Are You Being Served?

Are You Being Served? is a 1977 British comedy film based on the bustling BBC television sitcom of the same name, which was enormously popular between 1972 and 1985. The film is directed by Bob Kellett and stars the original series' ensemble cast including John Inman, Mollie Sugden, Frank Thornton, Trevor Bannister, Arthur Brough, and Wendy Richard, among others.

The story revolves around the assorted and comically eccentric staff of the men's and women's clothing departments at Grace Brothers, a fictional oversized, slightly old-fashioned, and chaotically managed department store in London. The film transports the scenario from the confines of the Grace Brothers store to the sun-drenched Costa Plonka, a holiday resort in the middle of a civil unrest. The store's workers are treated to a company-paid vacation there as a reward, setting up a stage for a series of comic misadventures, seasoned with the sitcom's signature elements of slapstick, double entendres, mistaken identities, innuendos, and camp humor.

John Inman reprises his role as the flamboyant and cheeky Mr. Humphries, whose ambiguous sexuality and quintessentially camp manner steals many scenes. His catchphrases and playful demeanor makes him a standout character among the Grace Brothers' staff leaning more towards caricature, right in line with the television series.

The indomitable Mollie Sugden, as Mrs. Slocombe, serves her role with admirable comic prowess, bringing to life her overtly dyed hair, militaristic demeanor, and fondness for her "pussy" (a term she frequently uses referring to her pet cat, leading to numerous comic situations). Mrs. Slocombe is not above manipulating situations or people to get her own way.

Frank Thornton as the haughty, obsequious floorwalker, Captain Peacock, skillfully interprets his role. He is the link between the secretarial and sales staff of the store and often finds himself tangled up in the comic chaos that ensues. Add to this Trevor Bannister's randy, wisecracking series-favorite salesman Mr. Lucas, Arthur Brough's veteran shoe salesman Mr. Grainger, and Wendy Richard as the sexy, dolly bird Miss Brahms. Each character adds their own flavor, contributing to the riotous melange that Are You Being Served? is known for.

In terms of structure, Are You Being Served? could be seen as a string of television episodes melded together. It moves from one comedic setup to another, alternating between the diverse characters and their encounters with the anarchic locals, their atypical holiday accommodation issues, and the constant pursuit for a chance of flirtation. The result is a feel-good film that translates the situational comedy of a popular TV series onto the big screen.

The film's sharpness comes from its incredibly well-written script crafted by Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft, the original creators of the series. The deft execution of one-liners, witty retorts, and misdirected conversations brings the laughter-packed burst of the television shows into a single film.

On a technical front, the film is a simple, straightforward comedy, banked on the strength of its well-defined characters and comic timing. It captures the hoards of fans who were already familiar with the characters and their dynamics. But the genius of the film is in its universal humor, it doesn't alienate viewers who are unfamiliar with the television series. Whether you're a fan of the series or a newcomer to the raucous world of Grace Brothers, the film provides ample reasons for viewers to be entertained.

With a few risqué moments, Are You Being Served? marries the bawdy British films of the era with the uniquely successful appeal of a beloved television sitcom. The film is a slice of classic British comedy, capturing the essence of the series while offering a more expansive and cinematic viewing experience. The humor is straightforward, silly, and sometimes a tad outrageous – just as fans of the series would expect. A must-see for lovers of British humor and fans of the original sitcom, Are You Being Served? is a timeless piece of comedy that garners laughter-filled enjoyment.