This film featured a galaxy of 1950's comedy stars of radio and TV to showcase their talents. The storyline is essentially presenting a 'window' on National Service training, and although the script is thin, the humour of 'Carry on Sergeant' stems from watching those glorious comedy actors like Kenneth Connor, Charles Hawtrey, Hattie Jacques and Bill Owen. Plus the wonderful William Hartnell, who with his martinet sergeant Major voice, thundering across the parade ground, and his constant exasperation with the hopeless squad of solders he inherits, manages to sustain the interest of the audience. Bob Monkhouse never seemed comfortable in his role as a raw recruit and his romantic liaison with the 1950's pin up girl, Shirley Eaton, was responsible for some tedious and very ropey dialogue. Yes, it's very dated, and yes there are moments when the film sags, but the compensations of seeing so many well known and excellent character actors from the 50's is a joy in itself.
Review of Carry on Sergeant
