The 12 Days of Christine: Inside No 9’s emotional masterpiece

[@MMAGamblingTips]

Best show no one ever talks about. Most underrated program today.

[@WeeLin]

I know, right? It surprises me that no-one else seems to talk about it, especially when Black Mirror is so popular. Different shows, I know, but it proves there's a taste for British dark humour, anthologies and twists. Maybe the rest of the world will eventually catch on.

[@MMAGamblingTips]

WeeLin I am from the states and love this type of British work. I actually think on the whole, inside number nine has a better overall videography than Black Mirror which is one of my favorite shows ever. Almost every episode of Inside no.9 is worth viewing and some of them are absolute treasures. Indeed, like ‘ The 12 days of Christine’ as you presented here so perfectly. What’s more, I’ve not seen anyone who has talked about it that actually dislikes it. I think it is just that people do not realize there is a show out there that’s this great. If this was on Netflix it would be a smash hit. The popular KZbin channel ‘Inside a Mind’ did a feature on it labeled “A Show Better Than Black Mirror? of which everyone loved. Hopefully one day it will get it’s just dues. Right now it is a cult favorite. I know my jaw was on the floor several times! BTW: did you watch IN9 Live episode? I heard it was really good but I didn’t see it live. Can you only view it live or can you still watch it and get the same affect on replay? Thanks if you know and awesome work here!

[@ellasoniquelove1374]

Insidious Vidz the thing about the live episode is there is a reason it was live, which you’ll see if you watch it. it’s still a good story so i guess it’s just about worth watching

[@MMAGamblingTips]

Ella Keavy Is it something that is really worth watching you think? Speaking of, what app do you use to watch all of these one? Do you know? Does BritBox have them all? I’m from the states.

[@ellasoniquelove1374]

Insidious Vidz it’s on uk netflix if you have a vpn, might be on us too. it’s definitely on britbox!

[@morphman86]

Most of the time, I'm a manly man. When Christine said "I know what this is now", I was not. There are very few times TV has brought me to tears, the only other time I can remember was when I had hormones running through me during puberty, I had just lost a family member and I saw an overly emotional scene in a film. But 12 Days of Christine managed to do it with that one line!

[@WeeLin]

Such is the combined power of Steve and Reece's writing and Sheridan Smith's acting talent. Any one look or word from her in that scene can destroy me.

[@junedanieltamor9071]

Nobody: This comment: *"i'M a MaNLy MaN"*

[@morphman86]

@@junedanieltamor9071 2017 called, they want their meme back

[@junedanieltamor9071]

@@morphman86 well yeah I hate that meme too but it fits. 😬

[@rogernesmith2279]

The actress did a wonderful job in gaining the audience's favor and having them "root" for her from the very beginning, which caused the waterworks to flood at the end.

[@WeeLin]

Sheridan Smith is just so damn likeable. I knew this would be a good episode as soon as I knew who was in it. She was also in The Widower with Reece Shearsmith, and I felt really sorry for her character in that one too.

[@IvanMiletic]

Easily the most emotional piece of television I've ever watched. It was even more emotional, since I missed all the clues, so the ending caught me, completely, off guard.

[@WeeLin]

I went in completely the wrong direction, thinking "these must be ghosts" when The Stranger and later Ernie appeared. That'd be quite typical of them too, seeing as they both seem to love ghost and horror stories. Completely threw me off guard. Even if it hadn't, I don't think I would've been prepared for that ending.

[@IvanMiletic]

Reece and Steve are absolutely brilliant. I was actually really glad that I didn't see it coming, since it wouldn't have been the same, had I suspected something like that. Also, made me realize that it was probably better, at least for me, to not even attempt to "collect" clues and try to guess what is gonna happen. I think the whole experience is way better when you're watching completely clueless. For me, guessing the ending and being right kind of ruins the whole thing.

[@glamdolly30]

@@IvanMiletic I recently watched a live Q&A with Reece Shearsmith, in which he talked about the challenge of staying one step ahead of modern audiences. He said viewers today are incredibly sophisticated - they've seen it all before and are very hard to wrong-foot. It's always a huge challenge when he sits down to write with Steve Pemberton, to come up with an original final plot twist, that won't have been predicted by even one of their smart-arse viewers! He talked about loving 'Tales of the Unexpected' as a kid, and the fact the quality of the tales was patchy. By the final series, he said, it deteriorated so badly it became 'Tales of the Not Very Unexpected At All'! He and SP were very anxious not to let 'Inside Number Nine' become similarly disappointing. I think the quality and originality of their 'Number 9 scripts is extraordinary - and for my money, this episode has the most left-field, astonishing and profound conclusion they've ever crafted. It's an overused word I know, but what the Hell I'm gonna use it - they are geniuses!

[@silvasnow3861]

I was exactly the same.... I'm a 45 year old man and when it hit me I was in floods of tears.... Amazing

[@EditedAF987]

Am I the only one that can hear the sound of a car indicator in the music for this video?

[@WeeLin]

Well spotted! Yes, the music was directly inspired by the episode, and there's a piano note that stands in for the car door alarm, which is heard during the introduction and in each of the transitions between Christine's memories.

[@Superdelphinus]

Christian Henson is the guy who composed most of the music for this - he has a great KZbin channel where he talks a lot about the shows he’s done, search it up!

[@octavianblackthorn5106]

"Jack! Mummy's going now." Absolute masterpiece. That one line really broke me.

[@WeeLin]

Me too! I think because it feels like such a normal, everyday thing to say, but we've only just realised the weight behind it.

[@EVERTONFC.]

Me too. Clever.

[@sarahmason1572]

Oh thanks (!) I only had to read that line and now I'm crying 😂

[@belugatoons]

This has to be my favourite Number 9 episode. I cry every time I watch it.

[@WeeLin]

Me too. I cried a lot while researching this.

[@wilfdraws2227]

It’s probably a testament to the skill involved in this episode that your recap is enough to bring back the emotions experienced whilst watching it. Although it will never have quite the same ‘gut punch’ reaction as the first time I watched it this episode remains a high spot in tv. Like you said in the video, the acting, script and direction just come together perfectly. Ironically I always felt repeat watching are like a car crash, you know what’s coming yet cannot look away, and the ending still hits you..

[@WeeLin]

I was welling up just writing the recaps, because that's how strong the emotional impact was for me! And yes, you can't look away from the crash, just like you can't avoid watching till the end, even when you know what's coming.

[@anaccount8474]

This isn't just the best episode of Inside No 9, it's one of the best pieces of TV ever made. It absolutely floored me the first time I saw it.

[@IntimateRush]

This is the best review I’ve watched on here. Loads is not seen or realised. And yes. One of the greatest 30 minutes of tv ever written.

[@WeeLin]

I've not even covered everything, or the video might have been 14 hours long! Not bad for a half hour episode. I kept finding something new every time I watched (and believe me, I watched it a lot!)

[@no-oneman.4140]

How this feat of television did not win any awards is beyond me. When you think about the many oscars given to far less talent that is on display here is mind boggling. Sheridan, Steve and Reece I absolutely salute you and everyone else involved in what is the greatest television I have and probably will ever see.

[@WeeLin]

12 Days of Christine deserved all the awards! Thankfully IN9 hasn't been overlooked all the time - if you haven't seen Steve Pemberton's BAFTA acceptance speech for Bernie Clifton's Dressing Room then I'd highly recommend looking it up. It's a really heartwarming moment, and the award was so well-deserved.

[@no-oneman.4140]

@@WeeLin - thank you, just watched it, the hug between them was just lovely. What talent.

[@nicolesimms4959]

This one got me big time, I'd just got into Inside No 9 and was NOT expecting to be reduced to tears, proper caught me off guard, brilliant.

[@WeeLin]

Even when I know what happens, I'm still not ready for that ending. Completely caught me off guard first time and left me a blubbering mess.

[@charliekane135]

This episode freaked me out a bit. Super sinister. Well done Shearsmith and Pemberton. First class writing

[@patrickobrien9481]

This episode is an absolute tour de force for the entire series...I don't think I've ever shed any tears, yet alone repeated tears each time I see this...it's an incredible masterpiece and not only testament to Reece and Steve's acting/writing but a sobering insight into the talent of Sheridan Smith..this performance is really and honestly second to none

[@josemaria8177]

This episode, especially the parts where we see a relationship die, always gave me strong kitchen sink realism vibes. It stuck me as something that Ken Loach could have directed in the 60s or 70s. That, for me at least, grounded the entire episode in this feeling of almost knowing Christine personally. I think that's why it hits you so hard in the final twist. You're not seeing a macabre killing or a tragically funny death, you're seeing an average working class woman who had a hard life grasping for life trying to protect her son. That just hits me differently from the rest of the series

[@drewcampbell7702]

Beautifully crafted review. Really feel a deeper appreciation of what is a truly magnificent piece of television drama. Thank you.

[@WeeLin]

You're very welcome. Hearing things like this is what makes me want to keep making videos.

[@MaskedKittyYT]

omfg i wasn’t expecting this today but i’m super happy to see this, after the long day i’ve had i’ve needed a good wind down with you and inside number nine yet again ^^

[@WeeLin]

Sorry to hear that - it's been a long day for many of us. But at least we all have No 9 for some much-needed catharsis. Thanks

[@MaskedKittyYT]

WeeLin no problem, and i’ve finally been able to move past what had happened, it was my oldest cat, she had passed a week before your video on this episode came out, she had an infection that started to affect her breathing and had to be put down, she’d been in my life as long as i can remember until last year, she was honestly the best cat i could’ve ever asked for and in a small way i felt like i lost a part of myself when she had to go back last year, she’s actually my youtube icon too, your videos did help me through it and gave me a form of catharsis that i needed to keep going and honestly i wanna say thanks, also love your current coverage of the season 5 episodes no matter how short they may be, can’t wait for more content from you, i also happened to notice you also mentioned persona 5 too, i’d kill to know more of your thoughts on that to tell the truth. also id like to apologize for it taking me so long to reply to your comment, it took me a while to move past her being gone tbh. me and that cat were as close as can be, you know. hell i’d consider her an older sister, even if she was a pet to everybody else, she was family to me.

[@MaskedKittyYT]

WeeLin oh also i’d just like to thank you for making a review of the inside number nine halloween special, it it wasn’t for that i wouldn’t have found this show, along with a couple others that you’ve mentioned in another video, their the best shows i’ve watched in quite a while ^^ i gotta admit too i’m glad i ran into this channel and found such great shows to watch through an app i was also recommended on this channel by another commenter. i dunno if you’ve heard of it but it’s an app called britbox, really helpful for us american watchers of inside number 9 and many others :)

[@delbobs123]

Thank you for this, one of my most favourite pieces of television.

[@WeeLin]

Thanks - mine too!

[@TheCoggie]

this episode always gives me goosebumps. Even this video managed it! hurts my heart. 10/10 would recommend

[@WeeLin]

Even talking about it has that effect - it's just that powerful. And I'm still proud I managed to not cry while reading this script.

[@jonstones6204]

Thanks for the early Christmas present, I was looking to this video and you didn't disappoint, great work as usual! This is my favourite No9 episode and in my opinion one the finest bits of television ever produced. I too originally thought Reece's character was the ghost of the ex boyfriend, that misdirect is genius and I think really helped keep the actual twist such a devastating shock when I first watched it. Look forward to more videos in 2020, have a great Christmas!

[@WeeLin]

You too! And I guess it wasn't just me who thought Reece was the boyfriend's ghost. They knew what they were doing!

[@ScooterSkillsYolo]

What a fucking true work of art this episode is

[@WeeLin]

It's incredible. It seems a bit trendy among the fanbase at the moment to call it "overrated", but it's just so seamlessly put together, beautifully acted and masterfully shot. Even if you're not a fan of emotional dramas, or you saw the twist coming, you have to respect the craft.

[@auron2x]

A wonderful analysis. If you ever needed something to remind someone that lifes too short, show them this. It hits home so quickly.

[@alexc9985]

I can't watch this episode too often because it actually terrifies me

[@WeeLin]

That it can all be over so quickly really puts things into perspective. I try to think of that in a positive way, and it does help encourage me to get things done and not be afraid to put myself out there (like making this channel, for example!)

[@bill-zv3gh]

Sheridan Smith gives the best acting performance I've seen in any genre on the TV. Flawless and beautiful

[@WeeLin]

How she didn't get a Bafta for this, I'll never know.

[@OfficialFingazMC]

By far the best episode. I'm in love with Sheridan and she's an amazing actor! Personally I think it's the best half an hour of telly ever. And I cried like a baba as did my misses.

[@WeeLin]

Sheridan is wonderful - I can't imagine another actor who could have played the part so perfectly. I cry every time.

[@maskedladyrobber]

Wonderful analysis of what I think is the greatest half-hour in British TV history.

[@WeeLin]

Thanks. And you could be right, at least I can't think of a more perfect half-hour.

[@cerysowen7575]

This episode was possibly my favourite but this alalysis has made it 10x better for me. This alalysis alone made me cry let alone the actual episode itself.

[@WeeLin]

Thank you. And I don't mind saying, I even got tears in my eyes writing it.

[@cerysowen7575]

Everytime I watch this episode, I come back to this exceptional analysis. I'm still in complete awe of every detail. Can't wait for the new series!

[@milesmurphree2364]

"This is meant to be a happy memory"

[@markb2707]

Inside No9 is such a great series. This is episode is very emotional, it's making me want to cry thinking about it...

[@MOAMa23]

That episode is what got me emotional and made me fall in love with this show. It really makes you cherish the time you have.

[@WeeLin]

That's the message I like to take from it too.

[@NidgeOSullivan]

Ah Jesus, I was balling crying the first time I saw this, then I recently watched the episode commentary by Reece and Steve and was balling again and now watching your excellent examination I'm balling again. I've said it before but this episode truly is the most powerful 30 mins of drama ever put down onto film. Incredible stuff.

[@WeeLin]

If it makes you feel any better, I've cried every single time I've watched the episode and I even found myself welling up while writing this script. I'm amazed I got through the recording with no tears.

[@NidgeOSullivan]

@@WeeLin we know it inside out yet still cry, that is how perfect this episode is. Of course the writing is spot on, but the direction and the acting really pulled this one into a different realm.

[@Samcole0408]

Yess I have been waiting for this upload it's a great episode

[@WeeLin]

Hope it was worth the wait! It's my favourite episode.

[@paulflint6254]

It's still the best one, it makes me cry every time I watch it. Rewatching a lot of the episodes, it's such a testament to how good Inside no 9 is that it's always stays watchable.

[@tonybates7870]

The greatest episode of a great series. I'll be finding new things in this for years.

[@lordofgeese2739]

Just watching this video made me burst into tears , that's gotta say something about how good this episode is.

[@WeeLin]

I was welling up even just writing the script and remember the key moments. Such a powerful episode.

[@lordofgeese2739]

@@WeeLin Couldn't agree more , it most definitely is an emotional masterpiece.

[@meverly4133]

Shortly before I put my five year old to bed, he had an uncharacteristic meltdown because he didn't want me to die one day and leave him all alone. We went back and forth for a half hour, with me trying to explain death and him crying and asking increasingly distressed questions, ultimately culminating with me telling him that I'd do my best to live for 140 years. I was so emotionally drained that I decided to stay up a little bit late and watch an episode of Inside No. 9, which happened to be this episode. I am so utterly wrecked right now.

[@AliSubhi-xs4rn]

12 Days Of Christine is probably my favorite episode of any TV series ever. Thank you for not only trying to bring more eyes to the magnificent Inside No9, but also analyze/overanalyze 😅 its themes and metaphors. Excellent work!

[@paulquinn7980]

This is a great episode I just can’t get enough of inside number 9 Series 5 is now on.Anybody watching the league of gentlemen I give that 9 out of nine

[@WeeLin]

I've got a playlist of series 5 reviews on the channel - I upload each one the day after the episode airs. And I LOVE The League of Gentlemen, which was where I first noticed Steve and Reece. It's still one of my favourite shows ever.

[@charlene2459]

Watched the episode today. It actually brought me to tears, seeing her downfall and confusion, as well as her death.

[@WeeLin]

It still brings me to tears every time.

[@neo866]

I skipped past this when it first came out, i can't remember why but it just didn't sound as interesting as some of the other episodes so left it till last (i like to binge-watch whole series at once) Then i watched it and was genuinely shook at how emotional it was, nearly had a grown man blubbing ha ha!! Love your videos by the way

[@WeeLin]

Thanks! No shame in blubbing at the end of Christine - we've all been there!

[@accidentalparadox]

Excellent analysis and I’m so happy that this series is getting some love and attention - thank you for all the videos!

[@WeeLin]

You're welcome! I love that the show is getting more attention now.

[@ellenigma2099]

What was most poignant was what Sheridan was going through in real life with her own father. Also, your analysis moved me.

[@WeeLin]

I had no idea about that - what happened to her father? Sheridan's performance was outstanding - I'm so sorry if she was going through a difficult time when this was filmed. Also thanks, and I'm so happy you found my video moving!

[@ellenigma2099]

@@WeeLin I am not sure if this episode was made while her dad being ill, but it was in the press a lot that her father was ill and understandably, she was not coping well. He has since passed away but she is now a mother and doing well. These episodes really make you warm to the characters to the point there is a bit of a crossover and you empathise with their real lives because they are such good actors. I felt like this when I watched the episode called Bernie Clifton's Dressing room; based on a double act. Which Shearsmith and Pemberton are in a sense.

[@WeeLin]

@@ellenigma2099 Steve has said he wants the song "Tears of Laughter" played at his own funeral, and that thought is too beautiful and sad for me to handle.

[@angusetkind503]

Only just found this series I can't believe ive never seen these! This episode was breath taking leaving me thinking about it all night !

[@WeeLin]

It's my favourite episode, and it always leaves me thinking too! If you're getting into No 9 then I've got more videos on this channel (flagged for spoilers, if there are any). Hope you enjoy the rest of the series, and hope to see you back!

[@angusetkind503]

@@WeeLin I've seen all of them now ! Great analysis of each video always pointing something out I never originally notice! Just like the theory about the shoe episode about it being the murder of his daughter instead of the murder of ted that one blew my head off !!

[@WeeLin]

@@angusetkind503 I like how that's become quite a popular theory - it wasn't the intention, but it fits perfectly. And it's so very grim!

[@angusetkind503]

@@WeeLin did the writers comfirm it wasn't the intention? Because if they meant to include the double meaning , man that's clever!

[@WeeLin]

​@@angusetkind503 I knew from some descriptions I found of deleted scenes that Diddle Diddle Dumpling originally ended with Ted being the victim and Sally survived. However, it was changed to a more ambiguous ending. I don't know how deliberate it was at the time (of if they even had the possibility of Sally's murder in mind), but Reece has since commented that the daughter being killed is a valid way to read the episode. That's about a close as I can get to an answer.

[@ambers4075]

I forgot how much I cried watching this episode, now crying watching this video ahaha. Loved listening to your take on this episode

[@WeeLin]

Thanks! Such a beautiful episode, isn't it?

[@ambers4075]

@@WeeLin it's probably one of my favourite, definitely one I'm showing all my friends right now due to the time of year! Perfect for a one off episode to watch

[@CalumnMcAulay]

Profoundly moving episode... The acting the music and obviously the narrative which culminated in an ending that left me speechless

[@WeeLin]

I love it, every aspect and every single moment. So much that praising it took longer than the actual episode's runtime.

[@CiceroLounge]

It's a beautiful peice of drama. So totally moving.

[@WeeLin]

I think it's the first piece of pure drama they've ever done. They've always been capable of it - you can see dramatic and emotional moments in League of Gentlemen and Psychoville, even though it's being performed by such weird characters. I'm glad they were bold enough to play this one straight.

[@GavTatu]

had me in floods of tears this one !

[@WeeLin]

Me too, every single time!

[@chadczternastek]

Thank you for this. Apparently I missed quite a few things and you pointed them out perfectly. What a great show. That 29 minute episode was better than any TV I watched in the last few years. Those two writers are brilliant. The first episode has me laughing and loving the fact there are quite a few I still get to watch. I haven't seen them but it's gonna be hard to top this.

[@scotexscarrier8461]

best episode of all 8 seasons . 30mins of sad brilliance, really great stuff

[@brendandax]

Just saw the episode and wanted an in depth review and you delivered! Wonderful episode - I can't stop thinking about it. Great essay.

[@Faerie_Kim]

It's a work of beauty and a true piece of art

[@WeeLin]

I agree - I think it's the most beautiful thing they've ever written.

[@kp6007]

I must have watched this episode 5 times now, and the bit where she realised her life is flashing before her eyes gets me every time. I love this show but this is the episode I tell people to watch first. It breaks me in half.

[@WeeLin]

It still gets me every single time. She's such a wonderful actress.

[@SD-fb7ku]

I feel pretty proud of myself. Managed to get 25 minutes into your analysis before I started crying.

[@WeeLin]

That's about as far as I usually get into the episode without doing the same.

[@SD-fb7ku]

@@WeeLin 😊

[@dedalus167]

Amazing and very moving video, thank you so much for sharing. Merry Christmas for you too!

[@WeeLin]

Thank you so much! It's one of the most moving pieces of television I've ever watched, and I just have to share that with as many people as possible.

[@ashly-5282]

God. I’m actually crying. I haven’t really seen the episode before. Just this explanation. I’m really crying. My god this episode is powerful.

[@WeeLin]

You should see it in full - honestly, it's still one of the most beautiful pieces of television I've ever watched.

[@gracecarroll59]

thank you for such a lovely analysis, enjoy your Christmas break x

[@WeeLin]

Thanks, and merry Christmas to you too!

[@alanrobertson3172]

Your video is an excellent summary and analysis of a masterpiece.

[@WeeLin]

Thanks so much. It's actually hard to express in words just how wonderful this episode was and how much it affected me.

[@JB-rl4ik]

When they give her the photo album, her friend says "We all chipped in", because they all took part in her life. 😭

[@nickcouldry231]

What a brilliant analysis of such a brilliant piece of television - thank you WeeLin! Watching this I wondered if the creaking of bedsprings in the July segment foreshadows Adam pressing down on the suitcase to fit everything in while it's on the bed in August?

[@WeeLin]

I think it does two things - the transition of one scene to the other, but also the suspicion at the back of her mind that "something else" might be causing the bedsprings to creak. It's not shown in the final cut of the episode, but her husband did end up leaving her for the woman he brought to the party in July, so her mind might have made that connection too.

[@Yevdokiya]

I could not bear the suspense in this episode!!! I had to pause a couple times during the egg scene, and during the blindfolded scene I got so scared I had to stop and read the spoiler. Truly an incredible, heartbreaking piece of television that was so well crafted that I couldn't survive it without cheating.

[@WeeLin]

It really feels like it's setting you up for a horror (and many of their episodes do), but instead they gave us one of the most beautiful ending scenes ever made for television. Even if you know what happens, nothing can prepare you for the devastating acting performance of Sheridan Smith.

[@Yevdokiya]

@@WeeLin Yes, she was truly outstanding. I already watched the episode again, and I can't stop thinking about it.

[@kemalziya]

This episode is a master class!

[@WeeLin]

It just comes together so perfectly and hits you right in the heart. I love it.

[@colinrumford2265]

Great synopsis of the best half hour of tv ever.

[@cScottD]

Great analysis of a great episode of a great show!

[@WeeLin]

Thanks so much. I'm a huge fan of the show (as you might have guessed from my other videos), but this episode is my favourite.

[@jmatthews4064]

Diddle diddle dumpling is probably one of my most wanted analysis videos. Just the amount of theorising I've done and gone to see others opinions and it isn't there :p

[@WeeLin]

I've actually done an analysis of Diddle Diddle Dumpling before in my "Most disturbing episodes" series. It's right at the start of part 2. And yes, I also had some theories about that particular episode! You can find it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/raO9nH1viNuei6s

[@jmatthews4064]

@@WeeLin my theory initially was he killed the guy that got the shoe (I can't remember his name too well). But it changed to him killing the daughter as he said "they need to be together"

[@lemonlazer5687]

This and to have and to hold are the two hardest to watch on repeat. Masterpieces and perfect tragedies. Although loves great adventure manages to get the most tears out of me. Ha.

[@Phoenix2312]

@WeeLin UPDATE - My dear darling daughter came around today with my little Grand child... After a little Avril Lavigne, We all sat back to continue watching Inside No.9 on Netflix... And we finally hit season 2... NIAGRA BLOODY FALLS!!! I AM NOT AHSAMED! I CRIED!!! JESUS IT HITS HARD!!!

[@WeeLin]

Wow, that's how you ramp an already emotional day right up to 11! I bawled my eyes out first time. In fact, I STILL cry every time I see it. There's no shame in crying out loud at this one, and frankly I'd be suspicious of anyone who didn't!

[@Phoenix2312]

@@WeeLin Well, come that weekend - I watched it again with my sister... NIAGARA FALLS from both of us!!!! Yeah its amazing! It really is... SO GLAD I finally took the plunge and watched... If the BBC would stop pissing about and commission a season every year - I might actually start bothering to watch TV again and have a TV License... At the moment I either Stream, Watch DVD or play games... I am not paying £150 a year for a service I dont use!

[@Dolphinsz]

This was absolutely powerful

[@cadencef.wainscoting1268]

Wonderful analysis, Wee Lin. Also Sheridan Smith could easily be related to Steve Pemb. Same face!😯😯

[@WeeLin]

They do have similar features, don't they? I'd love to see them work together again, maybe as members of the same family. But they also play great BFFs - if I could hang out with any No 9 characters, it would be them at the Hallowe'en party!

[@cadencef.wainscoting1268]

@@WeeLin Thank you for this channel! I love your critiques! ❤

[@WeeLin]

@@cadencef.wainscoting1268 Aww, thank you!

[@ashisreallytired9006]

Day 7, 21st July 2009, was the day of my fifth birthday. That made me oddly excited for some reason

[@WeeLin]

Funny how that happens. And I guess that means you share a birthday with Christine.

[@Alex-cw3rz]

Brilliant Video

[@WeeLin]

Thank you!

[@sandraweilbrenner67]

This episode hurt my heart.

[@WeeLin]

Mine too, every time.

[@chrisatkins6711]

No matter how many times I've seen this episode, I still end up blubbing like a schoolgirl.A work of televisual genius from an outstanding cast and writers.

[@Phoenix2312]

@WeeLin Been while since I watched any of your videos... Thank you by the way for introducing me to the masterpiece that is Inside No. 9... But I saw this video uploaded (OK I am late! but Still... ) and I have STOPPED THE VIDEO at 0:00 just so I can say this... You know that a Masterpiece has been created when a Review / Essay of the episode is LONGER THAN THE EPISODE ITSELF! I am looking forward to this... And hell, I am a simple man if nothing else... Half an hour of that accent of yours... BLISS!!! (I am old and I have a thing for accents! SUE ME!!! LMAO!) 10:08 I have deliberately avoided this episode I must be honest... So I have not seen it yet... But if your Essay is anything to go by... Kleenex are going to make a LOT OF F**KING MONEY! If your Essay is getting to me and making me want to cry... My Neighbour downstairs had better call teh landlord as there is going to be Water Damage and this time not form me busting my Washing Machine!!! :( Conclusion: Don't be sorry for getting mushy! I should be sorry for not going and getting some Tissues!!! I wish I was lying - but Genuinely your Essay got to me hard! I am actually crying... I am going to need a lot when I finally watch teh episode aren't I? And yeah... Thats why I have avoided this episode... Seems as I am getting older, Episodes like this one have a far greater effect on me! I am not ashamed to cry... Just, Well... I try to avoid it if I can...

[@WeeLin]

That's so true! The fact this video is longer than the episode speaks volumes about the love that went into making the original. And I can safely say that knowing the ending doesn't stop the crying (I watched it so many times while doing my research, and I lost it every single time). I just hope I haven't spoiled it too much for you. But no, there's absolutely no shame in crying at this episode - just make sure you have enough tissues at the ready!

[@Phoenix2312]

@@WeeLin LOL! Better see my comment today my dear... You spoiled NOTHING! I am not a Crier these days (I was too much of a crybaby when I was a child!) - But there are some things that always hit you... For me, Its E.T: The Extra Terrestrial, Bicentennial Man and now I can add this one episode to the list!

[@chattygamer8982]

I think the phone call on bonfire night was the accident phone call, ‘there’s been an accident..Jack is fine’ This episode will stay with me 😪

[@WeeLin]

I love how they wrote that entire scene. Maybe someone else was making that phonecall at the time, or maybe Christine was thinking "we need to call Adam", so that's what she does in her mind. The way that Christine panics about Jack being hurt before realising that she's actually the one who's been injured (by the sparkler/car crash) says a lot. It's like she can't let go until she knows that Jack is safe. Absolutely heartbreaking.

[@Doc_Filth]

Jack starting school on a Thursday shouldn’t be taken, in itself, as a sign of the timeline being wobbly. In the 80s and early 90s, at least, it was a matter of routine that school years in England started on an irregular day of the week.

[@WeeLin]

Really? That's interesting. I can't even remember what day I started school - I just assumed I started on a Monday (I grew up in Scotland, so the school calendars would have been a bit different - the term starts about two weeks earlier, for instance). Plus I get the feeling I might have done some serious overthinking when it came to the timelines!

[@Doc_Filth]

@@WeeLin Yeah, I can remember, as a specific instance, that my first term at secondary school (in 1989) started on a Thursday, and I didn't see this as anything unusual at the time, so I it can't have been particularly anomalous. At the very least, they would quite often, IIRC, use the Monday of the first week of term as a teacher training day, and it may well have been the case that whatever "training" was necessary at the start of the school year would then have been extended into extra days.

[@cheerfulsatanist]

His backpack was also covered in emergency vehicles

[@WeeLin]

It was! So many subtle nods to what's happening in the real world.

[@StuHolland]

This episode ruined me. Great analysis!

[@WeeLin]

It's broken me more times than I can count. Thanks!

[@newageprometheus]

I love this video analysis, especially the music! I don't suppose you know if it can be downloaded? (I'm assuming it was a commission, but wanted to ask in hope)

[@bbaaddnnaamm]

Your analysis I’d good n deep!

[@philjones45]

A beautiful piece of work Weelin. I hope you've got writing or script work from your videos here on KZbin. Take care.

[@WeeLin]

Thanks - I actually have managed to get a bit of work based off these videos, but even if I didn't I'd still enjoy making them.

[@JM-gd3hr]

The colors red, teal/green, and yellow are repeated throughout her memories, and are the three colors at the accident site.

[@WeeLin]

And now I need to watch it again! I noticed the red colour quite a bit, but not the others.

[@robertbarker5981]

Colours one might see in a hospital

[@Raccoon143]

And Christine’s manicure is always red….

[@stevegoodson9022]

"I don't want the present" may be my favourite line from any modern tv episode. Didn't catch a lot of the clues and double meanings on my first watch, but I did catch the meaning of that line and it broke me, welling up now just thinking about it.

[@WeeLin]

Me too. There are so many double meanings and realisations that broke my heart when I became aware of them. I think the hardest one for me was when I realised that she'd never be able to say goodbye to her family in real life.

[@glamdolly30]

@@WeeLin That's the measure of brilliant writing like 'Inside Number Nine' - the scripts are so clever and multi layered they actually improve with repeated viewings! I found this one almost unbearably moving, especially watching it after the premature death of a friend. I think we have all wondered what our final moments will be like - and how death was experienced by loved ones who've gone before us. The 'life flashing before you' thing is a cliché of course, but it's perfectly feasible. In certain circumstances (like a traumatic accident) your consciousness would hit many different levels and you'd have all kinds of dreams and recollections from many different stages of your life. It's an intriguing thought, but also an unsettling one! The big mystery that is only revealed to us at the point of no return.

[@hatredatheart388]

why doesn't she want it?

[@glamdolly30]

@@hatredatheart388 It's the double meaning of 'the present' ie present as in Christmas gift, and present as in right now, when she realises she is, in fact, dying. It's a tragic moment of realisation for her and the viewers, that she is facing the end of her life and saying goodbye to her loved ones.

[@hatredatheart388]

@@glamdolly30 omg thank you! couldnt for the life of me figure it out :)

[@SiLatics56]

Every time I watch this I always go to pieces when she says the line "It's almost as if my life is flashing .... (before my eyes)" - don't think she actually delivers the line fully as it's then that the full realisation hits her. Heartbreaking beyond words.

[@WeeLin]

She can't even bring herself to say it out loud, which somehow makes it even more powerful.

[@pdrg]

It's such a punch to the gut.

[@jgr2637]

I like to think Ernie comforting her is symbolic as she is going to be with her father at the end of the episode

[@WeeLin]

There's something extra comforting about that thought. I also imagine Jack will grow up very close to his grandmother. His dad left home, then he saw his mum passing. Marion lost her husband and her daughter in the space of a few years (and I got the impression that Christine was an only child). They'll need each other from now on.

[@NobleCloverVA]

@@WeeLin Who knows, maybe Jack’s dad will try and help out Marion with raising him.

[@WordUnheard]

I discovered this show for the first time last week. Earlier this month, I found out that I have a brain tumor. Glioma, it's called. 80% chance of it being malignant. On the 5th and 6th of this month, I had a team of neurosurgeons in my brain, cutting out as much of the tumor as they could. This was the first episode I watched, because the video that mentioned this series said it was one of, if not THE best episode in the entire series. I was tearing up all throughout the episode, and didn't see the ending coming at all. It was so beautifully done, and really hit close to home. I've had strange instances happen to me over the past few months that truly make me question if a similar incident is happening to me. I'm not a religious person, nor do I believe in the supernatural. But something very strange is going on, and I know that it's not the tumor talking. I love your videos covering this amazing series, and you have such a pleasant voice. Going to bed, but I will definitely return to finish this video tomorrow.

[@WeeLin]

I am so sorry to hear what you've been through. It's an awful thing to happen - a long time ago, I lost someone I deeply cared about to a brain tumour. I still remember what she went through and what it did to her. I imagine this episode must have hit really close to home for you in many ways. I really hope your treatment goes well and that you can make a full recovery. Stay strong x

[@WordUnheard]

@@WeeLin Thank you for the kind words. As odd as it may seem, the tumor has only improved my mindset. Before, I was riddled with depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidal thoughts, and anger, to name a few. Once I found out about the tumor, hell even BEFORE I found out (when I passed out for nearly an hour, hit the floor, and apparently had a seizure, I felt...different. It was as if a light had switched on in my mind. Once I found out about the tumor, all of this negative mental and emotional damage I've carried with me for all these years all but vanished. The impossibly huge problems in my life seemed minuscule, by comparison. No matter the outcome, I'm fine with it. The only thing I'm not fine with is the possibility of not being able to see my baby girl not grow up. I want to be with her for as long as possible. But we only have so much control in our lives. To have found this series, and this particular episode, days after being released from the hospital...I saw it from a perspective I never thought existed. It was so beautifully done, and I love your coverage of this amazing series.

[@WordUnheard]

@@WeeLin Also, I'm so sorry to hear that you lost someone you cared about to a brain tumor. Cancer is the worst, and it doesn't discriminate. Young, old, healthy, sick, it doesn't care. I've been physically healthy in all of my 42 years. Then I passed out on the 29th of December, only to find out that it was because of a tumor, on the 3rd of this year. However, I wouldn't change this newfound love of life and perspective for anything in the world. Had it not happened, I would still be sitting here, depressed, full of anxiety, thoughts of suicide swimming around my mind. It's a bit ironic, I suppose. I wish you the very best, and I look forward to watching the rest of your videos. Your voice. Sigh. You should read audio-books for a living.

[@glamdolly30]

I was very moved by your words. This must be a strange and difficult time, but it sounds like you are facing each day with the right attitude for a speedy recovery. You'll be in my thoughts - sending you love and strength. Oh and PS, please seek out some of Reece & Steve's more comedic work because this episode must have been pretty damn emotional after what you've just been through! A few laughs will I'm sure be just what the doctor ordered. Big hug, and all the very best for 2020. XXX

[@WordUnheard]

@@glamdolly30 Thank you. That really means a lot to me. I'll find out this Friday whether or not my tumor is a glioblastoma. If it is, I'm looking at twelve months, maybe a few more, and that's if I choose chemo and radiation treatment, which I would not. I don't fear death. I mean, we all die, but the majority of us don't get a head's up as to when that will be. I would never endure a treatment that would make me leave this world as a hollowed-out husk of a human being. We only exist as memories after we're gone, and I'd prefer not to exist as sad and depressing memories. Thanks again for the positive thoughts you've sent my way. I'll be sure to leave a comment and an update in the next few days. Oh, and I've seen quite a few episodes of Inside No. 9, since I left my first message. Among the episodes I liked the most were A Quiet Night In, Once Removed, Cold Comfort, The Riddle of the Sphinx, The Devil In Christmas, Sardines, Private View, and Bernie Clifton's Dressing Room. I'll have watched them all soon, and I'll watch Psychoville next. I love Shearsmith and Pemberton. Their writing and acting are so great, with Bernie Clifton's Dressing Room being the best episode they've acted in. I didn't see that ending coming, either.

[@LovelyRuthie]

Cried. Cried when I watched it first time & every time since. It's my favourite episode of No.9 & I'd say the best half-hour of television possibly of all time. My pet theory is that Steve was responsible for the more emotional aspects of the episode & that Reece supplied the horror. Whether that's the case or not, I could imagine the pair of them telling the other to ease back on the maudlin/terror. The balance was perfect, however, as was the casting. I've really enjoyed all your videos on No.9 particularly & I do hope to watch more once series 5 is out there. In terms of future content, I'd be really interested to see you look at The Cornetto Trilogy (if that's your bag) or horror/thriller movies that have been re-made - a sort of compare & contrast, or treatments of a particular writer's work like King or Herbert. Basically, stuff I'd love to do if I wasn't incredibly lazy ;)

[@WeeLin]

It definitely feels like it with the way they were cast, with Reece as the horror figure and Steve as the compassionate best friend (Bobby might be one of my favourite No 9 side characters). Cornetto Trilogy would most certainly be my bag (Shaun of the Dead would be my personal favourite), and I do love me some Stephen King adaptations, for better or worse! I'm considering a Shining/Doctor Sleep video at some point. I've not seen the recent version of Carrie, but I love the old De Palma film. As for IT, they made some... weird decisions in the recent part 2 film, so many that I've probably forgotten about half of them by now. So, plenty of ideas there.

[@glamdolly30]

@@WeeLin Are you a fan of the classic 1970s horror movies, eg the Amicus anthologies 'Tales from the Crypt' and 'From Beyond the Grave'? Apologies for jumping in - I just discovered your channel tonight thanks to this video and will definitely be watching more. I'm hoping you appreciate the same sort of quirky, vintage entertainment I love, I like your style!

[@WeeLin]

@@glamdolly30 You know, I've been meaning to get into the classic horror anthologies but am never sure where to start. Thanks for the suggestions, and responses!

[@glamdolly30]

@@WeeLin My pleasure. If you should decide to look at British horror movies, the Amicus anthologies are a great place to start. Mark Gatiss discussed them on his excellent BBC3 'History of Horror' series. I'm the same age as the guys, and share their love of those quirky, classic horrors which we grew up on and watched as kids in secret on black & white portable tellies in our bedrooms, lol! The influence of British horror is obvious across their work, especially 'League of Gentlemen' and the darker 'Inside No 9' episodes. Vintage, British made horror films had top notch stars like Peter Cushing, Christopher Lee and Vincent Price, plus amazing, A-list support from legends like Terry-Thomas, Diana Dors, Ian Hendry, Arthur Lowe, Donald Pleasance, Joan Collins, Anna Massey, Tom Baker, Robert Morley, etc etc. The movies were a heady mix of theatrical violence, camp comedy and British eccentricity, with the anthology style of the Amicus productions keeping the action fast paced - no wonder Mr Gatiss & friends love them! Another set of fabulous British horrors are the 'Dr Phibes' films starring Vincent Price with the beautiful Caroline Munroe as his dead wife. Probably the most surreal movie ever made, if you haven't seen those I heartily recommend them. I'm thrilled to have found your excellent channel, thanks again for this great video I thoroughly enjoyed it. Have a great day! X

[@WeeLin]

@@glamdolly30 I loved History of Horror and I've been meaning to watch it again. Horror Europa was excellent as well, and I think they're all on KZbin. Thanks for reminding me!

[@rva]

Thank you for this. Stayed with me like an emotional hook in my ❤

[@WeeLin]

Mine too - I love this episode.

[@00Ketan]

This has made me so emotional yet again. I had missed so many references and still thought it was a master piece. Now your efforts have made me love this episode more than I thought I'd ever be. Thanks for the video.

[@WeeLin]

The more I watch it, the more things I see and the more I love it. This is true of every Number Nine, but never more so than this one. Thanks!

[@the_clone_ranger7730]

Sheridan Smith was outstanding in this episode. The whole cast was but she was amazing.

[@JG-kk1mr]

12 Days of Christine has got to be one of the most perfect pieces of modern television. Your analysis brilliantly explains why. I'm astounded by the intelligence and humanity Steve and Reece showed in their writing. And yes Sheridan Smith was sublime as Christine. I tear up every time I think of this episode, let alone watch it. Brilliant vid!

[@WeeLin]

It's amazing how that humanity has always been there in their writing - even the end of the first series of League of Gentlemen had me feeling empathy for their strange and vicious creations, such as Tubbs and Pauline. But this episode took it to a whole other level. "Sublime" is absolutely the word for Sheridan Smith's performance - what she can do with just the smallest expression shows sheer talent. In the commentary, Steve and Reece say they've barely even touched on her acting range here, and I believe them.

[@Wintis_Swizzle]

Yep. Just wait for their legacy to get erased by BLM 🥱

[@Alex-cw3rz]

@@Wintis_Swizzle been a year and hasn't been, so I guess you were wrong.

[@Wintis_Swizzle]

@@Alex-cw3rz Have you tried watching League of Gentlemen on BBC I player lately? 🤔

[@Wintis_Swizzle]

@@Alex-cw3rz Sorry! Just dropped the mic

[@rat9199]

this and bernie clifton's dressing room are special

[@WeeLin]

That's my other favourite episode!

[@rosyangell]

i am so in love with Inside No.9. it's rare to see a series which is as dark, comic and clever as no9. fingers cross they give us a season 5, i've watched all of them about twice!

[@WeeLin]

When it comes to No 9, the second watch is the best watch. You suddenly notice all the details they seed in from the beginning. And you're in luck - series 5 has already been filmed, and the guys have said it will air early next year!

[@rosyangell]

WeeLin oh wow!! i am so excited😆best way to start the new year

[@buterababe5594]

In the beginning of the episode you hear police sirens and in her memory it is just a toy but it was actually part of what was occurring irl

[@WeeLin]

It's all connected - the blue lights, toy cars and sirens, hiding chocolate eggs right before she remembers the real eggs that smashed in the car - there were so many details and I keep spotting new ones every time. Last time I watched, it looked like Jack's schoolbag had vehicles printed on it, and it looked like he'd made a drawing of either a fire engine or ambulance, which is hanging up beside the door at one point. The attention they paid to the props/set-dressing was unbelievable.

[@buterababe5594]

WeeLin 💙💙

[@MedievalFolkDance]

It genuinely says an awful lot about a show when it takes an even longer time to explain the show than the run-time of the show itself. So glad to have it back :D

[@prakhar242]

You know your show is great when videos analysing it are longer than the episodes

[@WeeLin]

Definitely! And this video could easily have been longer.

[@Polygonyall]

why am i crying so damn loud

[@WeeLin]

Because Steve and Reece are masters at what they do, and because Sheridan Smith has the power to destroy us all with one sad smile!

[@vintagesoup79]

This episode profoundly effected me. It was very relatable on many levels and so sad. I think it says a lot about Reece and Steve, that they were very much in the background performance wise and had full confidence in Sheridan Smith and the rest of the cast. I wonder if they'll do this again. Wonderful music.

[@WeeLin]

It's funny how the two most emotional episodes have one with Steve and Reece in the background, and the other (Bernie Clifton's Dressing Room) where their performance is the entire show. I think they might do more dramatic pieces with them in the background, seeing as their writing attracts such amazing acting talent. And I was so happy when I heard the finished music for this video!

[@GenericGooner]

They hit gold with Sheridan Smith. Not only a great actor, but she has a face that can play a range of ages, I believed she was early 20s and also believed she was in her 30s. It’s a minor detail but it allows you to believe in the scenario and the character

[@WeeLin]

She's incredible in this - I really believed her character at every point in her life. Sheridan Smith has real talent, and she was perfect in this role.

[@themonoworth96]

I just started watching the show and this one was the best and most sad amazing show so far

[@WeeLin]

I fell in love with this episode when I first saw it, and it's still my favourite.

[@drey8]

Just watched it, as I always do in the run up to Christmas, my obligatory watch to set the mood! Brilliant writing, I crack at Jack's first day of school then the ending is just so sad. I like the line when Steve hands her the birthday cake - "one big puff".

[@WeeLin]

I totally heard that line in my head when I used that still image from the birthday party! Bobby was a great character, really caring and protective instead of just being one big gay joke. I like when Adam tries to cracking a joke at his expense ('She said "buff", not "puff"') and gets glared at. Only his real friends get to make those jokes, Adam!

[@melanie-wv2jm]

Another favorite episode of mine that portrays Death in a more peaceful, accepting tone is The Twilight Zone's: 'Nothing In The Dark'. Like this episode of Inside No. 9, it gets me every time. Excellent video!!

[@WeeLin]

I've been meaning to watch some Twilight Zone but never know where to start. I'll make a note of this one and try to track it down. Cheers!