In the third episode of "The Cleaner's" thrilling third season, entitled "The Committee," Greg Davies returns with his endearing portrayal of Paul Wickstead, alias Wicky, who stumbles into a community center brimming with drama and intrigue, a stark contrast to the serene haven one might envision for the elderly. This episode masterfully intertwines dark humor with slapstick comedy, transforming the mundane into a riotously hilarious spectacle.
The Drakefield Community Centre, where Wicky is tasked with tidying up after a minor mishap, is a far cry from a serene retreat. Instead, it's a boiling pot of rivalries and gossip, presided over by the harassed Margaret (Philippa Dunne) and an enigmatic, unseen Committee that holds all within its thrall.
From the moment Wicky arrives, his day spirals into chaos as he unwittingly blocks the entrance, offending Frank (Roger Sloman) and Maud (Sheila Reid). His efforts to smooth ruffled feathers only dig him deeper into trouble, as he accidentally usurps Maud's seat, inciting a tirade from Frank that only Margaret's timely intervention can quell. Yet, this is merely the prologue to Wicky's comedic trials.
As he awaits the conclusion of a specialist group's performance, Wicky's mere presence continues to disrupt the center's tranquility. His decision to bide his time in Maud's chair, only to repeat the error by inadvertently taking Frank's seat, stands as a comedic pinnacle, showcasing Davies' unparalleled prowess in physical comedy. The escalating tension is palpable, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats, anticipating Wicky's next socially awkward misstep with a mix of cringe and anticipation.
The situation reaches new heights of absurdity when Maud, in a fit of pique, confronts Wicky, only to plummet face-first into a pool of blood, her failing vision the culprit. This grim scenario is deftly spun into humor, leaving the audience in awe of Wicky's clumsy navigation through the treacherous social landscape of the community center, where every step seems fraught with peril.
Wicky's misadventures take a hilarious turn as he's mistakenly labeled a seasoned singer and thrust onto the spotlight, microphone firmly grasped. His impromptu serenade delights the audience, momentarily capturing their hearts with a charm that's undeniably endearing. However, the real test of his mettle lies ahead in his tangled encounters with the Committee's members, where patience and social finesse are put to the ultimate challenge.
As the episode unfolds, Wicky finds himself at the heart of the center's political web, navigating between Pauline's (Josephine Welcome) convoluted conspiracy theories surrounding Bill's (Derek Griffiths) mishap and Sue's (Paula Wilcox) elaborate revenge plot against Carol Davies for a fashion blunder. His earnest attempts to mediate only serve to entangle him further in the Committee's disfavor, eventually earning him a stern red card warning from the enigmatic group.
The episode's climax is a frenetic flurry of events, where Wicky, finally setting out to fulfill his cleaning duties, is met with the shocking revelation that his truck has been impounded for illegal parking. The ultimate twist, where Margaret's hand in Bill's fall is uncovered, casts a darkly ironic shadow over the proceedings, reminding us that even the simplest of tasks can be fraught with unexpected complications in Wicky's universe.
"The Committee" stands as a testament to "The Cleaner's" unparalleled ability to craft captivating narratives that intertwine humor with profound insights into the eccentricities of human nature. With Greg Davies at the helm and an exceptional ensemble cast navigating through a labyrinth of misunderstandings and mishaps, this episode is not just a must-watch for avid fans but an exquisite introduction to the chaotic yet endearing world of Wicky.
