Another of George Formby's films for Columbia (and also available on a nice Sony DVD) is "He Snoops To Conquer" (1945). This time, George is paired with Robertson Hare (who does a great job) and a really fine support cast led by the lovely Elizabeth Allan.
Connoisseur's will spot Katie Johnson as George's "mother".
Undoubtedly the best of the Columbia movies, this one presents George in a number of guises. At the start, as you can see from the still above, George looks very neat indeed (aside from the false teeth – and even they look reasonably realistic). Of course, we soon discover that dapper George is only a humble office-worker for the local council. Admittedly, he's not too bright but his lack of acumen is due more to his kindness, his trusting nature and his eagerness to do a good job than his lack of mental acuity.
The Formby character is always determined, but in this movie he's super-endowed with a determination that will brook no rebuff at all.
Helping win the laughs is brainstorm inventor Robertson Hare who actually takes George's place as the film's prize idiot.
Columbia have spent more money than usual on this one with its large cast, numerous sets and crazy props. My only real complaint is that the slapstick chase occurs in the middle of the film instead of at the climax, so that the movie finishes up on a rounded but somewhat tame note: George gets the girl, the Council gets the sack, the town gets a makeover, and Hare collars the laughs. (A 9/10 Sony DVD).
Connoisseur's will spot Katie Johnson as George's "mother".
Undoubtedly the best of the Columbia movies, this one presents George in a number of guises. At the start, as you can see from the still above, George looks very neat indeed (aside from the false teeth – and even they look reasonably realistic). Of course, we soon discover that dapper George is only a humble office-worker for the local council. Admittedly, he's not too bright but his lack of acumen is due more to his kindness, his trusting nature and his eagerness to do a good job than his lack of mental acuity.
The Formby character is always determined, but in this movie he's super-endowed with a determination that will brook no rebuff at all.
Helping win the laughs is brainstorm inventor Robertson Hare who actually takes George's place as the film's prize idiot.
Columbia have spent more money than usual on this one with its large cast, numerous sets and crazy props. My only real complaint is that the slapstick chase occurs in the middle of the film instead of at the climax, so that the movie finishes up on a rounded but somewhat tame note: George gets the girl, the Council gets the sack, the town gets a makeover, and Hare collars the laughs. (A 9/10 Sony DVD).