There Was a Crooked Man

There Was a Crooked Man is an engaging and lighthearted film from 1960. This British comedy classic stars the iconic Norman Wisdom, a highly popular comedian of his generation known for his slapstick film roles in the UK. The stellar cast is strengthened by other talented performers, such as Alfred Marks and Andrew Cruickshank, who bring the world of the movie to life with their gripping performances.

The narrative of the film is focused on the life of Davy Cooper (played by Norman Wisdom), a construction site worker who, due to a misunderstanding, is mistaken for a notorious international thief and espionage mastermind. Through a series of humorous mix-ups and adventures, Davy finds himself in situations strictly out of his depth, all the while having to stay one step ahead of the law.

Wisdom’s brilliant performance as Davy Cooper highlights his very distinctive and well-loved brand of humor. His character symbolizes the classic 'everyman' thrown into an extraordinary situation and forced to utilize his wit and charm not only to survive but to correct the misunderstandings. As the primary protagonist, Davy humanizes the story, making it more relatable and engrossing for the audience.

Alfred Marks is cast in the role of a cunning criminal mastermind, renowned internationally, and inaccurately believed by the authorities to be Davy. Marks's portrayal expertly delivers a character with a seemingly ruthless exterior but a humorous interior, leading to several laugh-out-loud moments. Marks compliments Wisdom brilliantly, and their on-screen chemistry makes for an entertaining watch.

The challenge of keeping up the charade becomes more complex when Andrew Cruickshank’s character, Colonel Grant, comes into the picture. Cruickshank plays a harassed and slightly bemused military man, whose life becomes closely entwined with Davy’s after a series of incidents he cannot explain.

The enthralling plot also provides a slice of life in Britain during the 1960s, with the movie capturing the unique atmosphere and characteristics of the era. Viewers can see the evolving fashion trends, household items, vehicles, and architectural styles typical of the period, giving them a peek into life during a time past.

There Was a Crooked Man, directed by Stuart Burge, is an homage to the classic British comedy. The film, penned by Reuben Ship, an award-winning writer, combines an engrossing storyline with lighthearted comedy, maintaining a balanced narrative that keeps viewers entertained from beginning to end. The film does a remarkable job of creating a world filled with intrigue and humour, firmly rooted in the period it represents.

The film's title, drawn from an old English nursery rhyme, sets up expectations for a fun, tongue-in-cheek interpretation of the life of a man mistakenly believed to be crooked. The whimsical nature of the film and the humorous circumstances under which characters interact bring everyday locales of the bustling city life and the quiet countryside of England to life on screen.

Overall, There Was a Crooked Man is a delightful British comedy and an excellent example of the classic slapstick stylings for which Norman Wisdom was so well-known. The film offers a dynamic, hilarious, and entertaining cinematic experience, featuring great performances, a well-paced narrative, and brilliant comedic timing. Whether you're a fan of British cinema, looking to relive the classic film era, or seeking a film that leaves you laughing, There Was a Crooked Man is worth a watch.