Hey! Hey! USA

Hey! Hey! USA is a classic British comedy film from 1938 helmed by renowned director Marcel Varnel. The movie stars the evergreen funnyman, Will Hay alongside strong supporting performances from Edgar Kennedy and David Burns. Laughter and surprise are the main ingredients of this vintage classic that continues to delight audiences nearly a century after its release, an outright testament to the timeless humor and entertainment it provides.

The story begins with Benjamin Twist, portrayed brilliantly by Will Hay, a well-meaning but hapless surprise British tourist, who is accidentally mistaken for an international gangster. Twist's adventure in the land of the free is punctuated with a host of comedic encounters, which are grounded in cultural misunderstandings and define the tone of the film. Our protagonist's exploits test the limits of coincidence and probability making for a delightful and entertaining romp through the United States in the 1930s.

As the storyline progresses, Twist finds himself in a web of comic confusion as he gets deeper into the criminal world. It's all a case of a mistaken identity with an international gang lord, which leads Twist to a roller coaster ride of discovery, deception, and delightful complications. Throughout the film, his knack for getting caught up in unfortunate situations and his attempts at escaping them form the crux of the most memorable and gigglesome incidents.

The film sets itself apart with a uniquely British blend of good-natured humor and slapstick comedy. There's a distinctive tone that feels both authentically of its time yet also ahead of it, with precursors to gags and styles we'd see more prominently in the world of comedy as the years have progressed. The cultural tension between British and American ways of life represents an added layer of comic subtleness to the otherwise madcap narrative.

The character of Benjamin Twist is etched with enduring humor, showcasing the pioneering comedic skills of Will Hay. His performance is the heart and soul of the movie, every moment bursting with wit and charm. Aided by a well-written script, Hay's portrayal of the befuddled, but likeable, character in the middle of the journey through the underbelly of American crime is terrific.

American screen legend Edgar Kennedy gives a commendable performance as the captain of a transatlantic liner, adding more value to the comedy of the film with his characteristic ‘slow-burn’ style that made him popular among audiences. David Burns, too, shines in his role, blending well with the humor dynamics and the resultant fun.

The masterful direction by Marcel Varnel should be credited for the film's tightly packed and well-paced storyline. Hey! Hey! USA has numerous scenes that successfully generate sidesplitting laughs, delivered with great timing from all the participating actors. You could argue that this rhythm is largely due to his direction and an understanding that comedy, first and foremost, requires solid pacing.

The film prides itself on being a spectacle of maritime humor and transatlantic comedy, offering an insightful, and often hilarious, peek into the cultural differences and commonalities of the British and the Americans.

Its historic portrayal of the United States during the late 1930s is interesting from a cinematic standpoint. The backdrop of New York and other U.S. locales set the stage for a splendid cross-cultural comedy set on both sides of the Atlantic. That era’s vintage charm and architectural splendor are elegantly captured.

In closing, Hey! Hey! USA is a vintage treasure from the Golden Age of British comedy. Its storyline, characters, comedic timing, and cultural commentary make it an enduring classic. An unforgettable performance by Will Hay and commendable support from Edgar Kennedy and David Burns make this movie a must-watch for devotees of classic comedy. If you're in the mood for a laugh-filled trip back in time, "Hey! Hey! USA" promises an entertaining journey that will indeed make you smile every single minute!