Les rois du sport

This hugely entertaining piece features a masterclass in comedy timing by Raimu, Fernandel, Berry and Carette which encourages one to discover more of Colombier's work although sadly his films are not easily accessible. Comedy does not always travel well but this is a glorious exception. Colombier never allows the pace to slacken and the dialogue is by one of French cinema's finest, Henri Jeanson, although these brilliant artistes make it sound as if they are making it up as they go along. A timeless, comic gem.

This film trudges on amiably enough, with little plot to guide it. It's enjoyable to see Fernandel and Raimu together in a comedy. The vignettes mostly feature Fernandel as sports jock - as clumsily out of place in this as Painless Potter (Bob Hope's role in The Paleface, as a killer dentist). Other great skits include an American's first encounter with pastis, Fernandel attemting to conduct a press conference in English with a knowledge of only a couple words, and a waiter's race (in full dress, with towels and trays) which opens the film. Very similar to the old Jackie Gleason and Sid Ceasar 50's TV shows.