Cast
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Phil Silvers
as Sergeant Nocker
Kenneth Williams
as Commandant Maximilian Burger
Jim Dale
as Bertram Oliphant 'Bo' West
Charles Hawtrey
as Captain Le Pice
Joan Sims
as Zig-Zig
Angela Douglas
as Lady Jane Ponsonby
Peter Butterworth
as Simpson
Bernard Bresslaw
as Sheikh Abdul Abulbul
Anita Harris
as Corktip
John Bluthal
as Corporal Clotski
William Mervyn
as Sir Cyril Ponsonby
Peter Gilmore
as Captain Humphrey Bagshaw
Julian Holloway
as Ticket Collector
Larry Taylor
as Riff
William Hurndell
as Raff
Crew
Director
- Gerald Thomas
Producer
- Peter Rogers
Reviews
John Chard
Mustapha Leek!
Originally released under the title Follow That Camel, Carry On Follow That Camel is the 14th entry in the long running series. Story plays out as a historical parody of the Beau Geste type of movies, thrusting Jim Dale and Peter Butterworth into the French Foreign Legion. There they are at the mercy of Commandant Maximilian Burger (Kenny Williams) and Sergeant Nocker (Phil Silvers brought in to try and boost American ticket sales).
Japery is prominent as the not so intrepid Legionnaires get involved with an angry army of Bedouins led by Sheikh Abdul Abulbul (Bernard Bresslaw). Joan Sims has a minor role as a big cleavage landlady, while it's Angela Douglas snagging the main gal role as Lady Jane Ponsonby, with a running gag of her sexual innocence being mined for all it's worth. It's actually a better film than the iffy reputation afforded it. True, missing big hitters like Sid James and Hattie Jacques is felt, but Silvers is ebullient playing a Bilko character, while it's nice to see the excellent Jim Dale bag the English lead and not letting anyone down.
It sits somewhere in the middle scale of Carry On films, neither too bawdy nor like the genial black and whites. But plenty of laughs to be had and it's a good production, the Camber Sands locations surprisingly passing muster as the Legionnaires desert hell. Well constructed battle sequences for the finale as well. 7/10
Jul 12, 2015
CinemaSerf
This time, it's "Beau Geste" and the Foreign Legion that get's the "Carry On" treatment as Jim Dale arrives at a desert fortress under the strict command of "Burger" (Kenneth Williams) ably abetted by Phil Silvers' "Sgt. Nocker". Clearly, someone thought that importing him into this might breathe some fresh air into the franchise. Sadly, for me at any rate, it doesn't. He just overwhelms the whole thing with this rather brash and unsubtle humour and coupled with the over-use of the annoying Dale this just ends up being a rather messy desert-meleé that sees the troop getting lost before getting found and then combatting the evil Sheikh "Abdul Abulbul" (Bernard Bresslaw) to secure the "Nooki" oasis. Joan Sims and Charles Hawtrey are here alright, but neither really gets much opportunity to gatecrash the "Bilko"-ing of the film and it sort of reminded me of that old adage about something not being broke... It's a shame, though - this subject matter could have provided quite a rich seam for their style of comedy had it just concentrated on what it had been good at, kept it British - and not tried to internationalise itself.
Jul 26, 2023
Thematic Analysis
Carry On Follow That Camel represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. 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 1967, 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 Follow That Camel took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 67 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1967, when this film was released:
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- 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 Follow That Camel shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Black and White Sylva, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Carry On Follow That Camel offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Parody Movie and Undercover Brother explore similar territory, Carry On Follow That Camel 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: August 10, 1967
- Runtime: 1h 35m
