Cast
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Frankie Howerd
as Willie Joy
Stanley Holloway
as Captain Jack Montague
Alfie Bass
as Blagg
Lionel Jeffries
as Bert Benton
Susan Beaumont
as Susan Storer
A.E. Matthews
as Lord Reginald Cranfield
Tony Wright
as Vincent
Joan Hickson
as Lady Emily Cranfield
Terence Longdon
as John Wyndham
Colin Gordon
as Max, 1st Commentator
Richard Wattis
as Carruthers
Danny Green
as Plug Ugly
Barbara Archer
as Marlene
William Kendall
as Blenkinsop
Ewen Solon
as Haines
Crew
Director
- John Paddy Carstairs
Writer
- Henry Blyth
- Jack Davies
Producer
- Raymond Stross
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Jumping for Joy 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 John Paddy Carstairs 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 Jumping for Joy took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 75 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 130 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1135 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 73 unique compositions.
- 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 civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Jumping for Joy shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike My Life as a Dog, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Jumping for Joy offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Buffalo '66 and Carry On Don't Lose Your Head explore similar territory, Jumping for Joy stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 1, 1956
- Runtime: 1h 15m
