Mister Ten Per Cent

Mister Ten Per Cent is a 1967 British comedy film that features the comedic talents of the renowned Charlie Drake along with Derek Nimmo and Wanda Ventham. The film is a fascinating blend of comedic slapstick, clever writing, and charming performances, proving its worth as a lighthearted and entertaining journey into the bustling world of showbiz.

Mister Ten Per Cent commences with Percy Pointer, a likable yet misguided protagonist, portrayed by Charlie Drake. Percy is an affable, hardworking and focused carpenter by trade, yet his heart longs for another world – the glitz and glamour of the theater. Misunderstood for daydreaming, Pointer is often the center of hilarious antics and misadventures, all driven by his unwitting, pure love for theatre and performance.

Pointer’s journey takes a delightful turn when he inadvertently creates a play-script while rhythmically hammering away at his carpentry work. This seemingly unassuming event sparks a thrilling chain of events that sends Pointer tumbling into the cutthroat industry of showbiz. Percy finds himself forced to navigate the treacherous waters of art dealing, conniving theater producers, and fast-talking agents with gusto and a hint of naive innocence.

The film places a spotlight on Derek Nimmo's character, the slick theatre agent, Leach. Leach discovers Percy’s talent and notices the supposed genius behind the unintentionally fabricated play-script. Sensing an opportunity for profit and stardom, Leach manoeuvers to get the play he assumes a product of Pointer's 'gift', produced and on stage. The humorous struggle of a simple carpenter into a reluctant 'playwright’ is loaded with clever plot twists and infectious laughter.

Wanda Ventham plays Percy's love interest, who despite her initial pragmatic views of Percy’s pursuits, becomes an essential part of his journey. Her character ranges from skeptical to supportively endearing, offering the perfect emotional balance to Percy's often chaotic world. As the movie progresses, you'll find yourself entranced by their evolving relationship, adding a delightful dash of romance to the comedy.

Derek Nimmo's portrayal of agent Leach offers a sharp contrast to Pointer’s naive character. His machinations, while never malicious, capture the ambitious spirit of the theatre world's wheeler-dealers. As a foil to Percy's guileless nature, Leach’s character adds layers to the narrative, allowing viewers to experience the full spectrum of the theatrical world - its glory, its hustle, and its occasional ruthless ambitions.

Mister Ten Per Cent is chock-full of Drake's signature slapstick comedy. It's an unabashed comedy that does not hesitate to explore humor within its context. His careful interplay with Nimmo and Ventham results in several laugh-out-loud moments that are likely to leave audiences thoroughly entertained. His ability to portray a character who remains so innocent in a world that is anything but, is a testament to his comedic talent.

Directed by the acclaimed Peter Graham Scott, who is known for his knack for comedy and romance genres, the film is a bright representation of British cinema in the 60s. His combined skills in handling tongue-in-cheek humor and creating believable characters make Mister Ten Per Cent an enjoyable watch. Peter Graham leaves no stone unturned, creating a bustling backdrop that brilliantly lampoons the theatre industry of the era. The movie has been crafted to portray a roguish satire on the theatrical showbiz industry and its wild shenanigans.

Camaraderie and romance are key themes in Mister Ten Per Cent, and although Pointer's journey through the wild world of showbiz is fraught with amusing misunderstandings, at its core, the film is a testament to the power of dreams, perseverance, and the love of the arts.

From the comedic genius of Charlie Drake to director Peter Graham Scott showcasing the best of British comedy, Mister Ten Per Cent remains a delightful cinematic experience. It's a lighthearted comedy, featuring a cast that's willing to embrace its absurdity while maintaining a certain charm and intelligence. Even in its most farcical moments, the movie perfectly encapsulates the essence of the 1960s British cinema – breezy, playful, and unapologetically entertaining.