Time, Gentlemen, Please!
Time, Gentlemen, Please!

Time, Gentlemen, Please!

1952Movie82 minEnglish

Because of its high productivity and "almost" 100 per cent employment, the town of Hayhoe, England is expecting a visit from the Prime Minister. The "almost" is because of Dan Dance (Eddie Byrne), an old rogue who would rather drink and philosophize than work. The Village Council are determined to have a perfect record so they connive to have the old man put into the alms-house which has been unoccupied for many years, where he must abide by rules laid down 400 years ago. A new Vicar arrives and discovers that, because of the circumstances created by the Council, Dan Dance is entitled to 6,000 pounds a year at the expense of the village.

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IMDb6.5/10
Director: Lewis GilbertGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A group of young men from a London working-class background, feeling disenfranchised after World War II, decide to attempt a daring robbery of a payroll. Their plans are complicated by internal conflicts, romantic entanglements, and the increasing scrutiny of the police. The film follows their desperate attempts to execute the heist while confronting the consequences of their choices and the societal pressures that led them down this path.

Critical Reception

Released during a period of post-war social change in Britain, 'Time, Gentlemen, Please!' was noted for its gritty realism and its portrayal of working-class youth. While not a commercial blockbuster, it garnered attention for its honest depiction of social issues and its suspenseful narrative. Critical responses often highlighted the film's authentic atmosphere and performances, though some found its tone bleak.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its realistic portrayal of post-war British society.
  • Noted for its tense suspense and effective direction.
  • Some critics found the subject matter and tone overly bleak.

Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available for this film.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location in London, contributing to its authentic, documentary-like feel.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
John Chard

John Chard

Your most tiresome fly in the ointment will be an Irish rebel. Time, Gentlemen, Please! is now part of a collection of British comedies called the Long Lost Comedy Classics. A collection of films that disappeared off the radar but now h...