Stephen Graham stars in Walk Like a Panther comedy, which is set to be broadcast tonight on television, giving viewers another chance to catch this overlooked British film. Channel 4 will air the movie in the early hours, reintroducing audiences to a nostalgic comedy featuring wrestling, community spirit, and a celebrated cast.
Revisiting a Comedy Centered on Wrestling and Community
Walk Like a Panther brings Stephen Graham into the role of Mark Bolton, the determined son of Bulldog, a former professional wrestler played by Dave Johns. The plot revolves around the local pub, The Half Nelson, facing imminent closure—a threat that pushes Mark, Bulldog, and a group of wrestling veterans from the 1980s to unite and try to save their cherished gathering place.
The film assembles an impressive lineup of British actors, including Jason Flemyng and Jill Halfpenny. Despite its notable cast and heartfelt storyline, the comedy struggled to capture an audience at the time of its 2018 release, with reported global box office earnings of just £280,000, according to Box Office Mojo.
When and Where to Watch Walk Like a Panther
For those who missed its initial theatre run, Channel 4 is providing an opportunity to see the film, broadcasting it at 1am on Thursday, 12 June. For viewers unable to tune in at that time, it is expected that Channel 4 will add the film to its streaming platform, providing more flexibility for fans of the cast or quirky British comedies.
Production Details and Mixed Critical Reception
Directed and written by Dan Cadan, Walk Like a Panther entered cinemas to a largely negative critical response. The movie currently holds a low approval rating of 8% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on a dozen reviews. The Times commented,
“Such ridiculousness should be funny, but it’s not, possibly because the world it’s lampooning was so laughable in the first place,”
—The Times. Meanwhile, The Daily Telegraph described the comedy as “toe-curling,” and The Independent noted the lack of effective humor with,
“never as funny as it needs to be”
—The Independent.
Despite the criticism, some positive aspects were highlighted. The Guardian praised Graham’s engaging performance, even while pointing out the shortage of comedic moments, and Cultured Vultures cited the cast’s strong chemistry, noting that they made the film “impossible not to like.” The same publication singled out Dave Johns’s portrayal of Bulldog as especially endearing, calling it the “heart of the film.”
Cast Achievements and Future Projects
Although Walk Like a Panther has not become a landmark feature in Stephen Graham’s filmography, the actor continues to enjoy a busy career. He is set to appear in a forthcoming, currently untitled, detective series inspired by the Joona Linna novels written by Lars Kepler. Graham’s extensive work also includes collaborations with renowned directors such as Richard Linklater and appearances in blockbusters and international films, reflecting his broad range in the industry.
Lasting Impressions and Viewing Options
Walk Like a Panther offers a chance to revisit the comedic side of British wrestling history, with a notable ensemble cast and a sense of nostalgia for 1980s culture. While the film may not have left a substantial mark on the box office or among critics, its scheduled airing on Channel 4 and potential availability on streaming ensures that both new and returning viewers can rediscover its offbeat charm and the spirited performances of actors like Stephen Graham, Dave Johns, and Jill Halfpenny.
