Father's Doing Fine
| Company type | Film |
|---|---|
| Industry | Film industry |
| Founded | 1952 |
| Founder | Henry Cass (director), Anne Burnaby (screenwriter) |
| Headquarters | United Kingdom |
| Products | Comedy film |
Father's Doing Fine is a British comedy film from 1952, helmed by director Henry Cass and featuring performances by Richard Attenborough, Heather Thatcher, and Noel Purcell, with Sid James appearing in a supporting capacity. The screenplay, penned by Anne Burnaby, adapts the 1948 stage play Little Lambs Eat Ivy authored by Noel Langley.
Plot
Set in Hampstead, the narrative centers on Lady Buckering, an upper-class widow who juggles financial difficulties while raising her four demanding daughters, one of whom is pregnant. The storyline explores the anxieties surrounding the expectant father and complications involving their troublesome butler, ultimately resolving with Lady Buckering entering into marriage with the family physician.
Cast
- Richard Attenborough as Dougall
- Heather Thatcher as Lady Buckering
- Noel Purcell as Shaughnessy
- George Thorpe as Dr Drew
- Diane Hart as Doreen
- Susan Stephen as Bicky
- Mary Germaine as Gerda
- Virginia McKenna as Catherine
- Jack Watling as Clifford Magill
- Peter Hammond as Roly
- Brian Worth as Wilfred
- Sid James as Taxi Driver
- Ambrosine Phillpotts as Nurse Pynegar
- Wensley Pithey as Police Constable
- Jonathan Field as Zookeeper
- Harry Locke as Father in Zoo
Production
Production was backed by the Elstree Group, a funding initiative for British cinema undertaken by the Associated British Pictures Corporation during the early 1950s, supplemented by financial support from the National Film Finance Corporation. Filming took place at the Elstree Studios operated by Associated British, with set designs crafted by art director Donald M. Ashton.
Critical reception
According to The Monthly Film Bulletin, while George Thorpe and Heather Thatcher delivered restrained performances, much of the younger cast tended toward overacting; nevertheless, it described the film as a "moderately entertaining" piece expected to attract audiences, noting its vibrant color presentation.
Picture Show characterized the movie as a "lively, crazy domestic comedy," commending its spirited direction and strong acting.
TV Guide referred to it as a "fast-moving, loosely plotted comedy," labeling it straightforward entertainment without pretense.
The Radio Times praised Henry Cass's sharp directorial approach and vigorous performances, observing that although some humor feels somewhat outdated, the brisk pacing maintains viewer engagement throughout.
In British Sound Films: The Studio Years 1928–1959, critic David Quinlan gave it a "good" rating, describing it as a "busy boisterous comedy" abundant with humor and energy.