Smashing Time (1967)

Smashing Time Poster

Two young women arrive in London to make it big in show business, and become corrupted by money and fame in the process.

Overview of "Smashing Time"
"Smashing Time" is a satirical funny film from 1967, directed by Desmond Davis and composed by George Melly. The motion picture features 2 stars of the '60s, Rita Tushingham and Lynn Redgrave, as the main characters. They play the functions of 2 young, naive women from the North of England who come to London with hopes of finding popularity and fortune. The film is a dynamic portrayal of the swinging '60s in London, showcasing the age's fashion, popular culture, and the youth-oriented phenomena of the time.

Plot and Characters of "Smashing Time"
Tushingham depicts Brenda and Redgrave portrays Yvonne, and the story follows their misadventures in London. At the start, both ladies are clearly out of location in the capital's mod scene however are determined to make it big. After a series of comedic incidents-- such as losing their money, getting into slapstick brawls, and operating in menial tasks-- they chance upon opportunities that turn their luck around.

Yvonne, the more bold and positive of the duo, accidentally ends up being a successful design and a singing star, while Brenda, the more thoughtful and sensitive, eventually finds her niche as a professional photographer. As they browse the frantic fashion and pop worlds, their friendship is tested. In the procedure of their rags-to-riches-to-rags story, they encounter a variety of colorful characters, including a pompous film director, an over-the-top fashion designer, and different other caricatures of the '60s London scene.

Social Commentary and Style
"Smashing Time" is kept in mind for its campy design and its pointed social commentary. The film lampoons the excesses and superficialities of the period's pop culture and how it exploits the ambitions of girls like Brenda and Yvonne. The filmmakers employ broad farce and slapstick comedy to both celebrate and mock the Swinging Sixties.

One memorable series has the ladies taking part in a devastating romp through an expensive shop-- a literal smashing time-- that critiques consumerism and the disposability of fashion trends. In true satirical style, the movie highlights the fleeting nature of fame and success, as the characters rapidly rise to stardom only to descend simply as rapidly when they fall out of style.

Visuals and Music
The film is visually engaging, with dynamic colors, bold outfits, and a general visual that catches the essence of the '60s. The production design is naturally stylish, and it showcases the distinct looks that made London a style capital during the years.

The soundtrack likewise shows the duration, including memorable tunes and musical numbers carried out by Redgrave's character. The tune "I'm So Young" is a notable number, representing the vibrant optimism and the desire for recognition that drives the story.

Vital Reception and Legacy
Though "Smashing Time" received combined reviews from critics, it has garnered a cult following over the years for its whimsical take on the 1960s and its comedic storytelling. The performances by Tushingham and Redgrave have been praised for their appeal and energy, recording the zeitgeist of the age with a sense of paradox and fun.

In sum, "Smashing Time" not only entertains with its slapstick humor however also acts as a time pill for a vibrant and prominent duration in British cultural history. The film's overstated portrayal of '60s London remains an amusing reflection on the dreams and disillusionments of a generation caught up in the whirlwind of popular culture.

Top Cast

  • Rita Tushingham (small)
    Rita Tushingham
    Brenda
  • Lynn Redgrave (small)
    Lynn Redgrave
    Yvonne
  • Michael York (small)
    Michael York
    Tom Wabe
  • Anna Quayle (small)
    Anna Quayle
    Charlotte Brillig
  • Irene Handl (small)
    Irene Handl
    Mrs Gimble
  • Ian Carmichael (small)
    Ian Carmichael
    Bobby Mome-Rath
  • Jeremy Lloyd (small)
    Jeremy Lloyd
    Jeremy Tove
  • Toni Palmer (small)
    Toni Palmer
    Toni
  • George A. Cooper (small)
    George A. Cooper
    Irishman
  • Peter Jones (small)
    Peter Jones
    Dominic
  • Arthur Mullard (small)
    Arthur Mullard
    Cafe Boss