Elaine C Smith, a stalwart of Scottish comedy royalty, might usually command the spotlight, but in the new BBC comedy short Govan Fair Queen, it’s young screen newcomer Harper Blue Hamilton who truly captivates. Harper plays Abigail, a sharp-tongued nine-year-old reluctantly entered into a beauty pageant in a working-class district of Glasgow by her grandmother Linda. The contest isn’t just about winning a trip to Florida—it’s a chance to settle an old family grievance after Linda believes she was unfairly ‘robbed’ of the title back in 1968. Written and directed by comic Paul Black, the film is a heartfelt celebration of the humour and resilience of the women from the community he grew up around. Remarkably, the cast is exclusively female, highlighting a world where strong, eccentric, and loving women take centre stage. Linda, portrayed with overbearing yet ultimately warm affection, is depicted raising Abigail single-handedly in a modest, cluttered living room filled with smoke, knick-knacks, and religious iconography. Like the other pushy mothers preparing their daughters to compete as ‘mini-Mes,’ she’s an eccentric but entirely believable character. Abigail matches her grandmother’s tenacity, suggesting this fiery spirit is inherited. Govan Fair Queen offers an affectionate and authentic portrayal of its working-class Glasgow setting. While the surroundings may seem drab, the characters are vividly colourful, and the humour emerges naturally from their personalities rather than relying on obvious punchlines. The short is beautifully atmospheric and visually accomplished, with director Black’s skill evident in shots like the wide-angle montage of the stage during the girls’ ‘talent’ segment. Overall, Govan Fair Queen is a warm, witty, and well-crafted tribute to community, family, and female resilience that marks an impressive addition to Scottish comedy.

Go to full review