Watch Sir Henry at Rawlinson End

Sir Henry at Rawlinson End is a British comedy film released in 1980. Directed by Steve Roberts and written by Vivian Stanshall - a British musician and comedian - the film is based on his own novel of the same name, published in 1978. The movie is set in the English countryside, where Sir Henry Rawlinson (played by Trevor Howard) lives in his ancestral home, Rawlinson End, with his family and eccentric household staff. Sir Henry is a boisterous and loutish character, with a strong penchant for sherry, questionable poetry recitation, and dramatic outbursts. His wife, Lady Phillistina Rawlinson (played by Denise Coffey), is an equally odd character, prone to gossip and bouts of hysteria. The couple's son, Hubert (played by J.G. Devlin), is a quiet and enigmatic figure, while Aunt Florrie (played by Sheila Steafel) is a mad old woman who hallucinates an imaginary husband and a pet crocodile.

The film revolves around various adventures, pranks, and mishaps that take place within the Rawlinson household. These include a heated argument over a precious urn, a séance gone wrong, and a bizarre game of hide-and-seek. Meanwhile, a mysterious figure known only as "Scrotum" (played by Patrick Magee) pops up from time to time, spouting cryptic messages about the end of the world and preaching the gospel of the "Napoleon of Notting Hill."

The movie is a satirical commentary on the fading British aristocracy, poking fun at their snobbery, eccentricity, and disregard for the common people. Stanshall's script is full of witty one-liners and absurd situations, making for an enjoyable and offbeat viewing experience. The film also features a whimsical and surreal soundtrack, composed and performed by Stanshall himself, which adds to the overall oddness of the proceedings.

While the film might not be for everyone, particularly those who prefer straightforward narratives and conventional humor, it's a cult classic that has gained a dedicated following over the years. Its quirky characters, absurd storyline, and irreverent tone make it a unique and memorable addition to the genre of British black comedy.