Gangsta Granny, a wholesome, fun family film for Christmas

Whether it's the Swedish Christmas Eve custom of watching Donald Duck cartoons or the British tradition of a Christmas Day Bond movie - or The Sound of Music - there's no denying that the telly plays an important part in festive celebrations. And in the spirit of wholesome family fun, BBC Entertainment is showing (Christmas Day at 2pm), a big-hearted, feel-good comedy that should please both egg-nogged Grandpa and excitable kids.

Adapted from comedian David Walliams' bestselling children's novel of the same name, Gangsta Granny tells the story of Ben (the fabulously named Reece Buttery), a plumbing-mad schoolboy who, neglected by his selfish parents, Mike and Linda (Walliams and Miranda Hart), spends his evenings at his granny's house while his mum and dad indulge in their ballroom dancing obsession. Expecting another humdrum evening of cabbage soup and Scrabble with his boring gran (above; a sprightly Julia McKenzie, Miss Marple), Ben discovers a biscuit tin full of jewels, and with it his grandmother's incredible secret past; she was the international jewel thief known as the Black Cat. Together, with a newfound twinkle in their eyes, they embark on a wild adventure to pull off one last job.

Buttery turns in a performance as smooth as his name alongside wonderful cameos from comedic actors Rob Brydon, as nosey neighbour Mr Parker, and Joanna Lumley, as Queen Elizabeth. Pop superstar Robbie Williams makes his acting debut as a perma-tanned Italian ballroom dancer.

Walliams has penned seven children's books so far, selling about three million copies, and if this movie is anything to go by, that should equate to three million satisfied customers.

Gangsta Granny is a humorous and moral tale with a bittersweet ending, and a good ol' frolic; just what's needed as the family digests the turkey and mince pies.