Carry On Henry

Carry On Henry is a British comedy film released in 1971 as part of the long-running and popular Carry On series, known for its slapstick humor, double entendres, and much-loved recurring ensemble cast. Directed by Gerald Thomas and produced by Peter Rogers, the movie digs deep into the annals of English history to present a raucous, irreverent take on the reign of King Henry VIII, a monarch notorious for his numerous marriages and mercurial temperament. Despite being based on historical figures, Carry On Henry bears little relation to actual historical events, instead opting for a farcical and fictionalized portrayal of the period.

The film stars Sidney James in the lead role as King Henry VIII, bringing to life the king's larger-than-life persona with James’ signature mix of brashness and charm. James embodies the monarch's voracious appetites—be they for food, power, or women—with a twinkle in his eye and a boundless energy that make his take on the infamous king uniquely entertaining.

Kenneth Williams co-stars as Thomas Cromwell, the king’s chief minister, who is depicted as a crafty and somewhat sycophantic advisor. Williams’ sharp wit and distinctive comedic timing shine through his portrayal of the calculating Cromwell, who must navigate the treacherous waters of the king's court and whims. Williams adds his customary flair to the role by infusing his character with a sense of sophistication and connivance, skillfully balancing the historical figure's known attributes with the exaggerated nature of the Carry On humor.

Charles Hawtrey features prominently in the film as well, playing the role of Sir Roger de Lodgerley. Hawtrey's contribution to the Carry On series is well-known, with his quirky mannerisms and effete characterization bringing a unique comedic element that reliably draws laughter from the audience.

The movie is set against the backdrop of Tudor England, the Carry On team skewers the regal pomp and pageantry of the era, poking fun at aristocratic excess and the political machinations of the king's court. As with other Carry On films, the production values are reflective of modest budgets, with an emphasis placed on clever dialogue, visual gags, and character interactions rather than lavish sets or special effects.

In Carry On Henry, the plot centers on the king’s tumultuous love life, specifically his efforts to rid himself of his undesirable marriage to Queen Marie of Normandy in order to pursue his amorous interests in the buxom and beautiful Bettina, played by the vivacious Barbara Windsor. The queen in this picture is portrayed by Joan Sims, who brings a certain comedic dignity to the beleaguered Marie, facing the king’s roving eye and frequent attempts to replace her.

As per the standard formula of Carry On films, the movie is replete with innuendo and suggestive comedy, with the writers taking full advantage of the reputation of Henry VIII and his many wives to create a slew of risqué jokes and scenarios. At the heart of the film lies a tangled web of romantic entanglements, assassination attempts, and the intrigue of royal politics—a fertile ground for the Carry On team's unique brand of humor.

Supporting cast members include Terry Scott, the incomparable Barbara Windsor, and a host of other familiar faces from the Carry On ensemble who bring to life the other members of the court, including the king's lusty and bumbling guards, mischievous maids, and various conniving nobles. Each actor contributes to the hilarity with their own distinctive style, ensuring that the film maintains a pace that keeps audiences constantly entertained.

Audiences are further treated to the elaborate costumes of the era turned comically on their head – the men in tights, the women in heaving bodices – all serving as both a spoof on historical dramas and an echo of traditional British panto. The juxtaposition of these elaborate costumes with the slapstick comedy and modern dialogue is part of what gives Carry On Henry (and indeed, the entire Carry On series) its enduring charm.

The film was made during a time when the Carry On franchise was at the height of its popularity, with audiences flocking to cinemas for their latest fix of familiar characters and guaranteed laughs. While times have changed and some aspects of the series' humor may not have aged as well as hoped, Carry On Henry, like the rest of the films in the series, remains a testament to a specific kind of British humor that continues to have its fans.

Overall, Carry On Henry takes a comedic romp through history, providing a light-hearted and very British take on a well-known historical period. With bawdy humor and a playful disregard for the finer details of the past, the film succeeds in entertaining audiences looking for a good chuckle and a touch of nostalgia.