This was a big studio attempt to tap into the counter-culture movement. It attempts to be satiric, ironic, quirky, and off-beat. And it succeeds much of the time. The direction, editing, and sound can be witty, playing with the subject matter, situations, and setting. The comedy doesn't always work, the pace drags in places, and the characters get tedious at times riding their respective hobby-horses. But there's a lot of fun on the way, and a decent love story between antipathies, played by Suzanne Pleshette, and Ian McShane. You'll also see a lot of faces more familiar to you from TV of the era and succeeding decades. In the end, the movie does manage not to be bound by conventions of Hollywood storytelling. To know what I mean, you'll have to watch it all the way through yourself. Just know some of these 60s counter-culture films worked and some didn't. Those that didn't usually had one foot in the production code era and one foot in the cultural revolution that had not yet hit the suburbs yet, with a script seeming to be at war with itself. This is one film that worked and did not have these problems.
50 Reviews
Pretty good
preppy-32 January 2004
Comedy about a group of Americans on a 18 day (I think) tour of Europe.
Unlike some previous posters, I've never been to Europe, so watching this film was not like reliving old memories. On its own, this was a very pleasant movie. The script is not bad and the jokes are pretty funny. There are some real groaners too, but the good ones far outweigh them. And the cast is full of talented character actors giving their all.
The movie basically concentrates on a romance between the tour guide Charlie Cartwright (Ian McShane) and tourist Samantha Perkins (Suzanne Pleshette). Usually romance subplots in comedies are the kiss of death, but this one works. McShane is very handsome and Pleshette incredibly beautiful; the dialogue is well-written; they both give good performances and they have great chemistry with each other. It also is a good excuse to show all the romantic places in Europe (this was shot on location). And the romance has a surprising, realistic ending.
Another point of interest is an 18 year old girl Shelly (Hilary Thompson) meeting a guy her age Bo (Luke Halpin). Their fashions are VERY 60s and the dialoge is SO old-fashioned...but it's all interesting. Also a visit to Canaby Street in London (which was the place to be in the late 60s) is visually fascinating. Also Murray Hamilton's one liners throughout the movie are frequently hilarious.
They visit London, Holland, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Venice and end in Rome. I saw a widescreen print on TV in strong color and the movie just looked beautiful. Sometime it was like seeing a travelogue but an INTERESTING travelogue.
It's not a great movie but a pleasant one. You could do worse! Recommended.
Unlike some previous posters, I've never been to Europe, so watching this film was not like reliving old memories. On its own, this was a very pleasant movie. The script is not bad and the jokes are pretty funny. There are some real groaners too, but the good ones far outweigh them. And the cast is full of talented character actors giving their all.
The movie basically concentrates on a romance between the tour guide Charlie Cartwright (Ian McShane) and tourist Samantha Perkins (Suzanne Pleshette). Usually romance subplots in comedies are the kiss of death, but this one works. McShane is very handsome and Pleshette incredibly beautiful; the dialogue is well-written; they both give good performances and they have great chemistry with each other. It also is a good excuse to show all the romantic places in Europe (this was shot on location). And the romance has a surprising, realistic ending.
Another point of interest is an 18 year old girl Shelly (Hilary Thompson) meeting a guy her age Bo (Luke Halpin). Their fashions are VERY 60s and the dialoge is SO old-fashioned...but it's all interesting. Also a visit to Canaby Street in London (which was the place to be in the late 60s) is visually fascinating. Also Murray Hamilton's one liners throughout the movie are frequently hilarious.
They visit London, Holland, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Venice and end in Rome. I saw a widescreen print on TV in strong color and the movie just looked beautiful. Sometime it was like seeing a travelogue but an INTERESTING travelogue.
It's not a great movie but a pleasant one. You could do worse! Recommended.
Why do the wrong people travel?, to quote Noel Coward.
mark.waltz14 December 2021
Warning: Spoilers
There's a lot to be amused by In this ensemble comedy about a tour of Europe by a group of typical Americans, where the spouses are paired together by how they look together. Of course, glamour is provided for the leads, Suzanne Pleshette and Ian McShane. Norman Fell and Reva rose look like people you would see across the street or next door in your neighborhood, and the same goes for Murray Hamilton and Peggy Cass, bringing along a teenage daughter. Mildred Natwick is a finger wagging widow who begins to lighten up as she begins to have fun. The only real story is the romance that grows between Pleshette and McShane, mainly focusing on the slice of life situations that occur for each of the characters.
Fans of "Keeping Up Appearances" will be delighted to see Dame Patricia Rutledge as a British tour guide. This was the same year she won a Tony Award for the short-lived musical "Darling of the Day". Fell keeps repeating "Irma would have loved this" because his wife keeps disappearing, taking separate tours, and at one point, her boat passes his. It's a standing joke that becomes up more amusing each time. Too bad that Cass and Hamilton really have little to do although she does get laughs simply with the voice that audiences fell in love with in Auntie Mame
Not much here as far as a rich analogy is concerned because we seen stereotypical American tourist in Europe ever since the movies began, and of course while in various countries, they end up in tourist frequented restaurants where the specialty is hamburger. Stereotypical Europeans represent each country, and it's difficult not to laugh when they arrive in Switzerland greeted by yodeling. It's an amusing time killer, not much more, but anything with this ensemble, particularly Pleshette, is always a good thing. There are allegedly a ton of cameos here, but you have to be pretty sharp to point them out.
Fans of "Keeping Up Appearances" will be delighted to see Dame Patricia Rutledge as a British tour guide. This was the same year she won a Tony Award for the short-lived musical "Darling of the Day". Fell keeps repeating "Irma would have loved this" because his wife keeps disappearing, taking separate tours, and at one point, her boat passes his. It's a standing joke that becomes up more amusing each time. Too bad that Cass and Hamilton really have little to do although she does get laughs simply with the voice that audiences fell in love with in Auntie Mame
Not much here as far as a rich analogy is concerned because we seen stereotypical American tourist in Europe ever since the movies began, and of course while in various countries, they end up in tourist frequented restaurants where the specialty is hamburger. Stereotypical Europeans represent each country, and it's difficult not to laugh when they arrive in Switzerland greeted by yodeling. It's an amusing time killer, not much more, but anything with this ensemble, particularly Pleshette, is always a good thing. There are allegedly a ton of cameos here, but you have to be pretty sharp to point them out.
A fun film filled with a lot of great character actors
allenblank31 May 2003
I was nine when I first saw this film, when it first came out, and loved it ever since. Funny even with it's vintage 60's songs, and an appearance of pop star Donavan, it hasn't dated at all. In fact it's more like a time capsule of it's time, which was 1969.
The film is about a bunch of Americans taking a european tour is ten days. We have a large assortment of characters played by some expert character actors. There's the WWII veteran played by Michael (My Big Fat Greek Wedding) Constantine who has taking the tour because it goes to the same places he went to in the army. Then there is the typical ugly American (Murray Hamilton) who was forced to come on this tour by his wife(Peggy Cass), he hates every minute of it till Rome where.. no you got to see it for yourself. There is a poor husband, Norman (Mr. Roper) Fell who gets separated from his wife (Reva Rose) when she gets on the wrong tour bus and tries to find a way to get her back. Then there is Miss Sam (Suzanne Pleshette) who has decided to take a vacation from her fiancé, to get her head straight, but then becomes the object of tour guide Charlie(Ian McShane)'s advances. Also wonderful in the film is Sandy Baron, Mildred Natwick, Pamila Britton, Marty Ingles, and Aubrey Morris.
It was directed by Mel Stuart who followed this up with the classic, "Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Company". I ended up seeing this film three times in the theaters.It gets better with every viewing.
The film is about a bunch of Americans taking a european tour is ten days. We have a large assortment of characters played by some expert character actors. There's the WWII veteran played by Michael (My Big Fat Greek Wedding) Constantine who has taking the tour because it goes to the same places he went to in the army. Then there is the typical ugly American (Murray Hamilton) who was forced to come on this tour by his wife(Peggy Cass), he hates every minute of it till Rome where.. no you got to see it for yourself. There is a poor husband, Norman (Mr. Roper) Fell who gets separated from his wife (Reva Rose) when she gets on the wrong tour bus and tries to find a way to get her back. Then there is Miss Sam (Suzanne Pleshette) who has decided to take a vacation from her fiancé, to get her head straight, but then becomes the object of tour guide Charlie(Ian McShane)'s advances. Also wonderful in the film is Sandy Baron, Mildred Natwick, Pamila Britton, Marty Ingles, and Aubrey Morris.
It was directed by Mel Stuart who followed this up with the classic, "Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Company". I ended up seeing this film three times in the theaters.It gets better with every viewing.
Mildly fun; watchable; has some good moments
shakspryn18 October 2017
Suzanne Pleshette stars and looks great here. Lots of good character actors, including Michael Constantine. One thing I notice, like other 1960's movies, this one doesn't mind basing gags on the concept of pretty young women and lecherous older guys who would like to chase them.
Taking the movie as a whole, it's worth watching once: for Suzanne, the European scenery, the sometimes funny scenes, and a few affecting ones. Murray Hamilton stands out as especially good in this movie. I bought this on DVD; to me, it is more of a catch-it-on-cable type movie, in terms of value.
Taking the movie as a whole, it's worth watching once: for Suzanne, the European scenery, the sometimes funny scenes, and a few affecting ones. Murray Hamilton stands out as especially good in this movie. I bought this on DVD; to me, it is more of a catch-it-on-cable type movie, in terms of value.
A gas, at times funny, but an awkward assemblage of jokes and a pale romance
secondtake20 May 2011
If It's Tuesday, This Must Be Belgium (1969)
A complete throwaway, and delightful, entertainment, with a charming Suzanne Pleshette as the sporadic leading lady in a romantic comedy set all over Europe. As the tour bus glides its way through the usual hot spots, in a typical (to this day) whirlwind race through major capitals from London to Rome, we see a playful satire of down home American types out of their element. It has funny moments, and some good comic actors, but it's almost thrown together and the story, whatever its short laughs, is pretty thin stuff.
But then, a lot of comedies have no desire to be great films, and don't even worry about plot so much as finding some way under heaven to get as many funny situations in an hour and a half as possible. Pleshette I think is meant to play a kind of simpler American Audrey Hepburn, and she really does have a spark and sincerity on screen that works. She falls in love with the tour guide, a sharply dressed British fellow who seems more 1963 than 1969 (picture John Lennon by 1969) played by Ian McShane, an appealing but easily caricatured type. The rest of the cast is only present for gags and one liners, including a few very cameo cameos that get a lot of attention but are hardly worth watching the film for.
The one exception, though, is a complete run through of Donovan singing "Lord of the Reedy River" in his faint precious tenor, alone on his guitar, surrounded by a room full of strung out kids dressed in perfect hippie clothes, a poster of Che on the wall. The movie makers knew this was a small coup, Donovan being at the time still a famous remnant of the early folk and folk rock movement (and a famous part of the Bob Dylan tour of England in 1965). A crude youtube version (with subtitles) is here: http://youtu.be/7M4D2B18cz8.
Another reviewer notes that this is a truly "retro" film and what they really mean is that this isn't retro at all but it's the real deal, 1969 in 1969, and is a kind of capsule of some characteristic aspects of the time. It's a frivolous version of those scenes, from the exaggerated Italian extended family in Venice to the dancing to Swiss traditional music, but it does show a common liberation of the time, including a painfully sexist amateur photographer who photographs girls in miniskirts in each and every country as a kind of countdown. Of course, the director makes the movie equally sexist in the process, gawking at each of the models (victims?) as it goes. Harmless fun for some, cheesy demeaning distraction for others, and typical of many 1960s movies either way.
Overall it's fun and funny and a joyful film, rather upbeat in more ways than just the humor. It's not New Hollywood, there is no socially cutting edge here, and no filming innovations (aside from some playful fast edits). But it tours the viewer through some wonderful, if well known, parts of Western Europe and has some laughs. And it has a beautifully unexpected ending, very poignant after all. Thank you Suzanne Pleshette.
A complete throwaway, and delightful, entertainment, with a charming Suzanne Pleshette as the sporadic leading lady in a romantic comedy set all over Europe. As the tour bus glides its way through the usual hot spots, in a typical (to this day) whirlwind race through major capitals from London to Rome, we see a playful satire of down home American types out of their element. It has funny moments, and some good comic actors, but it's almost thrown together and the story, whatever its short laughs, is pretty thin stuff.
But then, a lot of comedies have no desire to be great films, and don't even worry about plot so much as finding some way under heaven to get as many funny situations in an hour and a half as possible. Pleshette I think is meant to play a kind of simpler American Audrey Hepburn, and she really does have a spark and sincerity on screen that works. She falls in love with the tour guide, a sharply dressed British fellow who seems more 1963 than 1969 (picture John Lennon by 1969) played by Ian McShane, an appealing but easily caricatured type. The rest of the cast is only present for gags and one liners, including a few very cameo cameos that get a lot of attention but are hardly worth watching the film for.
The one exception, though, is a complete run through of Donovan singing "Lord of the Reedy River" in his faint precious tenor, alone on his guitar, surrounded by a room full of strung out kids dressed in perfect hippie clothes, a poster of Che on the wall. The movie makers knew this was a small coup, Donovan being at the time still a famous remnant of the early folk and folk rock movement (and a famous part of the Bob Dylan tour of England in 1965). A crude youtube version (with subtitles) is here: http://youtu.be/7M4D2B18cz8.
Another reviewer notes that this is a truly "retro" film and what they really mean is that this isn't retro at all but it's the real deal, 1969 in 1969, and is a kind of capsule of some characteristic aspects of the time. It's a frivolous version of those scenes, from the exaggerated Italian extended family in Venice to the dancing to Swiss traditional music, but it does show a common liberation of the time, including a painfully sexist amateur photographer who photographs girls in miniskirts in each and every country as a kind of countdown. Of course, the director makes the movie equally sexist in the process, gawking at each of the models (victims?) as it goes. Harmless fun for some, cheesy demeaning distraction for others, and typical of many 1960s movies either way.
Overall it's fun and funny and a joyful film, rather upbeat in more ways than just the humor. It's not New Hollywood, there is no socially cutting edge here, and no filming innovations (aside from some playful fast edits). But it tours the viewer through some wonderful, if well known, parts of Western Europe and has some laughs. And it has a beautifully unexpected ending, very poignant after all. Thank you Suzanne Pleshette.
The title tells it all...fun at the expense of some tired tourists...
Doylenf28 August 2006
If nothing else, IF IT'S TUESDAY, THIS MUST BE BELGIUM serves as a nice travelogue for any armchair traveler to enjoy with a glass of wine (or beer, if that's your taste!) It's a funny, uncomplicated look at a bevy of assorted American tourists doing a quick tour of several foreign countries--and the various humorous situations stemming from just such a tour.
Funniest bit has one of them (Reva Rose) getting on the wrong tour bus and spending the rest of the film trying to catch up to her husband. SUZANNE PLESHETTE attracts the attention of tour guide IAN McSHANE, so there's love interest going on amid the comical situations.
Among the other tourists are MILDRED NATWICK, MURRAY HAMILTON and PEGGY CASS. It's all in good fun and entertaining enough whether you've been on such a trip or not.
Trivia note: The N.Y. Times noted that it was appropriate for this one to wind up at Radio City Music Hall during the height of the summer season, since that's where most tired tourists went to see a show in New York.
Funniest bit has one of them (Reva Rose) getting on the wrong tour bus and spending the rest of the film trying to catch up to her husband. SUZANNE PLESHETTE attracts the attention of tour guide IAN McSHANE, so there's love interest going on amid the comical situations.
Among the other tourists are MILDRED NATWICK, MURRAY HAMILTON and PEGGY CASS. It's all in good fun and entertaining enough whether you've been on such a trip or not.
Trivia note: The N.Y. Times noted that it was appropriate for this one to wind up at Radio City Music Hall during the height of the summer season, since that's where most tired tourists went to see a show in New York.
The mid-20th century American tour idea is long worn out and tiring
SimonJack29 January 2021
"if It's Tuesday, This Must Be Belgium" is a comedy film about an American tourist group traveling to see Europe. And when one says Europe, it means trying to cram as many countries and cities as possible into however many days. In this case, it's nine countries in 18 days. And, it's by bus most of the time, with a short cruise on the Rhine River in Germany and a gondola ride in Venice, Italy.
None of the people knew anyone else, but they all come together to take their dream vacation. Some saved for years for the trip. Some have different stories. One is a veteran returning nearly 15 years after the war and hoping to look up a woman he had met during the war. One guy is a kleptomaniac, or souvenir collector. Another will look up distant relatives in Italy. Suzanne Pleshette plays Samantha Perkins who's on the trip to find out if she really loves the guy back home enough to marry him. And the tour guide is a playboy, Charlie Cartwright, who knows his stuff.
The film could almost serve as a travel docu-drama with a light touch. The comedy is there but ever so lightly. To call it a romance is a stretch. This was probably of interest in the age when Americans dreamed about such travel. It was a type of craze for a couple decades in the mid-20th century. Not that Americans ever stopped touring, but the crammed tour group type of travel gradually phased down to tour groups forming in the states and then going to two or three countries in 10 days to two weeks. Many others began taking in just one country at a time and traveling alone or as couples or families to visit and appreciate one culture a little better - and enjoy it more.
In modern times, specialty tours and cruises are the most fun and best way to travel. I've been to several areas of China on a three-week hiking tour, been to the Orient twice, took pilgrimages to eastern Europe and the Middle East, and cruised the Yangtse River, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and to Alaska. And, I saw and traveled most of Western Europe while serving 2 ½ years in the U.S. Army.
This film has quite a good cast. It has a smattering of humor here and there, but nothing very funny and no exceptional acting. The best thing about it is the occasional good scenery and locales. Those who enjoy travel may enjoy it some. But well into the 21st century now, many more probably won't find it very interesting.
None of the people knew anyone else, but they all come together to take their dream vacation. Some saved for years for the trip. Some have different stories. One is a veteran returning nearly 15 years after the war and hoping to look up a woman he had met during the war. One guy is a kleptomaniac, or souvenir collector. Another will look up distant relatives in Italy. Suzanne Pleshette plays Samantha Perkins who's on the trip to find out if she really loves the guy back home enough to marry him. And the tour guide is a playboy, Charlie Cartwright, who knows his stuff.
The film could almost serve as a travel docu-drama with a light touch. The comedy is there but ever so lightly. To call it a romance is a stretch. This was probably of interest in the age when Americans dreamed about such travel. It was a type of craze for a couple decades in the mid-20th century. Not that Americans ever stopped touring, but the crammed tour group type of travel gradually phased down to tour groups forming in the states and then going to two or three countries in 10 days to two weeks. Many others began taking in just one country at a time and traveling alone or as couples or families to visit and appreciate one culture a little better - and enjoy it more.
In modern times, specialty tours and cruises are the most fun and best way to travel. I've been to several areas of China on a three-week hiking tour, been to the Orient twice, took pilgrimages to eastern Europe and the Middle East, and cruised the Yangtse River, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and to Alaska. And, I saw and traveled most of Western Europe while serving 2 ½ years in the U.S. Army.
This film has quite a good cast. It has a smattering of humor here and there, but nothing very funny and no exceptional acting. The best thing about it is the occasional good scenery and locales. Those who enjoy travel may enjoy it some. But well into the 21st century now, many more probably won't find it very interesting.
European Travel before the EU and the euro,
dglink8 June 2008
While not a laugh-out-loud comedy, "If It's Tuesday, This Must Be Belgium" is a humorous, affectionate take on group travel that will resonate with anyone who has been on a European bus tour. Ian McShane is the British guide for World Wind Tours Number 225, which will sweep through nine countries in eighteen days. McShane's American tourists include such comedic talents as Norman Fell, Marty Ingels, Reva Rose, Peggy Cass, Pamela Britton, and Sandy Baron. Although not well known for comedy, Murray Hamilton, Michael Constantine, and Mildred Natwick are spot-on funny as well and fill out the bus-load of stereotypes. Murray Hamilton stands out as the congenital cynic who was dragged away from his comfy couch for the trip. Hamilton's expressions and delivery capture the feelings of every male who has submitted to his wife's desire for a cultural experience in a foreign land.
The photography by Vilis Lapenieks captures the beauty of a Europe that flits by faster than the group can either absorb or appreciate. Strangely enough, only the Marty Ingels character, who is obsessed with photographing beautiful women to inspire jealousy among his male friends back home, appears to carry a camera. Predictably, a romantic liaison develops between tourist Suzanne Pleshette, who is as lovely as ever, and guide McShane. The Pleshette-McShane relationship, however, shines in contrast to the bloodless attraction between teens Hilary Thompson and Luke Halpin, who had better chemistry with dolphins. However, when the movie hits its target, it is engaging and oddly nostalgic, which the wistful title tune by Donovan underscores. For many, a quick glimpse of European wonders is a once in a lifetime experience whose memories must endure, and McShane emphasizes to Pleshette that tourists like her get an enormous return for their money.
Unfortunately, younger viewers may not react to the satire and sharp observations, because the film is firmly set in the 1960's. Veterans of World War II are increasingly rare and few make trips back to the battlefields. Hotels no longer monogram their towels for sticky fingered guests. Carnaby Street is no longer a mecca for mod fashion, and inoculations are unnecessary for European trips. However, anyone who has crossed the pond will recognize that Rome will never be a place to rent a car, American franchises abound in European cities, and yodeling is still an acquired taste. "If It's Tuesday, This Must Be Belgium" is a time capsule for those who want to relive or catch a glimpse of European travel before the EU, the euro, and the proliferation of the English language homogenized the continent and stole some of the fun away. With a bit of nostalgia, some talented comedians, and director Mel Stuart's pacing, which is nearly as fast as the tour bus, the film is gentle fun and above average entertainment.
The photography by Vilis Lapenieks captures the beauty of a Europe that flits by faster than the group can either absorb or appreciate. Strangely enough, only the Marty Ingels character, who is obsessed with photographing beautiful women to inspire jealousy among his male friends back home, appears to carry a camera. Predictably, a romantic liaison develops between tourist Suzanne Pleshette, who is as lovely as ever, and guide McShane. The Pleshette-McShane relationship, however, shines in contrast to the bloodless attraction between teens Hilary Thompson and Luke Halpin, who had better chemistry with dolphins. However, when the movie hits its target, it is engaging and oddly nostalgic, which the wistful title tune by Donovan underscores. For many, a quick glimpse of European wonders is a once in a lifetime experience whose memories must endure, and McShane emphasizes to Pleshette that tourists like her get an enormous return for their money.
Unfortunately, younger viewers may not react to the satire and sharp observations, because the film is firmly set in the 1960's. Veterans of World War II are increasingly rare and few make trips back to the battlefields. Hotels no longer monogram their towels for sticky fingered guests. Carnaby Street is no longer a mecca for mod fashion, and inoculations are unnecessary for European trips. However, anyone who has crossed the pond will recognize that Rome will never be a place to rent a car, American franchises abound in European cities, and yodeling is still an acquired taste. "If It's Tuesday, This Must Be Belgium" is a time capsule for those who want to relive or catch a glimpse of European travel before the EU, the euro, and the proliferation of the English language homogenized the continent and stole some of the fun away. With a bit of nostalgia, some talented comedians, and director Mel Stuart's pacing, which is nearly as fast as the tour bus, the film is gentle fun and above average entertainment.
pleasant and well-meaning, but not entirely successful
myriamlenys17 February 2019
Warning: Spoilers
The movie is a comedy about a group of American tourists on a whirlwind tour of about a dozen countries. It's not entirely bad : protagonists Ian McShane and Suzanne Pleshette give fine, charming performances, against a constantly changing background which includes some of the most beautiful and iconic sights in Europe. The general tone of the movie is pleasantly friendly and humane, too.
The movie is also wise enough to avoid a facile "Happy end", choosing to finish on a mature and bitter-sweet note.
However, for a comedy it's not particularly heavy on the jokes and gags. If you've got a lively sense of humor, it's entirely possible that you'll be able to think up five or six additional jokes for every quarter of an hour that passes - and some of these jokes might even be better. Compare and contrast, say, to a movie like "Allez France", which lines up a number of clichés about the French and English national character plus a number of clichés about London, and then starts riffing on them at breakneck speed.
As a Belgian I was amused to discover that the recommendations in the guide books circa 1960, 1970 ("Top ten things to see in Belgium") were pretty much the same that can be found today anno Domini 2019. Like one of my old teachers used to say : "If humanity destroys itself in a nuclear holocaust, only two things will remain : scorpions and tourist tips in guide books"...
The movie is also wise enough to avoid a facile "Happy end", choosing to finish on a mature and bitter-sweet note.
However, for a comedy it's not particularly heavy on the jokes and gags. If you've got a lively sense of humor, it's entirely possible that you'll be able to think up five or six additional jokes for every quarter of an hour that passes - and some of these jokes might even be better. Compare and contrast, say, to a movie like "Allez France", which lines up a number of clichés about the French and English national character plus a number of clichés about London, and then starts riffing on them at breakneck speed.
As a Belgian I was amused to discover that the recommendations in the guide books circa 1960, 1970 ("Top ten things to see in Belgium") were pretty much the same that can be found today anno Domini 2019. Like one of my old teachers used to say : "If humanity destroys itself in a nuclear holocaust, only two things will remain : scorpions and tourist tips in guide books"...
Scenery isn't enough
antfitz13 May 2021
Terrific ensemble of character actors from the mid 1960's
GJF1189 November 1998
This film was actually an outgrowth from a story on the TV show "60 Minutes" which followed a high-speed tour through tourist highlights in Europe. The humor holds up very well, and the film now provides a wonderful chance to see some marvelous character actors from the mid-1960's back when they were still in their prime.
If It's Tuesday, This Must Be Belgium was unevenly entertaining
tavm29 November 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Having been long curious about this movie because of its unusual title, I finally checked this out from the library as something to watch with Mom who claimed to have seen this before. I mainly recognized two stars in this one: Suzanne Pleshette and Norman Fell. Ms. Pleshette is at her most beautiful and charming especially when she's talking to the British tour guide. Mr. Fell's most amusing scene is when he starts dancing with a group of beautiful ladies on stage when his wife-who had been on another tour bus most of the time-suddenly shows up! There's also a kleptomaniac and a lecherous photographer who takes pics of pretty women claiming to whoever he's writing his letters to that they're his conquests! That klepto sequences are among the funniest of scenes while the lech picture-taking ones provided some laughs from Mom though not as much from me (I was mainly bemused by those scenes). Anyway, If It's Tuesday, This Must Be Belgium was funny in spots with some touching scenes though mostly uneven as entertainment. In fact, part of me was a little confused by the scenes involving a man visiting some relatives in Italy...
As lousy a trip as its title suggests...
moonspinner5527 January 2008
Sketch-like comedy with mod trappings has a group of griping American tourists (including Murray Hamilton, Norman Fell and Mildred Natwick) taking in the sights of Great Britian and Europe by bus, each displaying his or her own (irritating) idiosyncrasies. Crass picture filled with characters one would hope to avoid in this lifetime, although Suzanne Pleshette's beauty is a visual compensation. The jokes are obvious, and director Mel Stuart can't wring any fresh laughs out of them--although he does manage to shoehorn into this scenario everyone from John Cassavetes to pop singer Donovan! Wears thin quickly. Remade as a television movie in 1987. *1/2 from ****
A character actors showcase.
yenlo17 August 1999
What makes this 1969 movie so entertaining is the collection of character actors who are given an opportunity to showcase their talents. Lots of little stories about a group of American tourist who are essentially barnstorming their way through Europe on a tour bus make up the plot. Each one of them has some special experience in one of their many tour stops.
This is one of those movies that can be watched over and over and never gets old. It is doubtful that a film like this could be made now because there just doesn't seem to be the same kind of character actors today who could appear and deliver in small scenes like the performers in this movie do.
This is one of those movies that can be watched over and over and never gets old. It is doubtful that a film like this could be made now because there just doesn't seem to be the same kind of character actors today who could appear and deliver in small scenes like the performers in this movie do.
9 countries in 18 days (in less than 100 minutes!), a comedy with lots of familiar faces
jacobs-greenwood2 July 2017
Warning: Spoilers
... but no movie stars in key roles, unless you (graciously) count Murray Hamilton, Norman Fell or Mildred Natwick. There are cameos by Robert Vaughn, John Cassavetes, Ben Gazzara, Vittorio De Sica and Anita Ekberg, but the main roles were played by yet-to-be (TV) stars - like Ian McShane and Suzanne Pleshette - and other somewhat unknown (at least today) character actors like Sandy Baron, Michael Constantine, Pamela Britton, Reva Rose, Marty Ingels and Peggy Cass.
The story is about a busload of Americans tourists in Europe that get a surface-level road & boat tour of many of the continent's highlights in less than 3 weeks time. Charlie Cartwright (McShane) is their guide, who is necessarily part parent, nanny, psychiatrist, coach, friend and even lover to his charges, a job he's apparently done for more than a dozen years. Kind of like a sailor with a girl in every port, charming Charlie's off-duty exploits are frequently interrupted by various problems that crop up during this, his 225th tour.
Of the tourists, Suzanne Pleshette as Samantha Perkins gets most of the screen time, and the film's title could have been "Prudence returns to Rome all grown up" after her 'Adventure' with Troy Donahue in 1962. She being the only young single woman on the bus, Charlie flirts with her throughout but doesn't make any progress until late in the movie, stereotypically after getting her drunk. In fact, the filmmakers exploit quite a few stereotypes throughout the movie, though none offensively even when available.
Even at only 98 minutes, it drags a bit when Donovan - who wrote the title song, which refers to the routine nature of the tour - sings "Lord of the Reedy River" (catch it on youtube, if you'd like) at a youth hostel. All in all it's a fairly harmless romp and there are some sweet scenes, but probably too few humorous ones to recommend it very highly.
The story is about a busload of Americans tourists in Europe that get a surface-level road & boat tour of many of the continent's highlights in less than 3 weeks time. Charlie Cartwright (McShane) is their guide, who is necessarily part parent, nanny, psychiatrist, coach, friend and even lover to his charges, a job he's apparently done for more than a dozen years. Kind of like a sailor with a girl in every port, charming Charlie's off-duty exploits are frequently interrupted by various problems that crop up during this, his 225th tour.
Of the tourists, Suzanne Pleshette as Samantha Perkins gets most of the screen time, and the film's title could have been "Prudence returns to Rome all grown up" after her 'Adventure' with Troy Donahue in 1962. She being the only young single woman on the bus, Charlie flirts with her throughout but doesn't make any progress until late in the movie, stereotypically after getting her drunk. In fact, the filmmakers exploit quite a few stereotypes throughout the movie, though none offensively even when available.
Even at only 98 minutes, it drags a bit when Donovan - who wrote the title song, which refers to the routine nature of the tour - sings "Lord of the Reedy River" (catch it on youtube, if you'd like) at a youth hostel. All in all it's a fairly harmless romp and there are some sweet scenes, but probably too few humorous ones to recommend it very highly.
~ Finally got to see this film !
cmdahoust25 January 2018
Warning: Spoilers
I have heard of this film for a number of years, but finally had to opportunity to see it via DVR. The title of this film has always intrigued me and made me curious about this film. I really enjoy movies from the 60's & 70's and this one was no exception. As other's have mentioned it's a great time capsule from the 1960's and for baby boomers it will take you back. Yes, it is dated but holds up well. Some of the things that stood out to me were the circumstances the characters got themselves into that would not happen today (the man loosing his wife for a few days - i.e. no cell phones). Having traveled to Europe several times, I enjoyed this film because it brought me back to places I have seen and makes me want to go back again sometime for some new experiences.
The remark by the character played by Peggy Cass at the beginning of the tour about Europe being so different than the U.S. reminded me of John Travolta in Pulp Fiction comparing Europe to the U.S. 'They have the same things we have, only their things are a little different. ..~ Chow.
All-Star cast in entertaining "American" comedy
mdm-118 October 2004
An all-star cast of 1960s comedians embark on a guided tour to see 9 European countries in 18 days. A very attractive "pre-Bob" Suzanne Plechette is the focus of a young tour guide (and the film), who sees the successful American tourist as his ultimate amorous challenge. Through many very funny situations involving the colorful cast, the two leads eventually fall in love. At the end of the trip Suzanne must choose between champagne and caviar in her metropolitan US home or cheese with cheap wine with a sincere, but common man in Europe. What would Leona do?
This lighthearted entertainment certainly reflects the times it was filmed in (1969). American tourists had rightfully earned a certain "reputation" regarding their adventures in Europe (including the affairs of American servicemen in WWII). I was put off more by the constant negative remarks from the Suzanne Plechette character. She acted like a total snob and alienated herself from the other tour members (and the audience) with her superior attitude. I think that not even Bob Newhart (as the bumbling psychiatrist) is man enough for this over-the-top emancipated "woman". This major flaw overshadows an otherwise very pleasant film.
This lighthearted entertainment certainly reflects the times it was filmed in (1969). American tourists had rightfully earned a certain "reputation" regarding their adventures in Europe (including the affairs of American servicemen in WWII). I was put off more by the constant negative remarks from the Suzanne Plechette character. She acted like a total snob and alienated herself from the other tour members (and the audience) with her superior attitude. I think that not even Bob Newhart (as the bumbling psychiatrist) is man enough for this over-the-top emancipated "woman". This major flaw overshadows an otherwise very pleasant film.
What a waste
richard-178729 June 2014
As you can see, others - not many others, granted, but others - liked this movie. I'll leave it to you to figure out why.
It's true there are some fine comedians here, like Peggy Cass and Norman Fell. But they aren't given anything interesting to do. Cass's character only writes postcards, and with each new city, remarks on how it is spelled in the local language. That's not enough to create a funny character. Fell has no more to work with.
The other characters have no more to them, and so no more chance to be funny or interesting.
In general, the jokes are lame, and there are the usual ethnic stereotypes.
This sort of rapid bus excursion through Europe, which still exists today, could provide all sorts of humor. But you don't get it here.
What a shame.
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The one thing I will say for this movie is that, since it was shot in various European locations in the late 1960s, it does give you a chance to see certain tourist sites like Venice as they once existed but now, overrun with tourists, can no longer be seen.
Other than that, it seems hard to believe that a major studio like MGM could have released something that looks so underdone.
It's true there are some fine comedians here, like Peggy Cass and Norman Fell. But they aren't given anything interesting to do. Cass's character only writes postcards, and with each new city, remarks on how it is spelled in the local language. That's not enough to create a funny character. Fell has no more to work with.
The other characters have no more to them, and so no more chance to be funny or interesting.
In general, the jokes are lame, and there are the usual ethnic stereotypes.
This sort of rapid bus excursion through Europe, which still exists today, could provide all sorts of humor. But you don't get it here.
What a shame.
-----------------------
The one thing I will say for this movie is that, since it was shot in various European locations in the late 1960s, it does give you a chance to see certain tourist sites like Venice as they once existed but now, overrun with tourists, can no longer be seen.
Other than that, it seems hard to believe that a major studio like MGM could have released something that looks so underdone.
This movie has to come out on DVD!
jemdoll16 March 2005
Even though I was born a couple of decades after this movie was released, I wanted to watch it when it played on TV because it was given a perfect 5/5 rating by my local newspaper's TV listings. When I tuned in, I was even more excited when I found out that it was a David Wolper and Mel Stuart collaboration because I really loved 'Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.' It's a shame that 'If It's Tuesday This Must Be Belgium' is not available on DVD. Even though it was made about 30 years ago, the misadventures of the ensemble cast are as funny as ever. The fine balance between the witty humor and acerbic banter in this movie is something that is rare in movies today. The only movies that come close are a few of Wes Anderson's (Rushmore, Royal Tenenbaums, The Life Aquatic), but instead of being faux retro, 'If It's Tuesday This Must Be Belgium' really is retro. It shows all of Europe's fabled landmarks in the tongue-and-cheek manner that you can't get from any movie unless it really was made in 1969. I liked the part when the group was at a cheese market in Amsterdam and the tour guide says, "There's an auction of gouda cheeses and edam cheeses. And pretty good-a edam cheeses they are." That is like so corny it's funny. After watching this movie, I actually did want to take a European bus tour! But the best thing about this movie is its great cast, particularly the beautiful Suzanne Pleshette and the devilishly handsome Ian McShane.
Three good things
Tashtago6 April 2020
Why is it just so good?
charlesfrappier3 November 2003
I have no idea. But I know that I first saw that movie as a child, shortly after it came out, and never stopped loving it. I think the best word to describe the entire film is "colorful". The cast is, the characters are, the cinematography is, the script is. I bought a VHS copy a few years back and every 6 months or so, I just have to pop it in, jump into bed with my wife and a bowl of popcorn and enjoy it again. The movie hasn't aged well at all but as another reviewer said, it's a pure time capsule of 1969 and that in itself is a great positive attribute.
Great Title - Entertaining Film
vogun-1756325 March 2021
The film is not a cinematic gem, but a bit of enjoyable 60's fluff.
It rolls along at a pace and doesn't let up, much like the tour party visiting the European cities. Unfortunately there is not too much about the actual places, but that's not why we are watching this film.
The ensemble of actors all work well, although I'm not too sure about the cameo roles. For example, blink and you'll miss Senta Berger, Joan Collins, John Cassavetes, Ben Gazarra and so on, but then again, that's the fun perhaps.. As the for the main parts, I thought Suzanne Pleshette was the best, trying to resist the attention of the tour guide (Ian McShane), who has a "girl in every port" but others actors were worthy contributors too.
If you want a 60's film then this just about hits most bases, with clothes (Carnaby Street), Music (including Donovan for one tune), light heartedness, a few hippies (sharing a smoke), love interest (without nudity), old vehicles etc. Your choice. Me? I enjoyed the ride/tour, and was exactly what I was looking for.
It rolls along at a pace and doesn't let up, much like the tour party visiting the European cities. Unfortunately there is not too much about the actual places, but that's not why we are watching this film.
The ensemble of actors all work well, although I'm not too sure about the cameo roles. For example, blink and you'll miss Senta Berger, Joan Collins, John Cassavetes, Ben Gazarra and so on, but then again, that's the fun perhaps.. As the for the main parts, I thought Suzanne Pleshette was the best, trying to resist the attention of the tour guide (Ian McShane), who has a "girl in every port" but others actors were worthy contributors too.
If you want a 60's film then this just about hits most bases, with clothes (Carnaby Street), Music (including Donovan for one tune), light heartedness, a few hippies (sharing a smoke), love interest (without nudity), old vehicles etc. Your choice. Me? I enjoyed the ride/tour, and was exactly what I was looking for.
Wallace Arnold tours meets 'Its a MAD MAD MAD World'
Edu-1628 April 2003
Well when I last saw this one I was wearing Green check trousers and an Orange nylon jumper. Got to be at least 25 years. Ouch. But this one has worn rather better than me.
From memory I was expecting a sort of American Carry On movie - and I suppose this isn't a bad comparison. But the jokes are still funny - quite sharp infact at times. The acting isn't too OTT - no Kenneth Williams mugging here - and the scenery of an as yet unspoilt Europe was a nice reminder of what Europe used to be like.
Yes - the plot is pretty 'souffle' (light, sags in the middle) - but Ian McShane holds it together. Infact , both me and the wife were at a loss as to why I.M. never made it mega-big. He had a lot going for him back then, and he's aged well.
Worth a watch - should bring back some memories for any who first got to know Europe on a coach tour (Wallace Arnold as in my case).
From memory I was expecting a sort of American Carry On movie - and I suppose this isn't a bad comparison. But the jokes are still funny - quite sharp infact at times. The acting isn't too OTT - no Kenneth Williams mugging here - and the scenery of an as yet unspoilt Europe was a nice reminder of what Europe used to be like.
Yes - the plot is pretty 'souffle' (light, sags in the middle) - but Ian McShane holds it together. Infact , both me and the wife were at a loss as to why I.M. never made it mega-big. He had a lot going for him back then, and he's aged well.
Worth a watch - should bring back some memories for any who first got to know Europe on a coach tour (Wallace Arnold as in my case).
A classic and a gem!
Gunn28 May 2008
I've been waiting for years for this gem to come out on DVD. Now I have my own copy and I still love this film. One of the many reasons I love it is that the year it was released (1970) I took almost the same tour; we also hit Paris, France. It's quite accurate and I love the humor. You can't put American tourists in one category. They are as varied as all Americans are. Taking a speed tour of Europe can be exhausting, but oh, the memories. Most will return on a more relaxed itinerary. What a great cast too! I agreed with most ALL the above reviews save the negative ones. Pleshette's character was not snobby, nor a complainer. She was friendly to the other tourists. Although many complained, by the end of the film a good time was had by all the tourists. I would've enjoyed traveling with this cast of tourists, but not with anyone who thought them boorish. I highly recommend this terrific little classic to anyone, tourist or homebody.
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