Oh, Mr. Porter!
Oh, Mr. Porter!

Movie spotlight

Oh, Mr. Porter!

1937
Movie
85 min
English

Comedy in which a bungling railway worker is given the job of stationmaster at a rundown station in rural Ireland, where his sidekicks are a toothless old gaffer and a portly young loudmouth. Hilarious adventures ensue, including a locomotive chase after gunrunners make off with a train.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: Marcel VarnelGenres: Comedy, War

Plot Summary

A bumbling, incompetent railway stationmaster is transferred to a remote outpost in Northern Ireland during wartime. Expecting a quiet posting, he instead finds himself entangled in espionage and sabotage when a German spy ring attempts to disrupt troop movements. Despite his best efforts to maintain order and catch the culprits, his accidental interventions often lead to more chaos than solutions.

Critical Reception

Oh, Mr. Porter! was a resounding success upon its release, becoming one of the most popular British comedies of its era. It is widely regarded as a classic of the "old dark house" genre, blending slapstick humor with a suspenseful plot. The film's enduring appeal lies in its memorable characters, witty dialogue, and Will Hay's masterful comedic performance. It cemented the trio of Hay, Marriott, and Moffatt as a beloved comedy team.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its brilliant comedic performances, especially from Will Hay.

  • Applauded for its clever blend of slapstick, mystery, and wartime suspense.

  • Considered a timeless classic of British comedy.

Google audience: While specific Google user ratings are not readily available for this older film, audience reception has historically been overwhelmingly positive, with many viewers appreciating its nostalgic humor and enduring charm.

Fun Fact

The film was part of a highly successful series of comedies starring Will Hay, Moore Marriott, and Graham Moffatt, often referred to as the "St. Michael's Mount" comedies, due to their shared characters and comedic style.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
John Chard

John Chard

I want a ticket to Birmingham but you've given me one to Crewe... ...Oh Mr Porter what a funny man you are. William Porter is an inept railway worker who keeps getting fired from his various positions in the industry. In spite of his ...