Oh Mr Porter

Oh Mr Porter is a British comedic gem from the golden age of cinema, released in 1937. Directed by Marcel Varnel, this delightful romp is best known for its leading man, English comedian Will Hay, who headlines the film alongside trusted comedians Moore Marriott and Graham Moffatt. Their dynamic on-screen synergy arguably contributed vastly to the film's continued appeal. The terrain of Oh Mr Porter is classic British farce, carefully woven with a comedic storytelling approach reminiscent of its era, yet with timeless appeal.

The film stars Will Hay in the role of the well-meaning but constantly bungling William Porter, who is appointed by the railway company to the stationmaster's job. However, instead of the cushy London assignment that he's anticipating, Porter is sent to the remote and chaotic Northern Ireland station of Buggleskelly. This station, historically problematic and financially detrimental for the company, sets the stage for a series of hilarious misadventures.

The film showcases the comedic genius of Hay, as the often-confused Porter struggles to get to grips with his new role. However, he is not alone in his endeavours. He finds a ragtag team in the form of the unfortunately inept Station Porter Albert, (Graham Moffatt), and Jeremiah Harbottle (Moore Marriott), the ancient, toothless ticket clerk. Together, this unlikely triumvirate grapples with the seemingly impossible mission of turning the derelict station into a lucrative operation.

This is a railroad-themed comedy centred on a hopelessly neglected station that has been virtually ignored by trains for several years, making Porter's objective appear to be an insurmountable task. The station's isolation, coupled with a rumoured ghost haunting, ties in for rich comedic material in cottoning comical situations.

Throughout the film, Hay’s character endeavours to bring about order amidst continuous chaos. From dealing with irate passengers and skirmishes with eccentric locals, to intercepting illegal activity, the comedy never subsides. Alongside the comedy, there is the infusion of mystery and elements of crime woven into the plot, serving to further heighten the comical and quirky trials Porter is subjected to.

Will Hay shines in the character of William Porter, capturing the charisma of a man who is a hopeless failure yet refuses to succumb to his predicaments. His performance is complimented by the endearing on-screen chemistry between Moore Marriott as the last surviving member of the Harbottle clan and Graham Moffatt as the portly young station porter. All the characters are loveably imperfect, creating endearing personas the audience can laugh along with.

Despite the arduous tasks that the team confronts, they manage to mix humour with excitement seamlessly. The film cleverly contrasts the seemingly quiet rural life with the hilarious hustle and bustle of railway operation. On the other hand, the characters' shenanigans and the absurdity of the situations they find themselves in, punctuated by the witty script, ensure that the laughter never ceases.

The film is skillfully directed by the acclaimed Marcel Varnel, playing up each character's comic potential with wit and timing. His understanding of comedic rhythm is apparent in each carefully arranged scene, which escalate in both absurdity and hilarity. The film also boasts strong cinematography for its time, capturing the charm of the Irish landscapes and bringing the dilapidated station to life.

Though produced in 1937, Oh Mr Porter embraces comedy that remains relevant and enjoyable. It is a shining example of Will Hay's remarkable ability to create and deliver compelling comedy. The film has remained popular with audiences and critics alike and is frequently considered Hay's best film, a high point of British comic cinema.

In summary, Oh Mr Porter strikes an engaging symphony of laughter that not only characterizes slapstick humour at its best but also weaves in engaging storytelling threads of mystery and adventure. It is a classic in every sense of the word, making it a vital watch for any fans of British comedy or classic cinema. This film, filled with comedy and subtle touches of nostalgia, is bound to leave one in stitches and yearning for the simple charm of classic aged cinema.