The Rack Pack is not just the first film ever to include a major emotional scene backed by Chas and Dave's Snooker Loopy (at least, we think it is), but it’s also the first ever comedy drama feature film to premiere on BBC iPlayer.
Unveiled on the evening of the Masters Final (and the iPlayer team offer their huge gratitude to Ronnie O’Sullivan for winning so quickly everyone could watch both), the film has generated a huge response on social media. It hasn’t just been the story that’s got people talking, either.
The people portrayed in the film seemed pleased with the results – even though one of them was depicted with a deeply unflattering haircut.
Other snooker fans also enjoyed the pot-em-up (thank you, Charlie Brooker).
It seems as if there hasn’t been a more compelling mix of laughter and drama around the green baize since Big Break was in its pomp.
One of the most popular aspects of The Rack Pack has been its fantastic soundtrack. We’re not sure there’s enough prog for Steve Davis’ liking, but the classic rock from The Who, Cream and Thin Lizzy (and yes, Chas and Dave) has proven a hit.
We already have! You can check out the playlist at the BBC Music site.
Perhaps surprisingly, given it’s set in the era of cream suits and bri-nylon, the wardrobe has also attracted some attention...
But films based on real people and real events can often prove to be divisive - and the same has been the case with The Rack Pack...
The Rack Pack is available on BBC iPlayer until Monday, 16 January 2017. And if you can’t get enough of the eighties action, you can also look behind the scenes to see how the white hot atmosphere of the World Championships at the Crucible was recreated in a snooker hall in Llanelli.
