Screenright Michael Pertwee and helmer Mario Zampi had two bites at the cherry some six years apart and now Talking Pictures have acquired both Laughter In Paradise (1951) and The Naked Truth (1957) and screen both every few weeks. What emerges from this is that Laughter In Paradise retains all its freshness and stands up far better than The Naked Truth (which, nevertheless) is still well worth seeing. As pedants have pointed out here on imdb the plot does nod to Brewster's Millions but if anyone DOES find something new under the sun perhaps they'd be kind enough to share it. The premise is both simple and effective and actually plays fair with the audience inasmuch as Hugh Griffith is identified as a celebrated practical joker from moment one so we shouldn't be surprised when - after bequeathing £50,000 each to four relatives on condition that each performs a bizarre task well out of his or her comfort zone, and they comply - he turns out to have spent the money before he died. The fun, of course, is watching how the legatees deal with the terms of the will. Well written, cast and directed there is still lots of pleasure to be extracted sixty-odd years later.
29 Reviews
While not exactly hilarious, this comedy was enjoyable and had a nice finale.
planktonrules6 June 2017
When the film begins, an elderly man is dying...and he commits a prank on his way out of this world. But it's not his final prank...that comes in his will. When it's read to his four relatives, they're each told they'd receive 50,000 pounds...provided each do something odd and specifically tailored to them. His haughty sister is told that in order to collect, she must become a domestic and serve as one for a year. His cousin, the writer, must act out his dime novels...and get himself incarcerated for 28 days. His meek relative must hold up a bank with a fake gun...and his playboy cousin must marry the first woman with which he strikes up a conversation! And, all of these must be completed without telling anyone why they are doing it!
What made this one especially good is that, for the most part, the folks all learned a positive lesson from all this and there were also a few laughs along the way. Worth seeing and clever.
What made this one especially good is that, for the most part, the folks all learned a positive lesson from all this and there were also a few laughs along the way. Worth seeing and clever.
The beauty of the film is in the triumph of the Will
Spondonman15 June 2014
I first saw this as a youngster and liked it, but over the years it's really grown on me until now I regard it as a minor classic. The main characters were all played excellently, with many lesser characters also played memorably.
Practical joker Hugh Griffiths dies and leaves GBP 50,000 to each of his four living relatives if they complete various silly but onerous tasks within one month of his death. Pulp writer Alistair Sim, snobby Fay Compton, womaniser Guy Middleton and timid George Cole are all faced with problems that are against their natures, and their attempts to succeed ultimately result in a worthy moral and laughter on Earth. Cole's "juvenile" sections used to irritate me when younger but there's plenty else to savour, especially the incomparable Sim as a determined shoplifter, Compton as a harassed skivvy and Middleton as a hornswoggled suitor. As icing on the cake there's also fluffy Joyce Grenfell, scathing John Laurie, suave Anthony Steel, jolly Ernest Thesiger, and many other old friends – even the forever bald Noel Howlett and a young Audrey Hepburn. The direction and production values were top notch too; the sets were so beautifully wooden, the acting certainly was not.
It's flimsy yet logical, life-affirming and recommended – stay with it to the end to have the last laugh.
Practical joker Hugh Griffiths dies and leaves GBP 50,000 to each of his four living relatives if they complete various silly but onerous tasks within one month of his death. Pulp writer Alistair Sim, snobby Fay Compton, womaniser Guy Middleton and timid George Cole are all faced with problems that are against their natures, and their attempts to succeed ultimately result in a worthy moral and laughter on Earth. Cole's "juvenile" sections used to irritate me when younger but there's plenty else to savour, especially the incomparable Sim as a determined shoplifter, Compton as a harassed skivvy and Middleton as a hornswoggled suitor. As icing on the cake there's also fluffy Joyce Grenfell, scathing John Laurie, suave Anthony Steel, jolly Ernest Thesiger, and many other old friends – even the forever bald Noel Howlett and a young Audrey Hepburn. The direction and production values were top notch too; the sets were so beautifully wooden, the acting certainly was not.
It's flimsy yet logical, life-affirming and recommended – stay with it to the end to have the last laugh.
The Genius of Alistair Sim
Stamp-319 September 1999
This is such a funny film! It's a clever plot which owes more than something to the old "warhorse" Brewster's Millions, and is filled with the eccentric lunacy which characterised so many British films made after WW2.
Alistair Sim is THE truly great British comic actor, even more so than Alec Guinness or Peter Sellers. To watch the scene when he tries to get arrested for shoplifting in the department store is to experience sheer comic inspiration.
I am no fan of remakes (have you seen the Thomas Crown remake!!), but funnily enough I am amazed that Hollywood hasn't had a go at this. In the right hands it could be made to work again.
Alistair Sim is THE truly great British comic actor, even more so than Alec Guinness or Peter Sellers. To watch the scene when he tries to get arrested for shoplifting in the department store is to experience sheer comic inspiration.
I am no fan of remakes (have you seen the Thomas Crown remake!!), but funnily enough I am amazed that Hollywood hasn't had a go at this. In the right hands it could be made to work again.
Charming little British comedy with some great performances
AlsExGal23 December 2022
After a wealthy eccentric dies, he leaves his very sizable fortune in equal portions to four relatives, but they can only claim the money if they each perform a difficult task. Former military officer and gentleman (and secret crime novelist) Deniston Russell (Alastair Sim) must spend 28 days in prison. Ill-tempered Agnes Russell (Fay Compton), often cruel to her own servants, must herself become a servant. Milquetoast bank teller Herbert Russell (George Cole) must rob his own bank, and his own boss, at gunpoint. And gambler and ladies man Simon Russell (Guy Middleton) must wed the first woman he speaks to. All four struggle to complete their tasks, each with unique and unexpected outcomes.
I wasn't much looking forward to this one, as I only recorded to see Audrey Hepburn's brief turn as a cigarette girl. Depending on the source, this was her movie debut, and it doesn't amount to much although she's very cute. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find this a charming little comedy with some winning performances and enjoyable plot turns. Sim steals the show as a proper gent utterly befuddled at trying to become a criminal, attempting a variety a minor offenses in an attempt to earn the requisite 28 days in the clink. Any fans of British comedy that missed this the last time it was shown would do well to try and catch it on its next showing.
I wasn't much looking forward to this one, as I only recorded to see Audrey Hepburn's brief turn as a cigarette girl. Depending on the source, this was her movie debut, and it doesn't amount to much although she's very cute. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find this a charming little comedy with some winning performances and enjoyable plot turns. Sim steals the show as a proper gent utterly befuddled at trying to become a criminal, attempting a variety a minor offenses in an attempt to earn the requisite 28 days in the clink. Any fans of British comedy that missed this the last time it was shown would do well to try and catch it on its next showing.
British Comedy at its best
n-raby25 June 2003
This is a most excellent example of the comic talents of Alistair Sim. His bungling attempts to get himself arrested had me in stitches. Particularly trying to get the store detective, or indeed anyone, to notice he was trying his hand at shoplifting. And of course finding a crime that would only get him the 30 days in jail as stipulated in the will.
As someone else has mentioned he did have all the best lines, but the remainder of the cast did a great job, the mild mannered clerk who had to rob the bank where he worked, the overbearing snob who had to be a maid, the womaniser who had to marry the first woman he spoke to, all made for the usual mix of farce and comedy.
It was also notable for an early appearance of Audrey Hepburn as the cigarette girl.
As someone else has mentioned he did have all the best lines, but the remainder of the cast did a great job, the mild mannered clerk who had to rob the bank where he worked, the overbearing snob who had to be a maid, the womaniser who had to marry the first woman he spoke to, all made for the usual mix of farce and comedy.
It was also notable for an early appearance of Audrey Hepburn as the cigarette girl.
Inherit the prize
Prismark1011 October 2014
A nice sly comedy that has similarities to Brewsters Millions. When Henry Russell (Hugh Griffiths) dies, known during his lifetime as a practical joker, he sets his beneficiaries a task that they must achieve before they can gain a share of their inheritance of £50,000. The tasks are related to some character weakness.
Alastair Sim who writes thrashy crime stories, long term engaged to Joyce Grenfell has to get himself arrested and spend 28 days in jail. George Cole a hapless and bullied bank clerk as to stick up the bank that he works for.
Fay Compton has to work as a maid to the curmudgeonly John Laurie without getting fired. The caddish Guy Middleton has to marry the first single woman he meets.
Sim and Cole have the funniest escapades, Middleton passes over a young Audrey Hepburn to pursue the second eligible woman he encounters. The characters discover something about themselves while pursuing their tasks, it is a nice bit of light whimsy.
Alastair Sim who writes thrashy crime stories, long term engaged to Joyce Grenfell has to get himself arrested and spend 28 days in jail. George Cole a hapless and bullied bank clerk as to stick up the bank that he works for.
Fay Compton has to work as a maid to the curmudgeonly John Laurie without getting fired. The caddish Guy Middleton has to marry the first single woman he meets.
Sim and Cole have the funniest escapades, Middleton passes over a young Audrey Hepburn to pursue the second eligible woman he encounters. The characters discover something about themselves while pursuing their tasks, it is a nice bit of light whimsy.
an overview of the title, plot, and cast
Spart-313 October 1999
One would be hard-pressed not to laugh along with the Russell family in the final scene of this, my most favorite of British post-war comedies. It is a comedy in every sense, albeit one which points up several life lessons as it unfolds. Alistair Sim - whose roles have run the gamut from Headmistress of a girls' public school (the St. Trinian's series)to benign assassin (The Green Man) to the dramatic (the quintessential Scrooge in A Christmas Carol) once again proves here that he is without doubt the best of many comic actors in the English cinema. Surrounded by a cast of equal talents (Fay Compton, George Cole, Guy Middleton, A.E. Matthews, John Laurie, and the irrepressible Joyce Grenfell) Sim leads a Light Cavalry charge through a wonderfully woven plot. There are wonderful morals to be learned here also. If you haven't seen this gem, by all means get the video and fill that gaping void in your filmic experiences.
try to guess the ending... British humor
ksf-26 June 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Hugh Griffith is rich British guy Henry Russell. He croaks and leaves his fortune to his family, if they can accomplish certain ironic tasks that they find repulsive. (Griffith was HILARIOUS in "Start the Revolution" in 1970!) Fay Compton had started in the silents and had a long career on stage and film... was in The Haunting. One of Audrey H's early films -- she was only about 22. Only has a small role as a cigarette girl in this one. A whole bunch of "siblings", British actors from way back, who are unfamiliar to most of us. A tad dry, but has a good, steady plot. We watch as the various stories unfold, with varying degrees of success. One just can't get arrested, no matter how hard he tries. Some twists at the end... some are successful in their tasks, some are not. It's entertaining at least. Kind of a precursor to "Easy Money", with Rodney Dangerfield, but this one has a different ending. Directed by Mario Zampi, who worked with writer Michael Pertwee on seven films! Pertwee had written the screenplay for the comedies "A Funny Thing Happened..." in 1966 and "Mouse on the Moon" ! On Turner Classics. Pretty Good !
a satisfying experience
ar_de_be-122 January 2008
Any film with Alastair Sim is worth watching, but this must rank as one of his best. Here he really displays his comic genius; his scenes can rightly be described as a masterclass in the art of comedy. Not before time, this has now become available on DVD, although, as yet, only part of a box set. Since Alastair Sim appears in the other films offered, this is not a great drawback. The other main characters in the film are also very good, particularly Fay Compton, and the supporting roles are filled well, with the always reliable Joyce Grenfell giving great satisfaction. The plot, too, is a cut above the usual, and it all adds up to a very satisfying experience, and one which I have watched many times, and hopefully will watch many more times.
Laughter In Paradise
djfjflsflscv3 April 2020
Well-known prankster Henry Augustus Russell (Hugh Griffith) has laughed his last, and his four relatives gather for the reading of his will. Unfortunately for them, the only way they can each receive the £100,000 inheritance is do something wildly out of character - and that's a challenge for all of them! Deniston (Alistair Sim), a reluctant writer of James Hadley Chase-style novels, must somehow spend 28 days in prison; Agnes (Faye Compton), a snobbish battle-axe who bullies her staff, must become a maid for a month; timid bank clerk Herbert (George Cole) must hold up his own bank, while serial womaniser Simon (Guy Middleton) must marry the first woman he speaks to.
This British comedy from Italian director Mario Zampi is a feel-good film which, although not hilarious, is nonetheless amusing and at times even touching. The scenes in which Agnes contends with her cantankerous, bedridden employer (John Laurie) make this more of a light drama, and perhaps occupies a little too much of the run-time, but the other strands liven it up. Guy Middleton is excellent as a proto-Leslie Phillips, practically reprising his role from the raucous school comedy The Happiest Days of Your Life (also with Sim). George Cole is convincingly nervous as he prepares to confront his boss with a gun, while Joyce Grenfell does what only she can as Sim's militaristic, yet subtly vulnerable, fiancé of ten years. There's also a fleeting appearance from a very young Audrey Hepburn, who receives an introductory credit. The plot may be simple and familiar, but it made for entertaining Christmas Day viewing on the Talking Pictures TV channel. I must have seen it five times, over the years.
This British comedy from Italian director Mario Zampi is a feel-good film which, although not hilarious, is nonetheless amusing and at times even touching. The scenes in which Agnes contends with her cantankerous, bedridden employer (John Laurie) make this more of a light drama, and perhaps occupies a little too much of the run-time, but the other strands liven it up. Guy Middleton is excellent as a proto-Leslie Phillips, practically reprising his role from the raucous school comedy The Happiest Days of Your Life (also with Sim). George Cole is convincingly nervous as he prepares to confront his boss with a gun, while Joyce Grenfell does what only she can as Sim's militaristic, yet subtly vulnerable, fiancé of ten years. There's also a fleeting appearance from a very young Audrey Hepburn, who receives an introductory credit. The plot may be simple and familiar, but it made for entertaining Christmas Day viewing on the Talking Pictures TV channel. I must have seen it five times, over the years.
One of the Great Sim's great roles--and a fine film to boot
fcullen20 April 2014
This classic of comedy and drama stars Alastair Sim, the peerless character comedian, and Fay Compton, a versatile stage actor of considerable range. The Laughter coming from Paradise emanates from a recently deceased eccentric (madcap Hugh Griffith) who follows the efforts of his four competitive heirs, for all of whom he has set different but embarrassing tasks to perform to qualify for an inheritance. Alastair Sim and Fay Compton have the choicer roles. Alastair Sim's ludicrous dilemma leads into a bravura comic performance. His bewildered and peeved fiancée is played by the exceptional Joyce Grenfell. Fay Compton's unsympathetic character becomes an occasion for exquisite acting in this film. Young George Cole, one of Mr & Mrs Sim's real-life protégés, handled comedy nearly as deftly as the master, and Cole is still appearing in films 75 years after his celluloid debut. Cole's role as a sincere but insecure lad is the polar opposite of sly and suave Guy Middleton, the fourth of a quartet of prospective heirs. Kudos to supporting players Ernest Thesiger and Eleanor Summerfield. Audrey Hepburn made her English-language movie debut in this film as a cigarette girl in a supper club, and Anthony Steel, on the brink of becoming a star hunk, had a larger and romantic role. Laugher in Paradise defies genre. It offers character studies, by turn hilarious and poignant. An unqualified 10 from this fan
British Cinema's PARADISE of Classic Comedy! Shakespeare must be taking notes for "Comedy Of Errors" in Heaven from its screenplay.
SAMTHEBESTEST5 November 2023
Laughter in Paradise (1951) :
Brief Review -
British Cinema's PARADISE of Classic Comedy! Shakespeare must be taking notes for "Comedy Of Errors" in Heaven from its screenplay. We have often heard that comedy is very difficult, especially when it comes to writing and screenwriting. The writing part is still a bit easier because it gets the basic things done with fewer difficulties. Well, the screenwriting is more difficult because you have to expand the characters, situations, properties, and especially humour written in the main story. Many people fail there, and that's why even some of the good-written comedies have been wasted. Now here's an example that can be studied and worshipped by screenplay writers. You have a good script that suits the comedy genre, and then you make it even better with your screenplay so that people will have no complaints at all about the on-paper material. Laughter in Paradise is truly a Paradise of screenplay writing in the comedy genre. Shakespeare gave us the comedy of errors centuries ago, and we have been living on it for years. With Laughter in Paradise, British cinema showed that you don't have to copy Shakespeare's literature to create a great example of a "comedy of errors" or errorsful comedy. The main idea in the film is funny, but the screenplay is just CRAZY! Every situation is planted so smartly with mad humour. All those four characters make errors, and what great errors! They all have human angles attached to them, and that's why it looks genuinely funny and timeless, and it's hysterical too. Now tell me, how many times do we get this combination in the comedy genre that doesn't have a bland slapstick theme or outrageous characters? There is a little bit of a Frank Capra touch to this movie, and those who know Capra's comedies/rom-coms will notice it somewhere towards the end. There's everything in this film to recommend, and believe me, it has more than some of your so-called cult comedies from the 70s and 80s in Hollywood and Bollywood.
RATING - 7.5/10*
By - #samthebestest.
British Cinema's PARADISE of Classic Comedy! Shakespeare must be taking notes for "Comedy Of Errors" in Heaven from its screenplay. We have often heard that comedy is very difficult, especially when it comes to writing and screenwriting. The writing part is still a bit easier because it gets the basic things done with fewer difficulties. Well, the screenwriting is more difficult because you have to expand the characters, situations, properties, and especially humour written in the main story. Many people fail there, and that's why even some of the good-written comedies have been wasted. Now here's an example that can be studied and worshipped by screenplay writers. You have a good script that suits the comedy genre, and then you make it even better with your screenplay so that people will have no complaints at all about the on-paper material. Laughter in Paradise is truly a Paradise of screenplay writing in the comedy genre. Shakespeare gave us the comedy of errors centuries ago, and we have been living on it for years. With Laughter in Paradise, British cinema showed that you don't have to copy Shakespeare's literature to create a great example of a "comedy of errors" or errorsful comedy. The main idea in the film is funny, but the screenplay is just CRAZY! Every situation is planted so smartly with mad humour. All those four characters make errors, and what great errors! They all have human angles attached to them, and that's why it looks genuinely funny and timeless, and it's hysterical too. Now tell me, how many times do we get this combination in the comedy genre that doesn't have a bland slapstick theme or outrageous characters? There is a little bit of a Frank Capra touch to this movie, and those who know Capra's comedies/rom-coms will notice it somewhere towards the end. There's everything in this film to recommend, and believe me, it has more than some of your so-called cult comedies from the 70s and 80s in Hollywood and Bollywood.
RATING - 7.5/10*
By - #samthebestest.
Not much laughter, but the cast compensates...
moonspinner5511 August 2009
Occasionally likable bit of British whimsy has the four greedy, spineless relatives of a deceased practical joker having to humble or humiliate themselves to get their share of the inheritance; naturally, behaving in a manner they're not accustomed to, they become better individuals. Nicely-cast comedy-drama gives Fay Compton in particular a marvelous role as a shrike who is reduced to working as a maid; small bits by Sebastian Cabot (as a poker player with marvelous eyes) and Audrey Hepburn (as a cigarette girl with a tiny little voice) are also worth noting. Hepburn made brief appearances in several British films of the early-'50s before her breakthrough role in 1953's "Roman Holiday", and it's clear from her cameo here that she had star-charisma but was in need of direction and molding. The picture isn't very funny or fresh, but there are bits and pieces which are successful. ** from ****
Sweetly Amusing
dougdoepke26 August 2009
Alastair Sim would make a perfect undertaker. With those Bassett-hound eyes and that mournful hand-wringing manner, he's made to preside over the Slumber Room and ease you into the priciest model. So, it never fails to surprise me that he's also a first-rate comedic actor, maybe even the last word in droll comedy. And he pulls off the humor so slyly, with just a minor change of expression. What a wonderfully artistic contrast he is to today's rub- your-nose-in-it brand of comedy.
This is not his best vehicle, but the movie does have a clever premise and a couple of good set-ups—the shoplifting sequence, and any scene with Joyce Grenfell. The sketches, however, are more amusing than hilarious, and the humor never really peaks out in a climactic way. It's also perhaps one of the sweetest comedies on record, insisting that the key to happiness is pairing up with another, even in the case of those two cranky old people. That's the wisdom behind the will's requirement— old man Russell makes each beneficiary experience what is most missing from his or her life, and in the process, become a better and happier person.
Note the shot taken early on at America's brand of hard-boiled detective fiction, probably then making inroads into popular British fiction. So, by combining America's street- tough style with traditional British prose, writer Russell (Sim) produces something amusingly ridiculous, like "Petal arched her alabaster arm above her patrician brow in a moment of precise exasperation before he smacked her in the kisser." Anyway, I thought those passages were both funny and cleverly offbeat. All in all, this little comedy may be no knee-slapper, but it is rather sweetly memorable.
This is not his best vehicle, but the movie does have a clever premise and a couple of good set-ups—the shoplifting sequence, and any scene with Joyce Grenfell. The sketches, however, are more amusing than hilarious, and the humor never really peaks out in a climactic way. It's also perhaps one of the sweetest comedies on record, insisting that the key to happiness is pairing up with another, even in the case of those two cranky old people. That's the wisdom behind the will's requirement— old man Russell makes each beneficiary experience what is most missing from his or her life, and in the process, become a better and happier person.
Note the shot taken early on at America's brand of hard-boiled detective fiction, probably then making inroads into popular British fiction. So, by combining America's street- tough style with traditional British prose, writer Russell (Sim) produces something amusingly ridiculous, like "Petal arched her alabaster arm above her patrician brow in a moment of precise exasperation before he smacked her in the kisser." Anyway, I thought those passages were both funny and cleverly offbeat. All in all, this little comedy may be no knee-slapper, but it is rather sweetly memorable.
A CLASSIC
siccy1711 May 2004
Warning: Spoilers
From the very beginning this is a classic. The characters are built up very nicely, each one of them having a particular character flaw. Their dead relative, henry russell (the practical joking man) has set them a task which they must achieve before they can gain their inheritance. seems pretty simple on the base level. but when you look close it is a fantastic piece of social commentary and spiritual guidance. each character changes for the better, having seen the light and the error of their ways doing something they would never have thought of on their own. it takes something like that to show people their own faults and force them to do something about it. this film does it with such class and grace that you can't helpt but find it a masterpiece. and i was a stoned 19 year od when i first watched it!! the money not being there is the coup de gras and the perfect end to this tale. no one is that bothered about it, as their reward has already been recieved - the change to their lives that they all needed and didn't even know they desired!
brilliant
brilliant
A Gem!
liderc24 April 2005
What a great British comedy. First of all it was cool to see Fay Compton from "The Hauting" and "Orson Welles' Otello" again. The script is original and very funny in a lighthearted and intelligent way and the actors are all just great. I liked the writer and his funny secretary best. His spouse was really funny, too and her character made me wonder what Hollywood would make out of it in a contemporary comedy: I guess they would turn her character into "a lesbian", you know, one of their silly clichés.
This movie is so much better than those dumb primitive comedies Hollywood treats its viewers to! See it if you have the chance.
This movie is so much better than those dumb primitive comedies Hollywood treats its viewers to! See it if you have the chance.
Superb plot and script, great cast in a great comedy
SimonJack7 March 2016
Warning: Spoilers
This movie is one of the wittiest and best sophisticated comedies ever written - and ever acted. "Laughter in Paradise" ranks up there with a handful of great "quiet" comedies, such as "It Happened One Night." That 1934 film was the first and only comedy, and one of only three movies to win the big five Academy Awards - for best picture, director, screenplay, actor and actress. This movie probably didn't get much attention in 1951 Hollywood because it is a British film. But it's as good or better than the 1934 Oscar winner.
These "quiet" films are not comedies of antics and hijinks that elicit rollicking laughter. Instead, they have clever and witty dialog with scenes in which the humor is as much in the situation and the performances of the actors. Unlike laugh fests, these films evoke chuckles, grins, knowing nods, smiles and other pleasant responses (even an occasional howl or burst of laughter).
The screenplay for "Laughter in Paradise" is outstanding. The story is very clever and original. The plot is about four relatives - all Russells, inheriting an estate. But, hidden within are four separate stories of people changing, growing and finding new meaning in life - and new lives. It's all neatly wrapped in a mantle of ingenious comedy. The success of the comedy depends almost as much on the performances of the players. All of the cast excel in their roles. The nuances, insinuations and intimations are performed realistically and with whimsy. And, we viewers revel in the humor of each scene and situation.
Top billing in the film goes to Alastair Sim as Deniston Russell. Without a doubt, Sim is one of the best British comedy actors of the 20th century. His character has some of the wittiest dialog exchanges, and some of the funniest situations. Aiding and abetting him in the comedy is Joyce Grenfell who plays Elizabeth Robson, aka "Muffy" to whom Deniston has been engaged for ten years. A. E. Matthews plays her father with aplomb - Sir Charles Robson.
Very close to Sims in his role are George Cole as Herbert and Guy Middleton as Simon. Fay Compton is superb as Agnes. Her role is as much serious as comedic, but she shares some wonderful comedy situations with John Laurie who plays Gordon Webb. Other supporting actors are excellent in their roles. Ronald Adam plays the nasty and mean- mannered bank manager, Mr. Wagstaff. Or, as Herbert says, "Mr. Wag-stoff," who refers to Herbert as a bank "clark." There's more than a little exaggeration with some English accents. Eleanor Summerfield plays Sheila Wilcott, the very competent and admiring secretary to Deniston. Mackenzie Ward is Benson, the loyal and clever butler to Simon. Beatrice Campbell is Lucille Grayson, all too ready to be snared by Simon. Several small parts are very good - a couple of police sergeants and constables, Gordon Webb's daughter Joan, the private detective Roger Godfrey and others. One other notable mention is Audrey Hepburn as a cigarette girl. The beginning film credits even draw attention to her: "And introducing Audrey Hepburn." It was just her second film that came out just a month after her debut in a lesser movie, "One Wild Oat."
This is a great film and one that should be in every serious movie collector's library. It should be on any list of the funniest movies of all time. The musical score is excellent. The direction and all quality aspects are superb. And there are some scenes with little or no dialog that will have one chuckling if not laughing out loud. Sims has great scenes trying to get caught shoplifting and later in court. Here are some sample lines from the film. The humor of these is magnified greatly by the visuals.
Agnes, "It should not be necessary for people to die in order to have their photograph dusted."
Herbert, "Oh, no sir. She's not a lady. She's my landlady."
Dictating an opening scene of a new crime novel to Sheila, Deniston says, "I walked over and slugged her in the kisser. She certainly was a swell tomato."
Sheila (Miss Wilcott), "Not many people can get a book published at all, and look at you. Scores of them, and under 15 different names."
Elizabeth, to Deniston, "You promised to take me out tonight, and I've had a bath especially."
Herbert, "It's impossible. Not even a real gangster would dare to point a gun at Mr. Wag-stoff. Or point anything at Mr. Wag-stoff."
Deniston, to Simon, "I couldn't possibly burgle somebody I didn't know."
Simon, after stopping to help a stranded motorist (Lucille), "Do you know anything about cars?" Lucille, "Not a thing." Simon, "Fine!" He looks under the hood and turns to Lucille, "Well, if you ask me, circumventer on the ubiquitous praxtile" Lucille, "What?" Simon, " seems to be blown."
Herbert, "Well, sometimes worms change their spots."
Deniston, "Elizabeth, you have no idea what it cost me to be rude to your father. Or, for that matter, what it would have cost me if I hadn't been."
These "quiet" films are not comedies of antics and hijinks that elicit rollicking laughter. Instead, they have clever and witty dialog with scenes in which the humor is as much in the situation and the performances of the actors. Unlike laugh fests, these films evoke chuckles, grins, knowing nods, smiles and other pleasant responses (even an occasional howl or burst of laughter).
The screenplay for "Laughter in Paradise" is outstanding. The story is very clever and original. The plot is about four relatives - all Russells, inheriting an estate. But, hidden within are four separate stories of people changing, growing and finding new meaning in life - and new lives. It's all neatly wrapped in a mantle of ingenious comedy. The success of the comedy depends almost as much on the performances of the players. All of the cast excel in their roles. The nuances, insinuations and intimations are performed realistically and with whimsy. And, we viewers revel in the humor of each scene and situation.
Top billing in the film goes to Alastair Sim as Deniston Russell. Without a doubt, Sim is one of the best British comedy actors of the 20th century. His character has some of the wittiest dialog exchanges, and some of the funniest situations. Aiding and abetting him in the comedy is Joyce Grenfell who plays Elizabeth Robson, aka "Muffy" to whom Deniston has been engaged for ten years. A. E. Matthews plays her father with aplomb - Sir Charles Robson.
Very close to Sims in his role are George Cole as Herbert and Guy Middleton as Simon. Fay Compton is superb as Agnes. Her role is as much serious as comedic, but she shares some wonderful comedy situations with John Laurie who plays Gordon Webb. Other supporting actors are excellent in their roles. Ronald Adam plays the nasty and mean- mannered bank manager, Mr. Wagstaff. Or, as Herbert says, "Mr. Wag-stoff," who refers to Herbert as a bank "clark." There's more than a little exaggeration with some English accents. Eleanor Summerfield plays Sheila Wilcott, the very competent and admiring secretary to Deniston. Mackenzie Ward is Benson, the loyal and clever butler to Simon. Beatrice Campbell is Lucille Grayson, all too ready to be snared by Simon. Several small parts are very good - a couple of police sergeants and constables, Gordon Webb's daughter Joan, the private detective Roger Godfrey and others. One other notable mention is Audrey Hepburn as a cigarette girl. The beginning film credits even draw attention to her: "And introducing Audrey Hepburn." It was just her second film that came out just a month after her debut in a lesser movie, "One Wild Oat."
This is a great film and one that should be in every serious movie collector's library. It should be on any list of the funniest movies of all time. The musical score is excellent. The direction and all quality aspects are superb. And there are some scenes with little or no dialog that will have one chuckling if not laughing out loud. Sims has great scenes trying to get caught shoplifting and later in court. Here are some sample lines from the film. The humor of these is magnified greatly by the visuals.
Agnes, "It should not be necessary for people to die in order to have their photograph dusted."
Herbert, "Oh, no sir. She's not a lady. She's my landlady."
Dictating an opening scene of a new crime novel to Sheila, Deniston says, "I walked over and slugged her in the kisser. She certainly was a swell tomato."
Sheila (Miss Wilcott), "Not many people can get a book published at all, and look at you. Scores of them, and under 15 different names."
Elizabeth, to Deniston, "You promised to take me out tonight, and I've had a bath especially."
Herbert, "It's impossible. Not even a real gangster would dare to point a gun at Mr. Wag-stoff. Or point anything at Mr. Wag-stoff."
Deniston, to Simon, "I couldn't possibly burgle somebody I didn't know."
Simon, after stopping to help a stranded motorist (Lucille), "Do you know anything about cars?" Lucille, "Not a thing." Simon, "Fine!" He looks under the hood and turns to Lucille, "Well, if you ask me, circumventer on the ubiquitous praxtile" Lucille, "What?" Simon, " seems to be blown."
Herbert, "Well, sometimes worms change their spots."
Deniston, "Elizabeth, you have no idea what it cost me to be rude to your father. Or, for that matter, what it would have cost me if I hadn't been."
Charming And Funny
edavidathome25 January 2020
Very enjoyable, especially when Sims is on screen. Here's an astonishing fact: Alistair Sim was nominated for one bafta, never won an award!!!! Was the world such a strange place then that this truly great comedic actor didn't win any awards?
Sims at it's best
peanutkp224 May 2001
This has got to be a classic of Ealing comedies.
Alistair Sim is at his best, the scene with the window (Fact-he ad-libbed most of the scene too)is proof that actors like him are few in between.
I saw this when I was a nipper as my father said that he enjoyed it when it first came out and even though I've seen it quiet a few times it's still fresh and amusing. Watch it and anything else with Mr Sims, this is British at it's best.
Alistair Sim is at his best, the scene with the window (Fact-he ad-libbed most of the scene too)is proof that actors like him are few in between.
I saw this when I was a nipper as my father said that he enjoyed it when it first came out and even though I've seen it quiet a few times it's still fresh and amusing. Watch it and anything else with Mr Sims, this is British at it's best.
Inheritance of laughs
TheLittleSongbird22 August 2019
Only saw 'Laughter in Paradise' recently with my godparents as the film of choice, chosen by me from their carefully chosen list of films for one of the evenings when staying with them. Due to being fascinated by the premise, who highly appreciates comedy (if more the older comedies than those now) and being someone who loves Alastair Sim. They love Sim as well so it suited all of us just fine with nobody objecting, not always the case in my family.
Had no doubt that 'Laughter in Paradise' was going to be a great film. It absolutely was, to me one of the funniest and most likeable recent film viewings and a real pleasure to watch. Saw a lot of films from all genres and decades and while a lot were decent and more, there were others that were barely average and less. Having seen a lot of wastes of potential recently, where films mess up a good concept and do the talent involved no justice, part of me was starting to feel nervous when seeing a film that intrigued me. 'Laughter in Paradise' though was something of a refreshment.
Will admit to guessing the outcome early on, but the film still executed the ending very well and it at least gelled with the zany premise.
'Laughter in Paradise' looks good though, the black and white photography being very pleasing on the eye and transitions from scene to scene are smooth enough. The music score matches the zany tone of the story and is suitably whimsical. The direction handles the different story strands seamlessly, managing to keep the pace energetic but never rushed throughout and making the storylines equally interesting.
The script is very funny, with Sim agreed having the best lines, yet also manages some surprising pathos in Agnes' storyline. With Agnes progressing the most in a character change that is touching and sympathetically handled. Perhaps Simon's storyline comes off least, but only because there were funnier (and more of them) moments elsewhere and Agnes' especially had more heart. It is entertaining still though and suave Simon just about avoids being annoying. Although it was entertaining seeing George Cole going through lengths to rob a bank, it's Sim's scenes that brings out the most joy. Have never known any film character to go to prison willfully, while there have been few funnier shoplifting attempts scenes than in 'Laughter in Paradise', loved everything with the brick (and the dog in the car) too.
Sim of course is fantastic, one doesn't expect any less though, and is the one that holds 'Laughter in Paradise' together. Fay Compton mixes unsympathetic and sympathetic quite touchingly, while George Cole's earnestness is appealing and Guy Middleton does suave very well. Joyce Grenfell, really liked her chemistry with Sim and her body language, and John Laurie, in full cantankerous mode, are hoots in their supporting roles.
In conclusion, great fun. 9/10
Had no doubt that 'Laughter in Paradise' was going to be a great film. It absolutely was, to me one of the funniest and most likeable recent film viewings and a real pleasure to watch. Saw a lot of films from all genres and decades and while a lot were decent and more, there were others that were barely average and less. Having seen a lot of wastes of potential recently, where films mess up a good concept and do the talent involved no justice, part of me was starting to feel nervous when seeing a film that intrigued me. 'Laughter in Paradise' though was something of a refreshment.
Will admit to guessing the outcome early on, but the film still executed the ending very well and it at least gelled with the zany premise.
'Laughter in Paradise' looks good though, the black and white photography being very pleasing on the eye and transitions from scene to scene are smooth enough. The music score matches the zany tone of the story and is suitably whimsical. The direction handles the different story strands seamlessly, managing to keep the pace energetic but never rushed throughout and making the storylines equally interesting.
The script is very funny, with Sim agreed having the best lines, yet also manages some surprising pathos in Agnes' storyline. With Agnes progressing the most in a character change that is touching and sympathetically handled. Perhaps Simon's storyline comes off least, but only because there were funnier (and more of them) moments elsewhere and Agnes' especially had more heart. It is entertaining still though and suave Simon just about avoids being annoying. Although it was entertaining seeing George Cole going through lengths to rob a bank, it's Sim's scenes that brings out the most joy. Have never known any film character to go to prison willfully, while there have been few funnier shoplifting attempts scenes than in 'Laughter in Paradise', loved everything with the brick (and the dog in the car) too.
Sim of course is fantastic, one doesn't expect any less though, and is the one that holds 'Laughter in Paradise' together. Fay Compton mixes unsympathetic and sympathetic quite touchingly, while George Cole's earnestness is appealing and Guy Middleton does suave very well. Joyce Grenfell, really liked her chemistry with Sim and her body language, and John Laurie, in full cantankerous mode, are hoots in their supporting roles.
In conclusion, great fun. 9/10
"Is it necessary to have died to have their photograph taken?'
richardchatten28 October 2022
This charming little beauty obviously struck a chord in postwar austerity Britain since it hit the number one spot in that year's table of box office winners. The long-suffering public probably laughed themselves silly in painful recognition at it's painfully accurate portrayal of a Britain rife with low level criminality (Alistair Sim, for example, promptly gets his pocket picked in one scene) and the ignominious treatment wage slaves reached at the hands of their employers.
It's success ushered in Mario Zampi's career in comedy in which his essential good nature perfectly complimented writer Michael Pertwee's hearty cynicism.
It's success ushered in Mario Zampi's career in comedy in which his essential good nature perfectly complimented writer Michael Pertwee's hearty cynicism.
"Here's Bloody Justice for you"
ygwerin11 November 2019
This is something that I have to comment on before I commence with the film review, regarding points made by other reviewers.
The notion that this film makes a nod to the film Brewsters Millions, and the question of how would Hollywood remake it?
Well this film Laughter in Paradise was made in 1951 and Brewsters Millions was made in 1985, so really it is the American film that makes a nod to the British film and is effectively its Hollywood remake.
With other reviewers expounding on the films plot, there is absolutely no need for me to elaborate on it.
The film has an embarrassment of riches in its cast of British acting talent of the period.
I am a huge fan of Alastair Sim as one of Englands finest, character actors straight or comedic, as ever his performance was simply sublime. Having his character Deniston Russell the author under numerous nom de plumes, of penny dreadful's is priceless. Especially working with his devoted secretary Sheila Wilcott the wonderful Eleanor Summerfield, they have a perfect working arrangement. Pairing his character with the Inimitable Joyce Grenfell, as his doting fiance Fluffy is a total joy. Her dadykins Sir Charles the Magistrate is, brilliantly played by a suitably crusty A.E.Mathews.
Cousin Agnes Russell ably played by Fay Compton has to work as a servant and gets a job as a maid, for the cantankerous old miser Gordon Webb. Played delightfully by John Laurie looking a lot younger, than as Mr. Fraser the undertaker in Dad's Army.
George Cole is aptly named as the proper Herbert, Russell the timorous bank clerk, who has to rob his boss Mr. Wagstaffe.
It's a great shame that one of my favourite Welsh actors Hugh Griffith only has the most fleeting of cameos, as the practical joking uncle Henry Augustus Russell.
With other reviewers expounding on the films plot, there is absolutely no need for me to elaborate on it.
The film has an embarrassment of riches in its cast of British acting talent of the period.
I am a huge fan of Alastair Sim as one of Englands finest, character actors straight or comedic, as ever his performance was simply sublime. Having his character Deniston Russell the author under numerous nom de plumes, of penny dreadful's is priceless. Especially working with his devoted secretary Sheila Wilcott the wonderful Eleanor Summerfield, they have a perfect working arrangement. Pairing his character with the Inimitable Joyce Grenfell, as his doting fiance Fluffy is a total joy. Her dadykins Sir Charles the Magistrate is, brilliantly played by a suitably crusty A.E.Mathews.
Cousin Agnes Russell ably played by Fay Compton has to work as a servant and gets a job as a maid, for the cantankerous old miser Gordon Webb. Played delightfully by John Laurie looking a lot younger, than as Mr. Fraser the undertaker in Dad's Army.
George Cole is aptly named as the proper Herbert, Russell the timorous bank clerk, who has to rob his boss Mr. Wagstaffe.
It's a great shame that one of my favourite Welsh actors Hugh Griffith only has the most fleeting of cameos, as the practical joking uncle Henry Augustus Russell.
Charming and hilarious
HotToastyRag31 August 2022
You might not have heard of Laughter in Paradise, but try to find a copy and rent it. It's absolutely delightful. This British comedy features four pals who are given unusual conditions in order to inherit their share of their deceased friend's fortune. The writer of the will knew his friends extremely well, and he knew what would get under each one's skin the most.
For the straight-and-narrow citizen (Alistair Sim) who secretly writes crime novels, he has to spend four weeks in jail. For social snob Fay Compton, she has to throw her highbrow lifestyle aside and work as a servant in someone else's home. Meek and mild George Cole has to finally stand up to his boss at the bank using an unusual method. Guy Middleton, the playboy of the group, is given perhaps the most shocking task of all: marry the first single woman he comes across.
The premise is very funny, and the way it all plays out is even funnier. I couldn't stop laughing, and I was instantly charmed by all four unusual characters. This is the type of movie that could be remade every decade with a new cast and new tasks, and it could have even been turned into a television series with a different group of friends featured every season. If you are lucy enough to find a copy of this cute movie, you'll see a cameo from a pre-famous Audrey Hepburn as a cigarette girl. She definitely doesn't steal the show, though. Michael Pertwee and Jack Davies's screenplay leaves a lasting impression.
For the straight-and-narrow citizen (Alistair Sim) who secretly writes crime novels, he has to spend four weeks in jail. For social snob Fay Compton, she has to throw her highbrow lifestyle aside and work as a servant in someone else's home. Meek and mild George Cole has to finally stand up to his boss at the bank using an unusual method. Guy Middleton, the playboy of the group, is given perhaps the most shocking task of all: marry the first single woman he comes across.
The premise is very funny, and the way it all plays out is even funnier. I couldn't stop laughing, and I was instantly charmed by all four unusual characters. This is the type of movie that could be remade every decade with a new cast and new tasks, and it could have even been turned into a television series with a different group of friends featured every season. If you are lucy enough to find a copy of this cute movie, you'll see a cameo from a pre-famous Audrey Hepburn as a cigarette girl. She definitely doesn't steal the show, though. Michael Pertwee and Jack Davies's screenplay leaves a lasting impression.
Good idea not totally followed through
bob the moo10 May 2003
When well known practical joker and millionaire Henry Russell dies, his surviving relatives are called together for the will reading. The will leaves them each £50K if they can complete set tasks that go against their nature within a set time period. Simmon Russell must marry the first woman he meets after reading the will, Herbert must rob the bank he works at, Agnes must serve as a maid and Deniston must commit a crime and go to jail. As each goes off to try and complete their task they find that money is not all that is to be had in the course of time.
I taped this film on the strength of George Cole and Alastair Sim starring in it. The plot is quite clever like a twist on the old Brewser's Millions tale. In fact it clearly had potential but, after the initial set up the film has little to do. Most of the characters seem to be hanging around waiting for the final third of the film to happen to them and it is a little dry at times. The comedy is OK but rarely hilarious or really clever.
The delivery of laughs really comes down to the cast and not so much the material. Cole is quite good and is pitching well with good timing. Sim is the best one of the lot and his scenes tend to be some of the best. Middleton only served to make me think that Terry-Thomas would have been better in the caddish role, while Compton is really used as the moral `life lesson' part of the film.
Overall this is an enjoyable film one that I'm surprised hasn't been remade in some form yet by Hollywood. It could easily be a silly comedy with a B-grade ensemble cast and work well. However this flags at times and isn't as funny as I'd hoped it would be.
I taped this film on the strength of George Cole and Alastair Sim starring in it. The plot is quite clever like a twist on the old Brewser's Millions tale. In fact it clearly had potential but, after the initial set up the film has little to do. Most of the characters seem to be hanging around waiting for the final third of the film to happen to them and it is a little dry at times. The comedy is OK but rarely hilarious or really clever.
The delivery of laughs really comes down to the cast and not so much the material. Cole is quite good and is pitching well with good timing. Sim is the best one of the lot and his scenes tend to be some of the best. Middleton only served to make me think that Terry-Thomas would have been better in the caddish role, while Compton is really used as the moral `life lesson' part of the film.
Overall this is an enjoyable film one that I'm surprised hasn't been remade in some form yet by Hollywood. It could easily be a silly comedy with a B-grade ensemble cast and work well. However this flags at times and isn't as funny as I'd hoped it would be.
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