A Weekend with Lulu

Although Hammer films is closely associated with the horror genre, the studio did produce other features, such as the crime drama Hell is a city and the wonderful comedy A Weekend with Lulu. The film stars Leslie Philips as a young man who wants to take his girlfriend (Shirley Eaton) to the seashore in a borrowed caravan. His friend Fred (Bob Monkhouse)is going to take them there, but in true comic fashion things don't go as planned and the group ends up stranded in France. Getting back to England is going to be difficult with no money and no petrol and these plot complications lead to one mishap after another. A fine comic cast, brisk pacing and a sweet natured approach to comedy that the British did so well in the 1950s and 60s make A Weekend with Lulu a very pleasant way to spend 90 minutes.

It really is hard to imagine the mindset of audiences back in 1961 if this is the sort of sexist pap that was being dished up in the name of humour.

I was squirming at the utter sexploitation of Shirley Eaton and the double entendre were more singular than plural.

Some of the dodgy pronunciation was geared at an adult audience. It may not have been profanity in name but it was there by insinuation.

It was also at least 30 minutes too long to sustain the farce.

The only saving grace was Irene Handle.

Cameos from Kenneth Connor and Syd James couldn't save it.

Basically a story about Tim (Leslie Phillips), who wants to spend quality time with his girl Dierdre (the very pretty Shirley Eaton). He rents "Lulu", which is a trailer hitched to an ice cream truck driven by Fred (Bob Monkhouse). Tim's plans are hampered when Dierdre's mom Florence (Irene Handl) comes along for the ride, her being stuffy and wary of Tim. They head to the seashore but take a wrong turn and end up on a freight train, where they are soon in France. What follows is a screwball comedy about how they are looking to get home. They end up having to dodge the police, stealing to get petrol and being in the middle of situations (including interrupting the Tour de France!). This is a fun, non-offensive comedy with good acting from these comedy legends, especially Irene Handl. While not essential, it puts a smile on your face and keeps your interest. If you like vintage British comedy, this will be definitely worth your time.

How btracyusa thought this one of the funniest films ever and where Monty Python might have got some of their ideas from is way beyond me as I found it a laboured bore.

Bit fan of Bob Monkhouse, but comedy actor he ain't I'm sorry to say and the only saving grace in this was Irene Handl.

Poor.

One of the many British comedy's from the 60s. With many familiar faces and a few from the Carry on team. Accidently ending up in france it follows their exploits as they try to make their way home. A few funny moments ensue, but not as good as the carry on films.