Watch The Running Jumping & Standing Still Film

The Running Jumping & Standing Still Film is a unique and memorable piece of British cinema that has captured the imaginations of audiences since its release in 1959. Directed by Richard Lester, who would later become famous for his work on 'A Hard Day's Night' and 'Help!' with The Beatles, the film is an 11-minute short that was groundbreaking for its time, both in its form and content. It stars Richard Lester himself, along with comedic legends such as Peter Sellers and Dick Bentley, who contribute to the film’s eccentric and whimsical atmosphere.

The film eschews a traditional narrative structure and instead presents a series of loosely connected comedic vignettes, all shot in a silent film style, despite being produced well into the era of sound films. It bears the hallmarks of silent-era greats like Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin, with visual gags and physical comedy taking center stage. Accompanied by a fitting musical score that enhances the comedic effect, The Running Jumping & Standing Still Film relies almost entirely on visual humor and sight gags for its storytelling, delivering a whimsical form of comedy that is both timeless and innovative.

The film’s setting is an idyllic, sometimes surreal, countryside where the main characters undertake a variety of odd and visually amusing activities. Dressed in the attire of seemingly ordinary middle-class Britons, the actors perform actions that range from the mundane to the bizarre. One could view these sketches as a wry commentary on the ennui of daily life or simply as zany humor intended to provoke laughter and surprise.

Peter Sellers, renowned for his versatility and timing, excels in one non-sequitur after another, showcasing his remarkable range and cementing his stature as one of the great comedic minds of his generation. His style is both understated and expressive, a comedic dichotomy that few performers can pull off successfully. Richard Lester also proves his mettle not just as a director, but as a performer, often playing off of Seller's antics or engaging in his own odd and humorous behavior.

Dick Bentley, while less known internationally than Sellers, brings a particular charm to the film with his earnest yet comical presence. His interactions with the other characters contribute to the sense of controlled chaos that permeates the short film.

The Running Jumping & Standing Still Film has the appearance of being improvised, yet it is clear that a great deal of thought and preparation went into the execution of its sketches. The camera work demonstrates an experimental edge, employing various techniques such as quick cuts, long takes, and playing with focus to accentuate the humor. This experimentation with camera techniques would later influence the developing music video style and become a trademark of Lester’s direction in his feature films.

Perhaps what sets the film apart from other comedies of its time is its embrace of absurdity and its rejection of traditional narrative. It is as if the creators threw a montage of slapstick, improv, and visual quirks into a cinema blender to create something that is both a nod to the past and a glance toward the future of comedic film.

The influence of The Running Jumping & Standing Still Film extends beyond its immediate impact. The Beatles, who admired the film, sought out Lester to direct some of their own films, which explains why the humor and style from this short can be seen echoed in the Fab Four's cinematic outings. Additionally, the film received an unusual honor for a comedy short of its nature: a nomination for an Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film, solidifying its significance as an influential piece of cinematic art.

Its legacy is also evident in how it expanded the notion that a short film could be more than just a format for up-and-coming directors to cut their teeth. It demonstrated that a short could be an artistic statement in itself, capable of leaving a lasting impression and inspiring future filmmakers.

In summation, The Running Jumping & Standing Still Film stands out as a slice of comedy history, a testament to the creativity and visionary direction of Richard Lester, and the comedic genius of Peter Sellers and Dick Bentley. It's a sublime blend of the absurd and the profound, simplicity, and sophistication, existing as a timeless short film that continues to be studied, enjoyed, and referenced long after its initial release. For fans of classic comedy, fans of film history, or anyone looking for an avant-garde cinematic experience, this film remains a must-watch.