This is based on the life of music hall star George Laybourne, tracking his rise from singing in pubs to becoming one of the top entertainers of his day. Although the competition over who had the better drinking song between Laybourne and rival The Great Vance (Stanley Holloway, obviously thoroughly relishing the role) did supposedly take place, the film isn't overly accurate historically and does skim over detail somewhat. On the positive side, this does make room for more songs and the film packs in plenty with the numbers being infectiously catchy and marvellously well delivered. Sadly, this seems to be a somewhat forgotten Ealing film, which is a shame as it gives excellent insight into a decidedly odd, but enjoyable looking form of particularly British entertainment now consigned to history.
Review of Champagne Charlie
