Cast
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Sid James
as Sid Boggle
Charles Hawtrey
as Charlie Muggins
Joan Sims
as Joan Fussey
Kenneth Williams
as Doctor Kenneth Soaper
Terry Scott
as Peter Potter
Barbara Windsor
as Babs
Hattie Jacques
as Miss Haggard
Bernard Bresslaw
as Bernie Lugg
Julian Holloway
as Jim Tanner
Dilys Laye
as Anthea Meeks
Peter Butterworth
as Josh Fiddler
Betty Marsden
as Harriet Potter
Trisha Noble
as Sally
Brian Oulton
as Mr. Short
Derek Francis
as Farmer
Crew
Director
- Gerald Thomas
Producer
- Peter Rogers
Reviews
CinemaSerf
"Boggle" (Sid James) and girlfriend "Fussey" (Joan Simms) decide to take a camping holiday with their best pals "Bernie" (Bernard Bresslaw) and "Anthea" (Dilys Laye). Now the boys reckon they have alighted on a nudist camp site, but sadly they got that wrong and after being fleeced by the owner (Peter Buttherworth) they embark on a series of escapades that introduce them to Kenneth Williams ("Dr. Soaper") reprising his doctor/matron relationship with Hattie Jacques and their bus-load of young nurses on a works holiday from their hospital. You can guess the rest as this innuendo-ridden slapstick extravaganza continues with incidents from just about every aspect of rural life packed in to varying degrees of comic effect. Though the punchlines are pretty clearly telegraphed, I found this to be one of the more natural and funnier outings for the gang. It's borderline farce a lot of the the time, and smutty as usual - but "Babs" (Barbara Windsor), "Peter" (Terry Scott) and his camping aficionado wife "Harriet" (Betty Marsden) all chip in a bit more substantially with the sub plots and that makes this a bit more entertaining. At the better end of the franchise, I'd say - and there's a goat!
Jul 24, 2023
Thematic Analysis
Carry On Camping represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Gerald Thomas brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1969, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Carry On Camping took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 124 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 37 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1969, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Carry On Camping shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Christmas in Carolina, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Carry On Camping subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like A Fish Called Wanda and The Count explore similar territory, Carry On Camping stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 29, 1969
- Runtime: 1h 28m
Where to Watch
