Charles Paris is his own worst enemy, a louche lush who can resist anything except temptation - especially in the form of women and alcohol. He’s been out of work so long now he feels he may never get a job and he’s driving Frances, his semi-ex-wife, mad. So when he’s offered a small role in a play, she nearly pushes him out of the door. But it seems that ‘The Message is Murder’ is such a terrible production that someone wants to kill off the cast. First there is a series of nasty accidents, then someone attempts to stab Charles. Can he find the murderer before they strike again? Bill Nighy stars as Charles Paris in this entertaining dramatisation by Jeremy Front.
©2012 AudioGO Ltd (P)2012 AudioGO Ltd
"Another BBC Value Performance"
BBC Radio Drama rates usual kudoes!
Soundtrack mimics Golden Oldies of Charles Paris's past, reminding us of his age. Dialogue is sparkling.
All Bill Nighy's performances as Charles Paris are delightful, well worth the modest cost...
Yes, and I did so twice...
Only the Colonial Radio Theater performances come close to matching the BBC Radio Crime dramas. Both troupes are well worth snapping up every offering.
"Quick entertainment"
As it was made for radio I thought they did a fair job of bringing the characters to life in the short time available; it took a bit of imagination to fill in the blanks but that's what radio is about and why we have the gift of imagination.
Yes, I quickly came to know who the characters were and how their idiosyncrasies made up their personalities
I don't know....too much realism has hit our screens; I'm not sure this would make it past the first season.
This radio drama is a great listen when doing those humdrum chores around the house.
"Charles Paris Rules!"
These radio plays are good mysteries but Bill Nighy as Charles Paris makes them great. He is witty, unbearable, sexy, hilarious, and mostly drunk. Suzanne Glover as his long suffering wife Frances is absolutely perfect. It's easy to see why they achieved 35 years of "divorce avoidance." They have great vocal chemistry. The rock and roll sound tracks are a big plus. More, please.
"This is GREAT!!!"
I would totally recommend this to anyone who loves british comedy, drama, mystery, etc. Well written and easy to follow.
My favorite character is Maurice. He is a classic act and so funny! Although he does not do his utmost for Charles as Charles sees it, he seems to be the only one in Charles' corner.
Charles, hands down. He is great when he is jealous and he is the best singer when he is drunk!
Yes it is. I have listen to this three times already!