Cast
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Jim Dale
as Doctor Jim Kilmore
Kenneth Williams
as Doctor Kenneth Tinkle
Sid James
as Charlie Roper
Barbara Windsor
as Nurse Sandra May
Joan Sims
as Chloë Gibson
Charles Hawtrey
as Mr. Barron
Frankie Howerd
as Francis Bigger
Bernard Bresslaw
as Ken Biddle
Hattie Jacques
as Matron
Peter Butterworth
as Mr. Smith
June Jago
as Sister Hoggett
Derek Francis
as Sir Edmund Burke
Dandy Nichols
as Mrs. Roper
Peter Jones
as Chaplain
Marianne Stone
as Mother
Crew
Director
- Gerald Thomas
Producer
- Peter Rogers
Reviews
CinemaSerf
A largely overpowering Frankie Howerd heads the cast for this slightly revamped version of "Carry On Nurse" (1959) as the crooked preacher who ends up in hospital after a posterior altercation leaves him a bit bruised. When he gets to the hospital - where everything happens under the watchful gaze of the portrait of "Sir Lancelot Spratt" - he alights on "Roper" (Sid James) and "Barron" (Charles Hawtrey) and encounters the ruthless matron (Hattie Jacques). She resurrects her established partnership with Kenneth Williams' doctor - this time he's called "Tinkle" and the scene is now set for some fairly standard fayre of mischief and mayhem. Jim Dale features a little too frequently for me - I found his efforts just too busy and frenetic - as the bumbling "Dr. Kilmore" who is the apple in the eye of the nurses, especially "Miss Clarke" (Anita Harris) and so the seeds of romance are sewn. It's all a bit same old, same old, this comedy - but the last twenty minutes or so give them all a chance to shine as revenge is taken and Williams, in particular, gets a little more than he bargained for. It's quickly paced and there is plenty of innuendo but here I found the script a bit more akin to the traditional films - less smut and more fun. A power struggle with anaesthetics - what's not to like?
Jul 25, 2023
Thematic Analysis
Carry On Doctor 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 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 Doctor took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 116 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 47 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1967, when this film was released:
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Carry On Doctor shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Re-Animator, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Carry On Doctor subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like ini and A Fish Called Wanda explore similar territory, Carry On Doctor stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: December 2, 1967
- Runtime: 1h 34m
