Trouble in Store

Trouble in Store is a classic 1953 British comedy film directed by John Paddy Carstairs, offering a delightful blend of slapstick humor, vivacious performances, and well-timed comedic act.

The film showcases the unparalleled talent of the virtuoso comedian, Norman Wisdom. His portrayal of the eponymous character, the inept, clumsy yet resourceful and spirited store clerk, Norman, is inarguably the centerpiece of this comedy. His ingeniously physical comedy spearheads much of the film’s humor, and his impish charm wins over hearts in a truly unparalleled style.

Equally noteworthy is the iconic English actress, Margaret Rutherford, who plays the role of Miss Bacon, a fastidious and seemingly enigmatic spinster bookkeeper who's not as lucid as other characters in the story, yet her subtlety and quite peculiar ways brings a surprising fascination and depth to her character.

The beguiling and glamorous South African-born British actress, Moira Lister, plays a dual role in the film - Sally, a sharp and ambitious fashion department worker and Norman’s love interest, while also portraying her malevolent twin sister who involves Sally in an elaborate larceny scheme. Moira Lister’s striking elegance alongside her versatile acting prowess breathes life into these twin characters, thereby making the plot more complex and riveting.

Wisdom's character, Norman, works in the Burridges department store. Despite being an entry-level clerk, his dream is to become the store's window dresser—a role that he is continually thwarted from achieving due to his frequent inability to keep out of trouble. However, Norman is not the one to give up easily, and his relentless pursuit to earn the much-desired position endears us to him, making us root for him along his journey. Packed in a uniform that's too big for him, tripping over scraps of paper, Wisdom showcases his flair for physical humor and comedy timing incredibly well, captivating audiences with his performances throughout the film.

The glamour of Burridges department store, often referred to as a palace of consumer dreams, is recreated immaculately in the film. The impressive production design, stunning costumes, and the busy atmosphere of a functioning department store wonderfully capture the hustle and bustle of post-WWII Britain. This serves as the perfect backdrop for funny situations and high-jinks that our lead character, Norman, continually finds himself in.

The cleverly constructed narrative unveils itself as squabbles, incidental blunders, and appearances of eccentric characters become intertwined with the more serious plot thread regarding a theft in the store - a story arc that adds a pinch of suspense and adventure to this comedy.

Trouble in Store is impressively directed by John Paddy Carstairs, who maintains the movie's sprightly pace and amplifies its comedic effect. The director knows when to let the scene breathe, allowing the performances to shine while still keeping the narrative always moving forward.

The film’s script, filled with wisecracks and well-placed comic bits, is tight and humorous, masterfully integrating the charm of the setting, the wit of the situations, and the appeal of its leading man to create a unique comedic delight consistently. It is underscored by a captivating score that lifts the moods and accentuates the comedy's pacing.

At its heart, Trouble in Store is a warm and engaging comedy film that revolves around a socially clumsy yet highly spirited hero. The blend of an entertaining plot, light-hearted humor, and outstanding performances, makes it a genuine amusement ride. It remains an iconic piece of British cinema, and a testament to the timeless appeal of Norman Wisdom's comedic panache. The film is perfect for viewers who love classic cinema, enjoy slapstick humor, or are charmed by the simple yet engaging style of storytelling from the golden era of British film. Throughout, the movie stays true to its genre, guaranteeing its audiences' plentiful laughs, amusement, and a dash of romance and suspense to keep them on the edge of their seats.