Bill Walker
Well-Known Member
About time us cantankerous old fossils had our own thread where we can talk shit and bang on about the good old days.
Who remembers The Plank.
*The Plank* (1967) is a classic example of British slapstick comedy, directed by and starring Eric Sykes, alongside Tommy Cooper. The film is nearly wordless, relying instead on physical gags, expressive sounds, and impeccable timing to deliver its humor. It tells the simple yet chaotic story of two hapless builders who attempt to transport a single wooden plank across town, resulting in a cascade of mishaps and comic encounters. Though the premise is modest, the execution is a masterclass in visual comedy, paying homage to silent-era traditions while infused with a distinctly British flavor.
Filmed primarily in the Putney area of London, *The Plank* offers a delightful snapshot of 1960s suburban life, with terraced houses, narrow streets, and period vehicles providing the backdrop for the mayhem. The film cleverly uses real locations to stage elaborate gags—from run-ins with pedestrians and vehicles to increasingly absurd obstacles that complicate the builders’ simple task. Putney's recognizable streets and urban character ground the humor in everyday British life, enhancing the relatability and charm of the film for local audiences.
Beyond its comedic brilliance, *The Plank* is celebrated for its ensemble cast of well-loved British comedians, including Jimmy Edwards, Hattie Jacques, and Roy Castle. Its success lies not only in its humor but in its nostalgic appeal, capturing a time when comedy was often physical, family-friendly, and rich with character. Decades later, *The Plank* remains a beloved piece of British cinema—a testament to the enduring power of simple storytelling told with expert comedic craft.
Who remembers The Plank.
*The Plank* (1967) is a classic example of British slapstick comedy, directed by and starring Eric Sykes, alongside Tommy Cooper. The film is nearly wordless, relying instead on physical gags, expressive sounds, and impeccable timing to deliver its humor. It tells the simple yet chaotic story of two hapless builders who attempt to transport a single wooden plank across town, resulting in a cascade of mishaps and comic encounters. Though the premise is modest, the execution is a masterclass in visual comedy, paying homage to silent-era traditions while infused with a distinctly British flavor.
Filmed primarily in the Putney area of London, *The Plank* offers a delightful snapshot of 1960s suburban life, with terraced houses, narrow streets, and period vehicles providing the backdrop for the mayhem. The film cleverly uses real locations to stage elaborate gags—from run-ins with pedestrians and vehicles to increasingly absurd obstacles that complicate the builders’ simple task. Putney's recognizable streets and urban character ground the humor in everyday British life, enhancing the relatability and charm of the film for local audiences.
Beyond its comedic brilliance, *The Plank* is celebrated for its ensemble cast of well-loved British comedians, including Jimmy Edwards, Hattie Jacques, and Roy Castle. Its success lies not only in its humor but in its nostalgic appeal, capturing a time when comedy was often physical, family-friendly, and rich with character. Decades later, *The Plank* remains a beloved piece of British cinema—a testament to the enduring power of simple storytelling told with expert comedic craft.
