Customer Reviews

Steptoe & Son [VHS]

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Despite doses of slapstick, and the familiar banter between father and son, this is actually rather a sad film. The central theme of the television series (Harold held back by loyalty to his selfish father) was always levened by some homely BBC sets and only the most blousy and superficial love interest for Harold. In this cinema spin-off however, Harold falls in love with Zita (an excellent performance by Carolyn Seymour), marries, and is convinced he is a father - only to have each dream, in turn, shattered. This is certainly a comedy, and a good one at that, but with pathos turned to max, any hilarity available is of a distinctly dark hue.

In the 1970s, British audiences really enjoyed movie length versions of their favourite sitcoms. Hence films were made of "Father Dear Father", "Are You Being Served?", "George & Mildred" etc. This film is certainly worth watching if you were a fan of the TV series but don't expect the same thing. The script just doesn't have the polish the individual episodes have. Thus we have a perfectly acceptable lightweight concoction which provides some good chuckles but not the charm and pathos which we might expect from The Galton and Simpson writing team.

looks very nice, and is produced very well. Best of all, old Wilfrid really stretches out, and the guy playing his son doesn't ramble endlessly like he does in the TV show. And the girl in the story is gorgeous. Excellent all around.