TV Show spotlight

On the Buses

1973

TV Show

Ended

7 Seasons

English

On the Buses is a British comedy series created by Ronald Wolfe and Ronald Chesney, broadcast in the United Kingdom from 1969 to 1973. The writers' previous successes with The Rag Trade and Meet the Wife were for the BBC, but the corporation rejected On the Buses, not seeing much comedy potential in a bus depot as a setting. The comedy partnership turned to a friend, Frank Muir, Head of Entertainment at London Weekend Television, who loved the idea; the show was accepted and despite a poor critical reception became a hit with viewers.

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IMDb5.6/10

Director: Arthur Lowe•Genres: Comedy

Plot Summary

The film follows the exploits of Stan Butler, a bus conductor, and his fellow workers at the Luxton & District Traction Company. When a new uniform inspector is introduced, the staff find themselves facing new rules and regulations, leading to a series of comedic mishaps and attempts to outwit the new authority. The antics escalate as they try to circumvent the new system, often with disastrously funny consequences.

Critical Reception

On the Buses (1973) was a commercial success, capitalizing on the immense popularity of the television series. Critics at the time generally acknowledged its broad appeal and slapstick humor, though many noted its reliance on the established formula and perceived lack of sophistication. Audience reception was overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the show's massive fanbase.

What Reviewers Say

Relies heavily on the established comedic routines from the TV show.
Features broad, physical humor and cheeky innuendo.
Seen by many as a simple, light-hearted comedy vehicle for its TV stars.

Google audience: Audience reviews are generally positive, with many viewers appreciating the nostalgic humor and the performances of the main cast, particularly Bob Grant and Stephen Lewis. Some find the humor dated, but it remains a beloved film for fans of the original series.