A charming little piece, harking back to life during the 2nd World War, with the same rose-tinted spectacles worn by Captain Mainwaring in The BBC comedy series 'Dad's Army'. But this isn't a period piece; it's a comedy. And an interesting one of note because it features Sean Connery in one of his earliest lead roles, before the 007 role catapulted him to stardom.
What raises this above the usual comedic fare is the excellent bond (pardon the pun) between the two mismatched characters. Connery is the conscience, and manages to keep his companion in moral check. But he also yearns for front line action, anathema to his colleague's sense of survival. Thus the cheating character is one we can sympathize with and actually believe he's looking after Connery's best welfare.
Of course in the end they do finally see action, and after most of the film playing second dumb fiddle, Connery takes the lead and convinces his buddy to make the correct moral choice, helping save the lives of allied soldiers.
The only one real flaw is the sudden ending which is humorous only really in its abruptness, but overall I found this film to be an entertaining surprise. Great underplayed role from Wilfrid Hyde-White, and spot some British favourites in early roles.
What raises this above the usual comedic fare is the excellent bond (pardon the pun) between the two mismatched characters. Connery is the conscience, and manages to keep his companion in moral check. But he also yearns for front line action, anathema to his colleague's sense of survival. Thus the cheating character is one we can sympathize with and actually believe he's looking after Connery's best welfare.
Of course in the end they do finally see action, and after most of the film playing second dumb fiddle, Connery takes the lead and convinces his buddy to make the correct moral choice, helping save the lives of allied soldiers.
The only one real flaw is the sudden ending which is humorous only really in its abruptness, but overall I found this film to be an entertaining surprise. Great underplayed role from Wilfrid Hyde-White, and spot some British favourites in early roles.