Touch and Go

Touch and Go, directed by Michael Truman and released in 1955, is a charming, light-hearted comedy-drama starring the incomparable Jack Hawkins, accomplished Margaret Johnston, and dashing June Thorburn. Set against the backdrop of postwar London, this British comedy, also known as The Light Touch in the United States, takes a subtle yet entertaining look at the bucolic allure of migration and the classic city versus country life debate.

The story follows the life of Jim Fletcher (Jack Hawkins), a successful furniture designer living in London. His life takes an adventurous turn when, as an unintended consequence of a fog-induced incident, he makes up his mind to migrate from bustling London to placid Australia. This decision that dramatically alters his life, stems from an unfortunate accident; a foggy encounter with a dog becomes a catalyst for his whimsical urge to leave his homeland. Subtly reflective of the post-war migration wave, the film interestingly captures the charming naivete and trials of a man itching to escape the city's chaos, a decision that meets bureaucracies, familial disagreements, and more.

Margaret Johnston takes on the challenging role of Helen Fletcher, Jim's loving but sensibly-grounded wife, who is reluctant to leave her comfortable urban lifestyle. Her incredible performance manages to capture the essence of the conflict between her love for her husband and her skepticism towards his abrupt decision. The budding romance between Helen's younger sister, Susan, immaculately portrayed by June Thorburn, and their new-found friend, Ron, provides the film a refreshing contrast to the couple's disquieting predicament.

Jack Hawkins' performance is undoubtedly the pillar driving the movie's narrative. His transformation from a cheeky yet ambitious Londoner to a man irked by the complexities of the migration process is compelling. His performance shows the natural flair and charm that made him an endearing figure in British cinema. Nevertheless, it's his interactions with his spouse, Helen, which form the crux of the film. The incredibly realistic portrayal of their relationship steeped in love, understanding, occasional disagreements, and mutual respect is a testament to its time's cinematic authenticity.

Margaret Johnston as Helen supplies Touch and Go with its sensible heart. While she might not encompass the audacity of her husband, she becomes the balancing element, keeping the family grounded. Her portrayal of a loving wife, a caring sister, and an even-handed woman trying to come to terms with her husband's startling decision, forms a subplot at the core of the narrative.

June Thorburn plays Helen's younger sister Susan, a subtly rebellious and pleasant change. Her involvement with George Cole's portrayal of Ron, a cheeky yet lovable rogue, adds a sweet, youthful edge to a story steeped in marital discord and migration woes.

The film Touch and Go is not just a familial drama but a small-scale reflection of the '50s society. Through rich character development, the film comically yet truthfully captures the bureaucracy and frustrations surrounding migration. With its charming characters and an engaging story, laced with the quintessential British humour, the film taps onto a unique slice of the post-war British life, wrestling with reconstruction and the idea of a brighter, calmer life abroad.

Though primarily a comedy, Touch and Go does not shy away from adding layers of depth to its narrative. Adding to its charm are the quintessential quirks and nuances—baking bread, petty family squabbles, routine life quests—that make it so relatable, so human. On top of the engaging performances by the leads and the supporting cast, the crisp direction by Truman, combined with punchy and sharp dialogues, add energy and brevity, making Touch and Go standout in the genre of comedy-drama.

The charm of Touch and Go lies in its relatability. It is an entertaining, thoughtful look into the challenges of everyday life, highlighting the value of love, compromise, and understanding. Backed by stellar performances, sharp and humorous writing, and smooth direction, the film strikes the right balance between humour and emotion, thereby offering an engaging cinematic experience.

Anyone with an inclination for a period piece, a subtle commentary on postwar society underlined with a balanced mix of humour, emotion, and wit will find Touch and Go an intriguing and charming addition to their watchlist.