Cast
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Frankie Howerd
as William Darling
Dennis Price
as Digby Hatchard
Gordon Harker
as Sid
Reginald Beckwith
as Herbert Hardcastle
Richard Wattis
as Purchase
Alfie Bass
as May
Ruby Murray
as Ruby
Dorothy Bromiley
as Rose Blake
Katherine Kath
as Lucienne
Pierre Dudan
as Louis
Colin Gordon
as Cecil Flick
Miriam Karlin
as Alice Cann
Willoughby Goddard
as Golightly
Aïché Nana
as Belly Dancer
George Margo
as Howard Cann
Crew
Director
- Gordon Parry
Writer
- Alfred Shaughnessy
Producer
- Raymond Stross
Reviews
dennyjt
Hotel desk clerk Howerd is a Mister Fixit who dreams of warmer climes. When he inherits a fortune, he takes off to enjoy it, only to find the reality does not match his imagination. On his return, as the film lurches into farce, he buys the now failed hotel, but has to impress the Northern investors by pretending the place is still a bustling location by having the staff race around posing as guests. Another failed Howerd vehicle, he would eventually find movie success with “Up Pompeii”. As typical for the time, the film benefits from the splendid British character actors filling out the cast.
Aug 31, 2022
CinemaSerf
I was never a great fan of Frankie Howerd's brand of comedy, but he's actually not bad in this rather quirkily entertaining tale of rags to riches. He is "Darling" who takes great pleasure in quitting as an hotel porter when he is left a small fortune. He soon bores of the high life and returns to his former workplace only to find it's struggling. He sees a chance to rescue it, settle a few old scores - and maybe even turn a profit if he can rope in a few gullible investors. To that latter end, he galvanises the staff and some of their friends to create the impression that this is a bustling, thriving, business that is a must-have for anyone looking to get into the hotel business. Howerd tones down his usual style of smutty humour here and tempered by the practically minded "Ruby" (Ruby Murray) and the odd dignifying appearance from manager "Hatchard" (Dennis Price) delivers a quickly moving story of the grass not always being greener. If nothing else, it does serve as a reminder of just what we were watching back then - simple comedy themes rather over-delivered, and though it's a bit on the long side I found it an OK watch.
Nov 24, 2023
Thematic Analysis
A Touch of the Sun 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 Gordon Parry 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 1956, 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 A Touch of the Sun took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 80 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 389 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 1649 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1956, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While A Touch of the Sun shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Stolen Kisses, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, A Touch of the Sun subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Monsieur Hulot's Holiday and Lolita explore similar territory, A Touch of the Sun stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: October 1, 1956
- Runtime: 1h 20m
