Wonderful Things!
| Company type | Film |
|---|---|
| Industry | Film industry |
| Founded | 1958 |
| Founder | Herbert Wilcox (director), Jack Trevor Story (writer) |
| Products | Comedy romance film |
Wonderful Things! is a 1958 British comedy romance film helmed by director Herbert Wilcox, featuring performances by Frankie Vaughan, Jocelyn Lane, and Wilfrid Hyde-White. Penned by Jack Trevor Story, the storyline centers on two fisherman siblings who find themselves at odds over their affection for the same woman.
This production represents the second partnership out of four between Wilcox and Vaughan. Additionally, it marks the first screen appearance of comedian Ronnie Barker, who appears uncredited as a waiter.
Plot
In Gibraltar, brothers Carmello and Mario struggle as fishermen. Seeking better prospects, Carmello relocates to London, vowing to send funds so his girlfriend Pepita can join him. To expedite Pepita’s journey, Mario sells his boat; however, Pepita discovers her feelings for Mario instead. Meanwhile, Carmello becomes enamored with a disenchanted socialite.
Cast
- Frankie Vaughan as Carmello
- Jeremy Spenser as Mario
- Jocelyn Lane as Pepita (credited as Jackie Lane)
- Wilfrid Hyde-White as Sir Bertram
- Jean Dawnay as Anne
- Eddie Byrne as Harry
- Harold Kasket as Poppa
- Christopher Rhodes as Codger
- Nancy Nevinson as Mamma
- Cyril Chamberlain as butler
- Barbara Goalen as herself
- Liz Fraser as hot dog seller (uncredited)
- Ronnie Barker as waiter (uncredited)
Box office
According to Kinematograph Weekly, the movie performed reasonably well commercially despite limited chances for its star Frankie Vaughan to showcase his singing talents.
Critical reception
The review in The Monthly Film Bulletin characterized the film as "unsophisticated and ingenuous," noting it lacked the refinement commonly associated with Herbert Wilcox’s works. Memorable moments include Wilfrid Hyde-White’s witty dialogue, the film’s ironic ending, and Jean Dawnay’s elegant portrayal. Frankie Vaughan was recognized primarily for his singing, though his acting was considered less polished.
Sky Movies commented that audiences willing to accept Frankie Vaughan and Jeremy Spenser in the roles of Gibraltar fishermen would find enjoyment in this romantic light comedy produced by Anna Neagle, highlighting Jackie Lane’s superior performance compared to Jean Dawnay in her screen debut.
TV Guide described the film as an "engaging romance," while AllMovie praised Wilfrid Hyde-White for delivering the strongest performance, portraying the dry-humored father of the debutante.
References