Carry On Abroad

Carry On Abroad, released in 1972 and directed by Gerald Thomas, is an enduring British comedy gem from the legendary Carry On franchise. Starring some of the most iconic British comic actors of the time, including Sidney James, Kenneth Williams, and Charles Hawtrey, this film takes you on an infectiously hilarious journey packed with clever puns, slapstick humor, and well-executed comedic sequences that are underscored by the ensemble's impeccable comic timing.

The plot revolves around a motley group of British holidaymakers who journey to the less-than-luxurious resort of Elsbels in the fictitious Mediterranean country of Spain. Leading this group is the irascible and cheeky pub owner Vic Flange, played with infectious energy by Carry On stalwart Sidney James. Flange is looking forward to this supposedly fun-filled trip, especially since his flirtatious friend Sadie Tompkins, characterized by the voluptuous Barbara Windsor, is also joining.

The pious and hopelessly pedantic tour guide, Stuart Farquhar, is portrayed by Captain Carry On himself, Kenneth Williams. His attempts to maintain order and inject some culture and education into the trip are met with nonstop chaos and confusion. Farquhar's commendable attempts to make this trip a success are continually thwarted by the group's strikingly conflicting personality traits, along with some unforeseen surprises and complications that happen to their hotel arrangements.

Charles Hawtrey brings his unique and quirky charm to the character of Euston, a man apparently trapped in a time-warp, complete with Edwardian dress sense and a trusty old bicycle. This character's old-world interests and eccentricities add another layer of humor to the film, aligning perfectly with the movie’s theme of cultural contrasts and misunderstandings.

In true Carry On style, the movie introduces other noteworthy and excellently caricatured characters that further amplify the comedy. These include the Hope Springs, the battle-axe mother portrayed by Joan Sims, and the no-nonsense, outspoken Floella, played expertly by Hattie Jacques. Meanwhile, Jimmy Logan, as Brother Bernard, brings depth to this quixotic tale with his quest to spread spirituality, often landing him in rather amusing situations.

Arriving in the unfinished Hotel O Costa Plonka, the group swiftly descends into havoc when they discover the lack of facilities and amenities, which act as a catalyst for a series of increasingly hilarious escapades. From flirtatious adventures to slapstick pratfalls as the hotel literally falls apart around them, the comedy is non-stop. Despite these trials, the group keeps their spirits high, demonstrating typical British stiff upper lip.

Director Gerald Thomas, with his competence for situational and slapstick comedy, has created a vibrant world that derives humor from every mundane aspect of a group holiday. There's something about the light-hearted and snappy screenplay, combined with the director's knack for creating humorous situations that continues to evoke laughter, even after several decades of its release.

Featuring brilliant performances by the ensemble cast, Carry On Abroad shines particularly because of the charismatic Sidney James and the delightfully neurotic Kenneth Williams. Their performances, coupled with a well-rounded ensemble, with such names as Joan Sims and Hattie Jacques, among others, make the film seem both outlandish and relatable at the same time. This sparkling cast brilliantly captures the absurdity of their characters' situations, often highlighted by the clever play on words and distinctly British humor.

The film also offers some subtle social commentary on the quintessential 'cheap-and-cheerful' British package holiday, injecting humor into situations that many in the audience might find relatable. Its aesthetics are nostalgic, reflecting the very essence of the early 1970s British pop culture, from the costumes to the production designs.

Carry On Abroad is a comedy film of epic proportion about expectation versus reality, social class hierarchies, and the humorous dynamics of holiday escapades. For lovers of traditional British comedy, this film is a must-watch for its playful charm, witty dialogue, and humorous antics.