Rhubarb Rhubarb

Rhubarb Rhubarb is a captivating British short comedy film from 1980. It’s a unique television spinoff, which is an homage to the 1969 film, ‘Rhubarb’, in which both of these films have the same leading actor, Eric Sykes. The film is directed by Ed Bye, who has directed several popular British TV shows, and is written by Sykes himself.

In Rhubarb Rhubarb, Eric Sykes steps into his legendary role to bring his stone-faced humor and comedic timing back one more time. Sykes plays a policeman attempting to raise funds for his department’s construction of a new youth center. His counterpart in this endeavor is a wealthy local resident, played by Jimmy Edwards, who happens to have a lighthearted personality but is known for his stinginess. Bob Todd plays a grumpy groundskeeper in the film, adding a flavor of ardent hilarity that underpins the comedic undertones that Rhubarb Rhubarb is famous for.

The film continues its comedy via its dialogue – or rather the lack thereof. It brilliantly emulates the pantomime style, and except for one repeated and comical catchphrase – the film title, "Rhubarb Rhubarb" – the entire narrative is illustrated through bodily action and visual humor. The silent script allows the punchlines to be delivered via the actors' physical comedy, offering a delightful twist and making it a unique gem in the niche of comedy genre.

The main chunk of the plot revolves around a game of golf that somewhat spirals out of control when played among these unconventional characters. The four characters put their comedic timing to the test as the game persists in the most absurd manner, lending an airy, comic theme to the storyline.

If you appreciate vintage comedy and the absence of talk doesn't put you off, Rhubarb Rhubarb punches above its weight in the comedy department. The narrative flows seamlessly, enabling the humor to focus on the situations the characters encounter. There is a lot of physical comedy as the characters adhere to their day-to-day activities, leading to a series of humorous situations. While no word is spoken outside of the concluding catchphrase, every single action wonderfully contributes to the story. This silent-style comedy is a testament to the talent and skill of the actors and crew alike, who combine to create a memorable piece of British comedy history.

Additionally, the backdrop against which the narrative unfolds is well-thought-out and expertly executed. The film's setting - a quaint British suburb - adds a touch of allure to the narrative. It is the perfect canvas for this hilarious tale to unfold, framing the characters in picturesque landscapes and complementing the film's vintage humor.

Jimmy Edwards gives a memorable performance as an affluent yet stingy man, forcing laughter out of viewers with his wittiness and eccentric facial expressions. Eric Sykes, donning the cap of a policeman, doesn’t miss a beat, making his audience dissolve in laughter through his trademark slapstick humor and expressive face. Bob Todd provides additional comic relief as the cranky old groundskeeper presented through unpredictable eccentricities and reactions, further enhancing the humor quotient of the film.

Rhubarb Rhubarb manages to immerse viewers in its humorous storyline while pulling off an unconventional silent script that doesn’t hamper communication in the least. The film is an excellent showcase of physical comedy that balances the humor without making it feel overbearing, making it a must-watch for lovers of classic British comedy.

In conclusion, this short film delivers a unique brand of comedy set in an equally unique context making it a treat to watch and cherish. Rhubarb Rhubarb is such a quirky movie that it'll leave you chuckling even hours after, and the story will probably remain etched in your memory for a long time. It is certainly a classic comedy that deserves recognition and applause for its groundbreaking and genuinely hilarious concept.