Watch Man of the Moment

Man of the Moment is a delightful British comedy from 1955. Directed by John Paddy Carstairs, the movie stars Norman Wisdom as a window cleaner named Norman Hackett who accidentally saves the life of a wealthy businessman. This lucky encounter sets Norman on a path to fame and fortune, with plenty of laughs and mishaps along the way.

Norman is a cheerful, somewhat bumbling fellow who dreams of becoming a famous singer. He spends his days cleaning windows in London and his nights practicing his vocals. One day, he is working on a high-rise building when he sees a man (played by Raymond Huntley) apparently attempting to jump to his death. Norman manages to grab the man's leg just in time, and the grateful businessman rewards him with a check for £1,000.

Thrilled by his good fortune, Norman uses the money to buy a flashy suit and start his singing career. He quickly becomes a sensation, thanks in part to the machinations of his new agent, played by Lana Morris. But as Norman's star rises, he finds himself caught up in a web of intrigue and duplicity. He must navigate the world of showbiz while also dealing with his jealous girlfriend (played by Belinda Lee) and a gang of crooks who want to use his newfound fame for their own purposes.

One of the strengths of Man of the Moment is its charming cast of characters. Norman Wisdom is perfectly cast as Norman Hackett, bringing his trademark physical comedy and affable naivete to the role. He has a great rapport with Morris, who plays his scheming but ultimately kind-hearted agent. Lee is also excellent as the spurned lover who is initially suspicious of Norman's motives but eventually sees the error of her ways.

The movie is also notable for its catchy musical numbers. Norman sings several songs throughout the film, including the memorable "Don't Laugh at Me," which became a hit in the UK after the movie's release. The other musical performances are also well-staged, with vibrant choreography and colorful sets.

But Man of the Moment isn't just a series of song-and-dance routines. The plot is full of twists and turns, keeping the audience engaged and guessing until the very end. There are some genuinely suspenseful moments, particularly toward the climax of the film. And of course, there are plenty of comedic set-pieces, including a hilarious sequence in which Norman tries to hide from the police in a hotel room.

Overall, Man of the Moment is a charming and entertaining film that showcases Norman Wisdom's considerable talents. It's a testament to his enduring popularity that the movie remains a beloved classic more than six decades after its release. Whether you're a fan of classic British cinema or just looking for a good laugh, Man of the Moment is well worth a watch.