Charles finds himself uncharacteristically employed in a film, having landed the part of Szabec, a middle management vampire in The Wreathing. His co-star is swimwear model turned actress Jodie Ricks and before long, Jodie is using Charles as a confidant. Poor Jodie is in terrible trouble - not only is she being blackmailed over some compromising photos, but she is also carrying the baby of the film's producer, Elliot Roth, who now wants nothing to do with her. Then things take an even nastier turn when it appears that someone is trying to kill Jodie. Always keen to help a damsel in distress, Charles sets about trying to solve the mystery...

Cast in Order of Disappearance was originally broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 2010. This four part series features Bill Nighy stars as Charles Paris and Martine McCutcheon as Jodie Ricks.

Nighy turns in a near faultless performance as the wannabe actor/detective who has problems juggling his time between his ex-wife and daughter, a new acting gig in the almost guaranteed straight to DVD sci-fi movie 'The Wreathing' and now as a knight in shining armour for his leading lady - who is convinced someone is trying to kill her.

Can Charles get to the bottom of the mystery? Can he keep his ex-wife happy? Push his agent into getting him a better paid gig? Keep his drinking under control? And, more importantly, stay alive?

With just the right amount of humour thrown into the mix, this story is entertaining. If you're getting bored of the repetitive detective dramas that are constantly being churned out, this will be like a breath of fresh air.

8

Darren Rea