"Borderline" is a riveting mockumentary that takes viewers behind the scenes of the fictional Northend Airport, a small but strategically significant provincial airport. Set against the backdrop of a bustling yet understated travel hub, this comedic series hilariously explores the daily operations of the border security office. Despite its modest size and lack of the glamour often associated with larger international airports, Northend Airport adheres to the same stringent regulations and protocols, creating a backdrop rich with situational comedy and absurdity. The characters navigate through numerous quirky encounters with travelers, all while maintaining their professionalism in a less-than-glamorous environment.
At the forefront of this comedic ensemble are Jamie Michie as Grant and David Avery as Tariq. Grant, portrayed by Michie, is a stalwart officer dedicated to his duties but often finds himself caught in ridiculous predicaments with the various travelers that pass through Northend Airport. Simultaneously, Avery’s Tariq adds a layer of charm and wit, serving as the perfect foil to Grant's serious demeanor. Together, they masterfully depict the challenges of their roles while engaging with eccentric passengers and dealing with the quirks of airport life, creating a captivating dynamic that drives the humor of the series.
Throughout its episodes, "Borderline" cleverly critiques the bureaucratic processes inherent in border security while showcasing the humanity of its characters. It offers viewers a blend of laugh-out-loud moments and poignant reflections on the complexities of modern travel. As Grant and Tariq encounter bizarre situations and navigate the intricacies of airport protocol, the show highlights not only the absurdities of border control but also the camaraderie that develops among staff in the face of chaos. With its sharp writing and relatable characters, "Borderline" is a comedic gem that draws audiences into the often-overlooked world of airport security."
Full Cast of Borderline
Jamie Michie
Grant (12 episodes)
Jamie Michie delivers a commendable performance as Grant in the satirical British television series "Borderline," perfectly embodying the character's dual role as both the stoic and often bewildered passport control officer and a key player in the mockumentary-style narrative. His portrayal is a delicate balance of deadpan humor and understated pathos, as he navigates the absurdities of a fictional UK border control agency. Michie's Grant is the epitome of a man trying to maintain professionalism in a sea of chaos, with his dry wit and impeccable timing providing a solid comedic backbone to the series. His interactions with his colleagues and the various eccentric characters that pass through the border are laced with a subtlety that allows the humor to shine through the mundane, often highlighting the trivialities and bureaucratic nightmares faced by such officials. Jamie Michie's performance is a testament to his range as an actor, as he convincingly presents a character who is both a figure of authority and an object of sympathy, caught in the farcical web of an underfunded and overstretched public service.
David Avery
Tariq (12 episodes)
David Avery's portrayal of Tariq in the British sitcom 'Borderline' is a standout performance that brings a unique blend of humor and authenticity to the forefront. As the sharp-witted and often deadpan Tariq, Avery adeptly navigates the comedic timing required for the show's mockumentary style, delivering his lines with a natural flair that enhances the satirical edge of the series. His character, a passport control officer at the fictional Northend Airport, is characterized by his dry wit and perpetual frustration with the mundane aspects of bureaucratic life, which Avery conveys with an understated yet compelling presence. His interactions with fellow cast members highlight his ability to engage in quick-witted banter while maintaining the nuanced layers of Tariq's personality. Avery's performance is a testament to his range as a comedic actor, as he manages to evoke laughter often through subtle facial expressions and intonations, making Tariq one of the most memorable and quotable characters on the show.
Jackie Clune
Proctor (12 episodes)
Jackie Clune brings a delightful blend of severity and vulnerability to her portrayal of Proctor in the British sitcom "Borderline." As the no-nonsense Passport Office manager, Clune delivers a performance that is both commanding and subtly nuanced. Her character, Proctor, is the anchor of the chaotic airport-based workplace, providing a stark contrast to the quirky and often dysfunctional team she manages. With a sharp tongue and a penchant for protocol, Clune's Proctor is the embodiment of a middle manager caught between the demands of her superiors and the eccentricities of her staff. Yet, beneath her tough exterior, Clune layers the character with moments of warmth and a hint of a sense of humor that make Proctor surprisingly relatable. Her performance is a standout, offering viewers a character that is both a source of comic relief and a touchstone of professionalism in the absurd world of "Borderline."
Ralf Little
Narrator (6 episodes) , (voice) (6 episodes)
Ralf Little's performance as the Narrator in the British sitcom "Borderline" is a masterclass in deadpan humor and subtle irony. His voiceover provides a running commentary that deftly skewers the absurdities of airport security and border control, while also offering a sly wink to the audience. Little's delivery is pitch-perfect, enhancing the mockumentary style of the show with a dry, conversational tone that contrasts beautifully with the outlandish behavior of the characters on screen. His ability to maintain a straight face while highlighting the farcical elements of the plot is crucial to the show's comedic timing, making his narration not just a vehicle for exposition, but a character in its own right. Little's voice becomes the audience's guide through the chaotic world of "Borderline," providing a consistent thread of wit and humor that elevates the overall comedic impact of the series.
Crew of Borderline
Full backstage crew list →
