Carry On Jack

Carry On Jack, a British comedy film from 1964, takes its audience back in time, dropping them squarely in the heyday of Horatio Nelson and delving deep into maritime exploits of the period with a delightful twist of farce. Set in the context of the early nineteenth century, this Peter Rogers production is made remarkable by the talent of director Gerald Thomas and the memorable performances of an ensemble cast, including legendary British actors Kenneth Williams, Charles Hawtrey, and Bernard Cribbins.

The movie is part of the iconic “Carry On” cinematic series which gained fame for its idiosyncratic British humour, double entendre, and innuendos. Much like its siblings, Carry On Jack spins subtle puns and expressive slapstick into a neatly woven comedic tapestry, retaining its distinct blend of humour whilst sailing into uncharted territories.

Bernard Cribbins plays the role of Albert Poop-Decker, a sailor who is ecstatic about his promotion which sees him becoming the new captain of the leaking and outdated naval vessel, Venus. Cribbins deftly delivers comedic lines, coupled with his sterling interpretation of a bewildered greenhorn entering maritime service, that leaves audiences doubled over in laughter. His character’s inept managing of the ship and crew sets the stage for countless comedic episodes that sustain the film's momentum.

The story takes a delightful twist when Kenneth Williams as First Officer Howett and Charles Hawtrey as Walter Sweetly, a considerably eccentric ship’s surgeon, assume control of Venus following a mutinous coup. Williams is simply superb in his role, bringing his classic wit and a great sense of timing, whilst adding a pompous elegance that's inherently funny. Hawtrey equally stands out with his eccentric performance and relentless pursuit of rum aboard the ship.

In a twist of mistaken identity, Poop Decker, now stranded, encounters the tenacious Sally (played by Juliet Mills), who's seeking seafaring adventure. In a turn of events, they both find themselves back on the Venus, heightened by Sally's masquerade as midshipman, contributing to a comedy of errors. This addition of a sparkling leading lady among a male-dominated cast only amplifies the antics and comedic potential, steering the overall narrative towards unexpected shores.

As the motley crew of Venus embarks on a series of misguided adventures on the high seas, they confront myriad complications and humorous challenges, including a bumbling attempt to capture a French frigate, navigating through uncharted territories in oceans, and humorous portrayals of maritime traditions. Genuine surprises woven into the eccentric happening ensure the comedic continuity while making sure audiences can't predict what's coming next.

Fenella Fielding takes on the role of Meg, a fiery woman of questionable virtue, providing an entirely different brand of laughs and playing well against the wide-eyed naivety of Sally's character. Another notable player is Percy Herbert as Bosun Hardy, whose hard exterior contrasts greatly with the chaotic inefficiency of the crew, setting the stage for even more comedic conflicts.

Furthermore, the intricate and clever set design visually transports the audience back to the early 19th century with detailed depictions of period-appropriate naval vessels, docks, and seascapes.

Although Carry On Jack may feel like a deviation from the standard locations and themes of the other Carry On movies, it is lauded for its originality and unique naval setting. It adroitly maintains the distinct Carry On franchise's style of humour and inventive puns whilst interlacing elements of high-sea adventure and good old-fashioned British hilarity.

Riding high on the success of the Carry On series, the movie deviates from hospital wards and holiday camps to offer a maritime adventure comedy of a variety, proving that the winning formula of the Carry On series can work in any setting. Carry On Jack sails through a sea of laughter, promising its audience a rip-roaring and pun-filled voyage through the mishaps of naval maritime life.

Unquestionably, it's a delight for viewers who appreciate the typical humour of the Carry On series and for those who are fans of maritime adventures will also enjoy the juxtaposition of these two and the wonderful comedic chaos that results.