Cast
View All
Laurence Harvey
as Johnny Jackson
Sylvia Syms
as Maisie King
Yolande Donlan
as Dixie Collins
Cliff Richard
as Bert Rudge / Bongo Herbert
Meier Tzelniker
as Mayer
Ambrosine Phillpotts
as Lady Rosemary
Gilbert Harding
as Self
Hermione Baddeley
as Penelope
Eric Pohlmann
as Leon
Reginald Beckwith
as Rev. Tobias Craven
Wilfrid Lawson
as Mr Rudge
Avis Bunnage
as Mrs Rudge
Susan Burnet
as Edna Rudge
Susan Hampshire
as Cynthia
Kenneth Griffith
as Charlie
Crew
Director
- Val Guest
Writer
- Wolf Mankowitz
- Julian More
Producer
- Val Guest
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Expresso Bongo represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Music 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 Val Guest 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 1959, 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 Expresso Bongo took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 111 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 117 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1959, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Expresso Bongo shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Woman in Me, which focuses more on action than character development, Expresso Bongo subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Coming Soon and Babes in Toyland explore similar territory, Expresso Bongo 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: December 1, 1959
- Runtime: 1h 51m
Where to Watch
