Overview"Present Laughter" is a British tv film from 1981 directed by Alan Cooke. The movie is an adaptation of Noël Coward's 1939 funny play of the exact same name. The movie includes Nigel Hawthorne, Peter Bowles, Dinah Sheridan among others and follows the life of a self-obsessed actor going through a mid-life crisis.
PlotThe storyline of "Present Laughter" focuses on the life of an effective however self-obsessed actor, Garry Essendine, brilliantly represented by Nigel Hawthorne. Essendine is dealing with a personal crisis as he approaches his 40th birthday. While coming to grips with midlife, he is beleaguered by the demands of women who are enamoured with him-- including his better half, girlfriends, and a fixated debutante-- all while attempting to compose and direct a play.
Characterization and PerformancesThe character of Essendine brings an eclectic mix of sophistry, appeal, and insecurity. Hawthorne masterfully brings alive the over-the-top personality of this self-obsessed actor who is concurrently attractive, yet exasperating. The film also includes an exemplary cast, including Dinah Sheridan, playing Essendine's estranged spouse - Liz, and Peter Bowles as the ever-reliable Morris Dixon. The characters are properly designed and every one of these brings an unique eccentricity to the plot.
Satire and ComedyStaying real to Noël Coward's original play, this film adjustment makes great usage of satire and funny. It humorously buffoons the vanity that typically accompanies success and fame, with the main character, Essendine, working as a personification of such traits. The humorous situations Essendine frequently discovers himself in, the overlapping discussions, the frenzied speed, and the satirical take on the market and the eccentricities of its individuals, all contribute to the laugh-aloud moments.
Production and DirectionAlan Cooke's production and direction handle to record the spirit of the original play in its full essence with its mid-20th century setting. The film reflects the elegance of its age through its sets and outfits. The instructions completely weds the overblown drama, the comedy, and the poignant character-study into a 105-minute movie.
Reception"Present Laughter" garnered favorable evaluations for its devoted adjustment of Noël Coward's play, the amusing dialogues, and for the performances, especially of Hawthorne. The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) granted Hawthrone with a Best Actor in a Comedy Series award for his performance in the movie. Although considered as a somewhat lesser-known work, those who have actually seen it appreciate it for its witiness and stimulating yet funny character study.
ConclusionIn summary, "Present Laughter" is a satirical research study of a male undergoing a mid-life crisis, recognizing the emptiness that accompanies popularity, and understanding the value of genuine relationships. It efficiently provides laughter along with a profound narrative, leaving the audience both amused and thoughtful.
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