The Goose Steps Out
The Goose Steps Out

Movie spotlight

The Goose Steps Out

1942
Movie
79 min
English

Schoolteacher William Potts is the double of a captured German spy, so he is sent to Germany by British Intelligence to obtain the plans of a new secret weapon, causing chaos in a Hitler Youth school in the process.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Michael Powell, Emeric PressburgerGenres: Comedy, War

Plot Summary

During World War II, a bumbling, eccentric English schoolmaster, known for his absent-mindedness, is mistaken for a German spy. He is recruited by the British secret service to infiltrate a German spy ring operating in England. However, his incompetence and constant mishaps lead to unexpected successes, much to the bewilderment of both the British and the German agents.

Critical Reception

The Goose Steps Out was a popular wartime comedy that provided lighthearted entertainment for audiences during a difficult period. While not considered a critical masterpiece, it was generally well-received for its humor and Will Hay's signature comedic performance. Its patriotic undertones and escapist nature made it a successful feature.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its lighthearted wartime humor and Will Hay's comedic talent.

  • Seen as an effective piece of escapist entertainment for its time.

  • Some found the plot to be somewhat thin, relying heavily on slapstick.

Google audience: Audience reception is difficult to gauge with modern metrics, but contemporary reviews indicate it was a well-liked comedy that served its purpose as wartime morale booster.

Fun Fact

The film was made during World War II and was intended to provide some light relief and patriotic sentiment to audiences, portraying the enemy as somewhat foolish.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Will Hay delivers quite well in this wartime pick-me-up of a film. He is discovered to be the spitting image for a Nazi general who happens to be in charge of a prestigious Hitler Youth establishment. As you'd expect, his character "Potts" ...