Carry On Columbus

Carry On Columbus is a 1992 British comedy film that serves as the 31st entry in the Carry On film series, a long-standing tradition in British cinema that is revered for its hilarity and iconic cast of characters. The movie boasts a star-studded ensemble led by Jim Dale, Bernard Cribbins, and Maureen Lipman. Directed by Gerald Thomas, the script was penned by Dave Freeman and is a bold, comedic exploration of Christopher Columbus's historic journey to the New World.

The film's plot is a comedic twist on the legendary expedition of Columbus, starring the incomparable Jim Dale as Columbus himself. Dale's portrayal of the renowned explorer is tinged with humor, misunderstandings, and a touch of the goofiness that marked his earlier performances in the series. Dale's Columbus is likable, eternally optimistic, and somewhat naive, providing the perfect character to steer this wild adventure across the sea.

Complementing Dale's standout performance is Bernard Cribbins in the role of the scheming, somewhat silly Brother Bartolomeo. Cribbins dominates the screen with his impeccable comedic timing, masterfully juggling dialogue teeming with double entendres and innuendos that are part and parcel of the Carry On tradition. Cribbins is undeniably at his best here, delivering a performance that is both charmingly funny and disarmingly simple.

Adding a distinctive feminine charm to the predominantly male ensemble is Maureen Lipman, playing the proud and spirited Countess Esmeralda. Lipman portrays her character with the right balance of self-confidence, wit, and elegance, shining in every scene she features in, and effortlessly blending the tone of mature femininity with a certain comedic flair. Lipman's Countess is a strong character who doesn't let herself be overshadowed by her male counterparts, becoming a symbol of empowerment with her bold and daring attitude.

The humor in Carry On Columbus is classic "Carry On" - cheeky, silly, and filled with jokes and punchlines that may make you cringe one moment and burst out laughing the next. It plays fast and loose with historical accuracy, instead prioritizing comedy and entertainment over any attempt at a faithful retelling of Columbus's voyage. The movie is filled with skits, quips, and farcical moments that work towards creating an overall tone of light-hearted humor and fun.

Cinematographer Alan Hume creates a colorful world that sparkles with vibrant shots, capturing the outlandish events transpiring aboard the weather-beaten ship and the lands they discover. The production design by Maurice Carter effectively captures the essence of the period, while the costumes designed by Courtenay Elliott give the characters a blend of historical and comedic flair. In the end, the visual aspects of the film mirror its theme, blending historical drama with classic British comedy.

The music by Carry On's long-standing composer, Eric Rogers, adds another layer of whimsy to the film. His score captures the goofy spirit of the film and accentuates the comedic timing of the actors. Rogers's music underscores the movie's ability to entertain and make audiences laugh.

In conclusion, Carry On Columbus is a comedy romp that harks back to the classic Carry On films with its playful, slapstick humor, and a cast of characters who relentlessly forge through one comic situation after another. It is a film that doesn't take itself too seriously but instead embraces its outrageous plot, setting itself apart as a mischievous and unconventional classic British comedy. This film, with its amusing take on the story of Columbus, showcases the essence of the Carry On spirit that has been cherished by audiences for decades.