Marcie's Dowry

David Mackenzie's tale of blackmail, gangsters and a policeman's wedding is a comic delight. Written by Bill Chamberlain, it concerns an old farmer (Edward Woodward) in the West of Scotland and his wife (Sheila Donald), who, over the years, have spent several bank loans on their daughter, Marcie (Marsali Stewart), and now that she's marrying her boy-in-blue (Kevin McKidd), there's no money left.

They decide that life insurance is the answer and Marcie's claim, after their demise, will act as a dowry. First they have to die. In the process of failing to drive off a cliff, they notice men-in-suits dumping what looks like a body in the quarry pool. Suddenly, being paid to keep their traps shut sounds like a healthier way to tackle the bank balance's short fall.

Mackenzie has a terrific feel for comedy and the performances are beautifully understated.