Stand up, Virgin Soldiers (1977)

Film Overview
"Stand Up, Virgin Soldiers" is a British comedy-drama war film released in 1977, which serves as a follow up to the earlier film "The Virgin Soldiers" (1969). The movie was directed by Norman Cohen and mainly set in Singapore during the Malayan Emergency of the 1950s. The movie script was co-written by Leslie Thomas and John Hopkins, based upon the novel of the exact same name by Thomas.

Plot Overview
The plot continues the exploits of a group of National Servicemen conscripted to serve in the British Army in Singapore. The soldiers, led by the excitable Private Brigg (Robin Askwith) and his amiable commander, Sergeant Wellbeloved (Nigel Davenport), are stationed in a shockingly bawdy setting overrun by hard-partying high-rank Officers, prostitute sweethearts, and a bunch of even-ruder adversaries. The movie presents a comical take on the grim truth of the circumstance, highlighting the soldiers' frequently awkward attempts to work out social norms and rules of the military while handling the grittier aspects of war.

Characters and Characterization
Brigg, the lead character, is a combination of naivety and charm. His requirement to browse the unusual world of debauchery, deceit and discipline, in spite of remaining a virgin, lends a funny touch to the story. Wellbeloved, his exceptional, emerges as a colorful character with a penchant for ladies and drinking, suppressing a compassionate side that becomes the story unfolds. Other notable characters include Phillip (John Leyton), a naive new hire, and Juicy Lucy (Pamela Stephenson), a regional woman of the street who becomes involved with the males.

Themes and Reception
"Stand Up, Virgin Soldiers" checks out styles of task, camaraderie, sexuality, and the absurdity of war, often invoking biting sarcasm and broad humor to take a look at the military bureaucracy. Furthermore, it continues and broadens on the societal and gender-based critiques started in the very first film.

The film received blended evaluations from critics. Some hailed it for its uncompromising humor and distinct take on military life, while others critiqued the overt sexual material and clichéd character stereotypes. However, the movie has given that acquired a cult status among enthusiasts of British military comedies.

Conclusion
Throughout its course, "Stand Up, Virgin Soldiers" keeps a high level of irreverence towards traditional concepts of authority and discipline, relentlessly satirizing the stiffer aspects of military life. While it might be considered controversial due to its specific material and desensitized portrayal of war, the movie is a slice-of-life story that offers an unique perspective on the National Service experience in a distinctive context. Despite its controversial material, "Stand Up, Virgin Soldiers" remains an essential entry in the landscape of British war funnies.

Top Cast