TV: Rev. \ Episode 1 \ BBC Two

Smashing new comedy from the BBC featuring a plot line inspired by real life events in a church in the East End of London, consigning memories of the last vicar-based sit-com – Vicar of Dibley – to the bin.

It’s great to see Victoria Colman playing the vicar’s wife. Colin – one of the parishioners – is an interesting character played convincingly well. His crime-solving skills are simple yet effective.

But it’s the lead in Rev. who shines. Ton Hollander – previously Saffy’s fiancée in Absolutely Fabulous – has finally got his chance to step out into the limelight. He delivers in a performance he’s credited as having co-written. The scene with two vicars competing over their knowledge of the gospel is goldust.

Be sure to check out the programme page for Rev. on the BBC website (it’s a kind of website – only automated). It’s got some tasty behind the scenes stuff on it.