The Man in the White Suit
Dir: Alexander Mackendrick
1951
****
Alexander Mackendrick's The Man in the White Suit is classic Ealing comedy and so much more. I'm a huge fan of the studios comedy spree that lasted for 17 films (The Man in the White Suit being number 9) made between 1947 and 1957. All of the comedies are inventive in their own unique way but only The Man in the White Suit deals with political similarities. Passport to Pimlico dealt with politics but mainly highlighted differences, here they explore similarities between Big enterprise and trade unions and how both can quash development for their own gain. Doesn't sound like much of a comedy but I assure you it is. Alec Guinness typically plays it straight to great effect but is supported by a great list of actors who exaggerate each performance perfectly. It's quite a revealing subject considering the time it was made, post-war Britain was on the up but this film really was ahead of its time.

The Maggie (aka High & Dry)
Dir: Alexander Mackendrick
1954
****
The Maggie or 'High and Dry' as it's also known as, is one of the later and lesser known Ealing Comedies. It's a simple premise but full of as much charm as you can get in a comedy. The Maggie's rag-tag crew are what makes the film, no less so than the Skipper played perfectly by Alex Mackenzie. Director Alexander Mackendrick is remembered for many of his other, more successful films such as The Man in the White Suit, The Ladykillers and Sweet Smell of Success but The Maggie is his greatest achievement when it comes to timing, pace and editing in my opinion. Nothing is rushed and everything is subtle, the action happens five seconds after you expect, adding to the overall charm and comedy of the story. An unappreciated gem.

Whiskey Galore
Dir: Alexander Mackendrick
1949
****
When ever I think about Whisky Galore I can't help but remember the very funny spoof sketch from the very funny Comedy sketch show, The Fast Show. Instead of Whisky, the sketch shows the locals enjoying tons of cocaine that are washed up in a shipwreck. It's all very funny. Thanks probably because the original film is funny, thus deserving a affectionate spoof. It's a bit of a British classic but I'm not too sure it's traveled much which is a shame. It's a very sweet, funny and charming film full of great characters and warm laughs. To be enjoyed with a glass of single malt for sure.