Rob Brydon

Bryn West approaches other people with a hopeful eagerness in Gavin & Stacey (2007). Brydon makes that funny without treating him as someone we should dismiss. We warmed to him because the enthusiasm seems to come from wanting to join in. He is a good comic actor to have among louder personalities, provided the director leaves space for everyone.

That quieter acting was already important to Marion and Geoff (2000), the one-man mockumentary in which he played Keith Barret. It was one of his breakthrough programmes, alongside the black comedy Human Remains (2000). Keith's naivety matters to our view of Brydon: the later familiarity of the quick-witted panel-show host can obscure how much of his reputation began with an awkward character and comic sadness.

When Gavin & Stacey brought him a broader audience, it also supplied an ensemble that could accommodate his enthusiasm. Alison Steadman's Pam makes overreaction seem reasonable, Larry Lamb's Mick steadies the company, and Melanie Walters gives Gwen a useful softness. Director Christine Gernon keeps their comic habits distinct and does not turn each conversation into a competition. Brydon benefits from that discipline: Bryn can be eager without making the entire programme frantic. The central couple are less distinctive, but the supporting actors make this the clearest recommendation among his work we have reviewed.

The improvised exchanges with Steve Coogan in Michael Winterbottom's The Trip (2010) give his timing a different test, through conversations shaped by friendship and rivalry. Playing Rob Brydon, he has a partner capable of answering back and room to let an exchange develop. That freedom suits his timing, although the lighter presenting work suggests a reservation: the eagerness to entertain can begin to look like trying too hard.

Holmes & Watson (2018), in which he plays Inspector Lestrade, is a reason to check the title before committing to the familiar face. We found its strained accents and anachronisms wearying, and Brydon's presence is no reason to give it an evening. There is some relief from the supporting performances, but too little warmth between the leads to sustain the comedy. Start with Bryn, and allow the rest of the cast their share of the evening.