What a Crazy World
| Company type | Film |
|---|---|
| Industry | Entertainment |
| Founded | 1963 |
| Founder | Michael Carreras, Alan Klein |
| Products | Pop musical motion picture |
What a Crazy World is a 1963 British pop musical motion picture directed by Michael Carreras, with a screenplay co-authored by Carreras and Alan Klein, adapted from Klein's theatrical production. The movie showcases notable musical performers from the late 1950s and early 1960s, such as Joe Brown, Marty Wilde, Susan Maughan, and Freddie and the Dreamers. Additionally, Klein makes a brief appearance alongside Brown and Wilde.
Plot
Alf Hitchens, an unemployed youth from a working-class background, endeavors to enter the music business by promoting a song he wrote that reflects his personal struggles. Throughout this pursuit, he navigates an intermittent romantic relationship with Marilyn Bishop. Michael Ripper features in several cameo appearances, providing commentary on the younger generation.
Cast
- Joe Brown portraying Alf Hitchens
- Susan Maughan as Marilyn Bishop
- Marty Wilde in the role of Herbie Shadbolt
- Harry H. Corbett playing Sam Hitchens, Alf's father
- Avis Bunnage as Mary Hitchens, Alf's mother
- Michael Ripper appearing as Common Man
- Grazina Frame as Doris Hitchens
- Monte Landis in the role of Solly Gold
- Michael Goodman as Joey Hitchens
- Freddie and the Dreamers performing as Frantic Freddie and The Dreamers
- Alan Klein cast as Jervis
Box Office
Kinematograph Weekly recognized the film as a financial success at the UK box office during 1964.
Critical reception
According to The Monthly Film Bulletin, the film sought to exploit elements of the British 'New Wave' and Joan Littlewood’s theatrical approach by blending pop music with Cockney culture and teenage stereotypes. Despite commendable cinematography by Otto Heller and some entertaining sequences, criticism was directed at repetitive dialogue, uninspired musical performances, and weak directorial execution. Marty Wilde’s role was singled out as a standout amid otherwise mediocre acting.
Leslie Halliwell described it as a predictable yet spirited star-driven musical typical of its genre.
The Radio Times Guide to Films assigned it a 2/5 rating, calling it a pleasant but somewhat dated musical. It praised performances by Joe Brown and the Bruvvers, Freddie and the Dreamers, Susan Maughan, and Marty Wilde during their prime but noted that the storyline was thin between musical numbers.
Releases
In July 2014, Network Video reissued the film along with its original theatrical trailer.