Soft Beds, Hard Battles
Soft Beds, Hard Battles

Soft Beds, Hard Battles

1974Movie107 minEnglish

In this comedy, set during the Nazi occupation of France, Peter Sellers plays most major male parts, so he stars in nearly every scene, always bumbling in inspector Clouseau-style.

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IMDb6.2/10
Director: Roy Ward BakerGenres: Comedy, War

Plot Summary

During World War II, a corrupt French mayor, a collaborator with the Nazis, runs a string of brothels for the occupying German soldiers. However, he also secretly aids the French Resistance by smuggling downed Allied airmen out of the country. This dual role becomes increasingly complicated as he tries to maintain his profitable, albeit morally compromised, business while simultaneously engaging in acts of defiance against the enemy.

Critical Reception

Soft Beds, Hard Battles was met with a mixed reception from critics and audiences. While some appreciated its comedic take on a sensitive subject and Peter Sellers' performance, others found the humor to be somewhat broad and the plot occasionally uneven. It did not achieve significant critical acclaim but has a cult following among fans of Sellers' work.

What Reviewers Say

  • Peter Sellers' dual performance as the mayor and his twin brother is a highlight.
  • The film attempts a unique blend of wartime drama and broad comedy, with varying success.
  • Some viewers found the humor to be an acquired taste, while others appreciated its audaciousness.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce and not widely aggregated, but general sentiment suggests appreciation for Peter Sellers' comedic talent, though some find the film's tone to be an acquired taste.

Fun Fact

Peter Sellers famously played multiple roles in the film, including the corrupt French mayor and his twin brother, a character who is part of the French Resistance.

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