Murder on the Blackpool Express is a 2017 comedy-drama television film written by Jason Cook. A parody of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express, the film blends humour with a mystery narrative. It stars Johnny Vegas as Terry, a down-to-earth coach driver, and Sian Gibson as Gemma, the tour guide and his love interest. The film also features a star-studded cast, including Sheila Reid, Una Stubbs (in her final role), Griff Rhys Jones, Nina Wadia, Nigel Havers, Kimberley Nixon, and Kevin Eldon. The plot revolves around a bus tour designed for mystery novel enthusiasts, led by the pompous author of the fictional books that inspired the trip. As the group visits various murder-themed locations, passengers mysteriously begin dying one by one. Initially dismissed as accidents by the authorities, it falls to Terry and Gemma to protect the group and solve the escalating mystery.
The story is set against scenic and iconic locations, including Blackpool Tower, the ballroom, and the seafront, alongside fictional spots like Bartleby Cathedral and Clesperley Manor. Its witty take on classic whodunits and its relatable characters earned Murder on the Blackpool Express critical acclaim and a strong audience following. It was first broadcast on Gold, becoming the channel’s highest-rated show at the time, and later rebroadcast on BBC Two, ensuring wider reach and popularity.
