Cast
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Carol Cleveland
as Sandra
Tony Tanner
as Terry Blessing
Joan Sims
as Peggy Bennett
Graham Stark
as Hartley Fitzroy-Miles
Jeanne Moody
as Claire Snow
Eric Dodson
as George
Toni Palmer
as Bridget
Murray Kash
as Mario
Christine Hargreaves
as Linda Rich
Juliet Cooke
as Dorothy
Eddie Leslie
as Traffic Warden
Duncan Lewis
as Trilby Hat
Valerie Walsh
as Maxine
Bernard Goldman
as Mendoza
Edward Caddick
as Bookie
Crew
Director
- Vernon Sewell
Writer
- Tony Hawes
Producer
- E.M. Smedley-Aston
Reviews
CinemaSerf
This is really just a vehicle for small-time theatre star Tony Tanner, and it's doesn't really add up to much. He ("Terry") is having a good night having found a penny on the street and by one means or another turned it into a tidy twenty quid. There is soon quite a fly in his ointment, though, when an ex turns up and deposits "Alfie" (Alan Baulch) on him, claiming he is their son. What now ensues is a rather predictable series of scenarios that though occasionally lit up by Joan Simms as the landlady "Peggy", these recycle themselves a bit too often. Tanner has timing and some personality, but somehow this film just neuters that quite effectively with a really limiting stage-like production and some borderline inane dialogue. There is plenty of London photography, but after a few scenes that becomes unremarkable too. Saturday afternoon B-feature fodder, that's all, I'm afraid.
Feb 10, 2023
Thematic Analysis
Strictly for the Birds 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 Vernon Sewell 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 1964, 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 Strictly for the Birds took approximately 22 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 63 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 110 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 74 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 1898 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1964, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: March 28, 1964
- Runtime: 1h 3m