Bangkok banter is a hol lot of fun

As someone whose kids are at the “Do you have to walk us all the way to the classroom, Dad?” stage, the thought of them one day wanting to take me on a free holiday is very far away.

It would be even further away if I am as grumpy and openly critical as Jack Whitehall’s father Michael.

Which is why I was intrigued to hear Jack was taking Michael, 77, to south-east Asia for a bonding getaway.

All six parts of the resulting home video Travels With My Father are now

showing on Netflix.

It’s perfect for killing chill time while you wait for Kiefer Sutherland’s utterly ludicrous yet totally addictive White House drama Designated Survivor to drop. I’m watching one episode at a time but I’m already amazed Jack, 29, and Michael made it beyond one night in Bangkok.

I’m no psychologist, so I’m putting the mutual acrimony down to some good old-fashioned father/son banter. Or whatever word posh people use for banter — probably badinage.

Besides, seasoned comic Jack and TV late-bloomer Michael know what makes for good telly. So I’m guessing there’s a fair amount of playing up to the camera.

That doesn’t make it any less watchable. Seeing Jack being repeatedly slapped across the face by a masseuse is almost worth the Netflix fee alone.

I’m already looking forward to the rest — especially the part where they reach Cambodia and apparently get stuck on “a primitive train ride”.

No, I never knew Southern Rail went to Phnom Penh either.

BUDDIES Jack and Michael Whitehall enjoy their Travels