Left to their own devices, the crew of a rarely used ship have gathered round their canny bosun. Inspired by the man's creative ideas, they have started exploring the various commercial opportunities provided by their posting. Their flourishing enterprise is threatened by the arrival of a new commanding officer who is both honest and idealistic...
"Up the creek" is a witty comedy in a traditionally British vein. The comedy pokes civilized fun at Her Majesty's Navy and its age-old traditions, such as the doling out of rum. (Here, the rum flows by the barrel.) Much of the humor derives from the upending of normal values. For instance, the inhabitants of the nearby village are unanimous in their praise for the sterling lads working on the ship. Upon closer examination, it becomes clear that they're not commending the men for their sea-going skills, their naval discipline or their fighting gallantry, but for their promptness in delivering illicit eggs or pork pies.
Sadly one can see the movie's ending coming from a long, a very long way off. A bit more inventiveness might have done wonders.
The success of "Up the creek" inspired a follow-up movie called "Further up the creek", unfortunately without the participation of Peter Sellers. The second movie starts from the same premise - a Navy ship run by profiteers, con men and grifters - but tells a tale about an official business trip being disguised as a cruise for discerning tourists. "Further up the creek" isn't bad, but I'd rate it somewhat lower than its predecessor - let's say six stars.
"Up the creek" is a witty comedy in a traditionally British vein. The comedy pokes civilized fun at Her Majesty's Navy and its age-old traditions, such as the doling out of rum. (Here, the rum flows by the barrel.) Much of the humor derives from the upending of normal values. For instance, the inhabitants of the nearby village are unanimous in their praise for the sterling lads working on the ship. Upon closer examination, it becomes clear that they're not commending the men for their sea-going skills, their naval discipline or their fighting gallantry, but for their promptness in delivering illicit eggs or pork pies.
Sadly one can see the movie's ending coming from a long, a very long way off. A bit more inventiveness might have done wonders.
The success of "Up the creek" inspired a follow-up movie called "Further up the creek", unfortunately without the participation of Peter Sellers. The second movie starts from the same premise - a Navy ship run by profiteers, con men and grifters - but tells a tale about an official business trip being disguised as a cruise for discerning tourists. "Further up the creek" isn't bad, but I'd rate it somewhat lower than its predecessor - let's say six stars.