistry as strengths, while noting the lack of originality in the plot. Despite the mixed reception, Sideshow manages to deliver a message of resilience and the power of community.