Watch Carry On Girls

Carry On Girls is a classic British comedy film released in 1973 and directed by Gerald Thomas, starring Sidney James, Barbara Windsor, Joan Sims, and many other notable actors of the genre. The film has become one of the most beloved installments of the Carry On franchise, known for its witty humor, energetic performances, and playful portrayal of seaside towns and beauty pageants.

The plot of the movie revolves around the fictional town of Fircombe, which is hoping to boost its tourism and reputation by hosting a beauty contest. The mayor (played by Sidney James) and his team of officials and organizers, including the town clerk and the chief of police, spare no efforts in making the pageant a grand success. Meanwhile, a group of beauty contestants arrives from various parts of the country, each with their own unique characteristics and aspirations. Among them is Hope Springs (played by Barbara Windsor), a voluptuous and vivacious young woman who captures the attention of practically everyone in Fircombe.

As the preparations for the beauty contest begin, chaos and hilarity ensue, with the contestants and the officials getting into various mishaps and misunderstandings. From a malfunctioning stage to a bumbling judge, from a group of rowdy builders to a determined feminist protestor, the movie throws in a plethora of comedic situations and gags that keep the viewers engaged and entertained.

One of the most memorable aspects of Carry On Girls is its colorful cast of characters, each played by experienced and talented actors who bring their own personality and humor to the screen. Sidney James is at his best as the crafty and flirtatious mayor, constantly scheming and seducing his way through the film. Barbara Windsor shines as the charismatic and charming Hope, whose wit and sex appeal make her a standout in the contest. Joan Sims is as hilarious as ever as Miss Haggerd, the secretary of the mayor who gets caught up in the chaos of the pageant.

The film also features notable performances by Kenneth Connor, who plays the hapless town clerk who tries to keep everyone in check; Jack Douglas, who portrays the unscrupulous builder who has his eyes on the prize; and Bernard Bresslaw, who plays the giant and shy baker who falls in love with one of the contestants. The chemistry and interaction between the characters are a major strength of Carry On Girls, adding depth and dimension to the humor and plot.

Another significant aspect of the film is its portrayal of the beauty contest and the culture around it. While the movie employs some of the stereotypes and cliches associated with such events, it also subverts them in clever and playful ways. The contestants are shown as diverse and capable women with their own goals and dreams, rather than mere objects of desire. The film also touches upon issues of gender equality, sexual harassment, and social norms. Though the themes may not be as explicit or nuanced as in contemporary films, they add a subtext of relevance to the movie.

Carry On Girls is also notable for its portrayal of the seaside town of Fircombe, which serves as a backdrop for the pageant and the ensuing chaos. The movie captures the spirit and quirks of small English towns, with its narrow streets, quaint shops, and quirky inhabitants. The seaside setting adds a refreshing and nostalgic feel to the film, evoking memories of summer holidays and seaside resorts.

Overall, Carry On Girls is a fun and lighthearted comedy that delivers on its promise of laughter and entertainment. With its clever script, talented cast, and playful approach to the beauty contest genre, the film has become a classic of British cinema and a beloved installment of the Carry On franchise. Whether you are a fan of the series or a newcomer to the world of British comedy, the movie is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a chuckle in your heart.

Carry On Girls is a 1973 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8.