The best way to make comedy is to have performers who conceived the material themselves, and know how funny it is, and enjoy themselves acting it out. And keep a straight face as they do so. This is what Sellers and Milligan did best, and is the highlight of this short film.
This is not to say that all of the jokes in the picture work-some are certified duds that will leave you groaning-but the ones that do will make you wet yourself with laughter. In the midst of scenes that don't earn a single laugh will come bits that leave you breathless with hilarity, completely out of nowhere, and without warning (the brilliant and sudden silent film sequence is a perfect example of this).
British comedy in general will leave many Americans befuddled, but those of us with the right sensibility will no doubt be thrilled with this film.
This is not to say that all of the jokes in the picture work-some are certified duds that will leave you groaning-but the ones that do will make you wet yourself with laughter. In the midst of scenes that don't earn a single laugh will come bits that leave you breathless with hilarity, completely out of nowhere, and without warning (the brilliant and sudden silent film sequence is a perfect example of this).
British comedy in general will leave many Americans befuddled, but those of us with the right sensibility will no doubt be thrilled with this film.