User Reviews

VOTE FOR HUGGETT is one of the less well-known in the four-film Huggett series and it's easy to see why: it's not particularly funny. Politics tends to be a dry old game and it's apparent from this film's plot, a tired old fish-out-of-water styling in which Jack Warner decides to make waves to no particularly funny effect. Some of the sexist gags have to be heard to be believed, including Warner's infamous line to his wife: "I can't abide pretty or clever women, and you're neither". PASSPORT TO PIMLICO was handled better with a lot more finesse and a lot more laughs. Still, the cast remain game as ever, so it's not all bad.

Copyright 1949 by Gainsborough Pictures (1928) Limited. No theatrical release in the U.S.A. Released in the U.K. through General Film Distributors: 14 February 1949. Australian release through G-B- D/20th Century-Fox: 24 November 1949. 7,603 feet. 84 minutes. DVD available from ITV Studios Home Entertainment.

SYNOPSIS: Dad is induced to run for the local council when land developers endorse his scheme for a war memorial park and lido.

NOTES: Third of the four-picture Huggett series. The others: Holiday Camp, Here Come the Huggetts, The Huggetts Abroad.

VIEWER'S GUIDE: I can see no rhyme or reason for the British censor's "A" certificate. Maybe he thinks, like my grandfather, that politics is an unsuitable subject for children. "Never discuss religion or politics, Johnny!" he used to say. Not even apparently imaginary or non-political-party politics. Take my word for it, Vote for Huggett is suitable for all.

COMMENT: An entertaining farce, thanks to the genial acting of Warner and company and a great support cast, including such future stars as David Tomlinson (in a typical role which he plays with all his customary mannerisms and skill); Diana Dors (in not the sort of part with which her fans would identify, but in a good — or rather villainous — straight character bit similar to many such in her early career); and Anthony Newley (a very small part as a Pet fan).

Susan Shaw is as attractive as always; Pet gets to sing a song ("Under the Old Apple Tree", plus a jazzy reprise); Peter Hammond is remorselessly obnoxious; and it's good to see Amy Veness dispensing her usual venom as Grandma, whilst Charles Victor goes about his customary nefarious chores with such infectious enthusiasm we almost wish nephew Tomlinson would win.

A Capraesque touch is provided by three crazily introverted maiden sisters who control a key estate.

All told, it's by far the liveliest and best produced entry in the four-picture series.

P.S. I met Diana Dors only twice, but we had quite a lengthy conversation the first time. I complimented her on her movie career which was really quite unique. As a teenager, she started off playing character roles. Five or six years later, she turned herself into a sex-goddess. She was so successful in this role that she soon became draw-card number one in British cinemas, a position she held for many years before age crept up with her, and then she very successfully switched back to character parts.