I Thank You

I Thank You is a charming British comedy released in 1941, directed by Marcel Varnel and written by Marriott Edgar and Val Guest. The movie features a stellar cast making way for some classic British comedy, with standout performances from Arthur Askey, Richard Murdoch, and Lily Morris. This film is considered one of the most entertaining and classic comedy pieces from the era, filled with slapstick humor, quick-witted banter, and staged hilarity.

Arthur Askey, a renowned comedian in British cinema, delivered a brilliant performance in his lead role as Tommy Gander. Gander is a failed musician who, despite being a bit of a simpleton, is always ready with a joke or a song. He is overseas on the way back to England with his friend who has enlisted in the army, Jimmy, portrayed by Richard Murdoch. Jimmy has been made to look as daft as Tommy, but with less vivacity, having endless mishaps between Gander and himself. The two share a delightful chemistry, complementing each other's comedic timing consistently throughout the film.

The duo crosses paths with the audacious music hall performer, Stella (Lily Morris), adding another dimension to the film. The portrayal of this strong, witty, and striking leading lady by Morris is indeed a standout. Her experience in music hall performances shines through her character, making Stella not just a mere love interest, but a powerful figure in her own right. The romance subplot between Stella and Jimmy offers an engaging diversion from the constant slapstick.

The plot of I Thank You spins an amusing tale of these hapless heroes who find themselves caught up in a side-splitting series of events. Tossed from a doomed cabaret show, our protagonists' journey drives them into an overnight stay at a reputedly haunted house, then further into a farcical spy plot. Combined with the impending anxiety of war-torn England, the movie ingenously stirs patriotic sentiments while never deviating from fuelling its humorous soul.

The comedy of I Thank You spans a wide spectrum, from nuanced physical comedy to playful banter and eccentric, over-the-top character portrayals. Askey and Murdoch work as superb comedic foils, their characters continuously interacting with the unfolding absurdity around them in their own unique, humorous ways. Askey's character, Tommy, packs the film with a series of comical musical numbers that break the conventional scene transitions, adding an extra layer of quirky charm.

The supporting performances by other cast members, including Ernest Butcher, Moore Marriott, and Felix Aylmer, are equally captivating, adding depth and breathing life into the story's various comic situations. Ernest Butcher, as the story's unlikely hero Sam, shines in his understated and clever performance, while Moore Marriott and Felix Aylmer seamlessly blend into the chaotic comedy landscape, contributing tremendously to the storyline's hilarity.

Despite being in the thick of World War II, the film successfully attempts a dual role as a 'cheer-up film', bringing light-hearted comedy to elevate the spirits of the British populace and delivering subtle messages of resilience, unity, and patriotism. The title of the movie, I Thank You, was itself a popular catchphrase of Arthur Askey, further delivering its message of shared camaraderie in difficult times.

In conclusion, I Thank You is a commentary on the time it was produced, serving as a captivating window into society during war-torn Britain. The film blends classic slapstick humor, tongue-in-cheek satire, heartwarming moments, and patriotic undercurrents, all into a single package. The brilliant performances by Arthur Askey, Richard Murdoch, Lily Morris, and the supporting cast, coupled with clever writing and inspired direction, make it a must-watch for any classic British comedy lover.