Several reviewers think this movie has a weak ending. I don't. The message it seems to be aiming to convey is that applying Christian precepts to ordinary everyday life in a consumer-oriented capitalist society can only lead to martyrdom. In this case the only reason that the Reverend Smallwood isn't crucified is because he's sent heavenwards, or chooses to depart, by more modern means. I wasn't sure if he was expected to return. I'll have to watch it again.
It was slightly reminiscent of Viridiana, which came out two years earlier, and was judged blasphemous by the Vatican. Franco tried to ban it, which some sections of society might have felt ought to be the fate of Heavens Above. It was also slightly reminiscent of the earlier films of H.G.Wells' depictions of the incompatibility of virtuous ideals and powers in a corruptible world. All fairly thought-provoking.
Peter Sellers was in my opinion remarkably effective in the role of Smallwood. Wikipedia informs me that Sellers thought of himself as Jewish, because he had a Jewish mother, but his father was a Protestant and he was educated at a Roman Catholic school. Perhaps this mixture influenced his performance. Rather a unique role for him. Sellers' films in Britain were far better and more interesting than his work in America. He had better directors in Britain, and the director makes the film.
It was slightly reminiscent of Viridiana, which came out two years earlier, and was judged blasphemous by the Vatican. Franco tried to ban it, which some sections of society might have felt ought to be the fate of Heavens Above. It was also slightly reminiscent of the earlier films of H.G.Wells' depictions of the incompatibility of virtuous ideals and powers in a corruptible world. All fairly thought-provoking.
Peter Sellers was in my opinion remarkably effective in the role of Smallwood. Wikipedia informs me that Sellers thought of himself as Jewish, because he had a Jewish mother, but his father was a Protestant and he was educated at a Roman Catholic school. Perhaps this mixture influenced his performance. Rather a unique role for him. Sellers' films in Britain were far better and more interesting than his work in America. He had better directors in Britain, and the director makes the film.