Privates on Parade [Region 2]

Buy This Item Privates on Parade [Region 2]  Available from Amazon  $19.98  on 11-29-2008     Hey, troops, let's put on a show! Befuddled, uptight John Cleese reluctantly commands the Song and Dance Unit South East Asia, a motley troupe of barnstorming performers who dress in drag to entertain the commie-fighting British jungle troops in 1948 Malaysia. Based on the satirical stage revue by Peter Nichols (<I>Georgy Girl</I>), the oddball mix of <I>Carry On</I> farce, military buffoonery, and backstage shenanigans makes an awkward transition to the screen. Behind the double entendres and broad gay caricatures (especially Dennis Quilley, who embraces his flamboyance with gusto as the unit's musical director and star performer) rumbles a murky political satire of the British Empire in decline. The idea is better than the execution, but even as a curiosity it has its moments. Don't skip the credits--a musical reprise with Cleese's only song and dance: a gangly legged goof that draws upon his time with the Department of Silly Walks. <I>--Sean Axmaker</I> Reader Reviews The problem with this movie is that it can't decide what kind of a movie it wants to be. I was expecting a manic comedy in the style the British handle so well. This is not a comedy. I don't want to give anything away for those of you who want to see this film, but I won't betray any surprises if I say that this is a mixture of musical numbers in drag, pathos, and very, very, heavy drama with only momemtary glimpses of humor. I found this film to be very much of a downer, so don't look here if you're looking for a good laugh.

Privates on Parade [Region 2] Available from Amazon Price: $19.98 Updated on 11-29-2008.

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