The 1977 British film Come Play with Me, directed by George Harrison Marks, is a fascinating artifact of its time, blending sexploitation comedy with a distinctly British humor. Its cultural and commercial impact has continued to pique curiosity decades after its release. Here’s a detailed dive into what makes this film a significant piece of cinema history.
Overview and Plot
Come Play with Me is often categorized as a sexploitation film, a genre blending risqué humor with softcore erotic elements. The story revolves around a group of young women, led by Mary Millington, who take over a remote health farm. Their antics intertwine with the escapades of two counterfeiters on the run from police and criminals. The film’s humor leans heavily on slapstick and innuendo, reminiscent of traditional British music hall comedy.
Despite its comedic tones, the film was initially marketed as a groundbreaking venture into the erotic genre, promising audiences a risqué cinematic experience that pushed boundaries for its time.
Production and Challenges
The film was produced with a modest budget of £120,000 and heavily featured Mary Millington, a popular model and actress. George Harrison Marks infused the movie with his love for vaudeville-style humor, evident in musical numbers and comedic set pieces. However, the film faced significant production challenges, including debates over the level of explicit content. While some hardcore scenes were shot, they were eventually omitted during the editing process, leaving the film primarily in the softcore category.
One of the film’s infamous controversies arose when actress Irene Handl, a respected figure in British cinema, expressed dismay upon learning about its adult content post-production.
Marketing and Reception
David Sullivan, a key figure in the adult entertainment industry, spearheaded the film’s aggressive marketing. Promotional campaigns painted Come Play with Me as the British equivalent of American erotic hits like Deep Throat, although the final product was far tamer. Sullivan also leveraged his magazine empire to promote the film, creating a multimedia buzz.
Upon release, Come Play with Me resonated strongly with audiences, achieving a record-breaking 201-week run at London’s Moulin Cinema, making it the longest-running British film in history. This success was bolstered by a mix of curiosity, its comedic appeal, and Millington’s star power.
Cultural Significance
The film is regarded as a milestone in British sex comedies of the 1970s, epitomizing the liberal attitudes of the era. Its blend of risqué humor and traditional comedy created a niche that appealed to both adult audiences and fans of classic British slapstick.
Millington’s involvement remains a focal point in discussions about the film. Her tragic death in 1979 cast a shadow over the film’s legacy, adding a layer of poignancy to her status as a 1970s icon.
Modern Relevance
In recent years, Come Play with Me has gained renewed attention through retrospectives and re-releases, including Blu-ray box sets celebrating Mary Millington’s work. These reissues often include commentary on the film’s production and its place in British cinematic history.
The film also holds a nostalgic appeal for enthusiasts of vintage cinema, offering a glimpse into an era when boundaries were being tested in both humor and content. It continues to inspire discussions about the evolution of British comedy and erotica in film.
Key Cast and Crew
Director: George Harrison Marks
Producer: David Sullivan
Stars: Mary Millington, Irene Handl, Alfie Bass, and Tommy Godfrey
Legacy
While Come Play with Me may not be universally celebrated for its artistic merit, it stands as a cultural artifact representing a unique moment in British film history. Its blend of bawdy humor, modest eroticism, and iconic performances makes it a memorable entry in the genre of 1970s sexploitation comedies.
FAQs
What is the plot of “Come Play with Me” (1977)?
“Come Play with Me” is a 1977 British softcore pornographic film that has gained notoriety for its unique blend of comedy and explicit content. The film revolves around Cornelius Clapworthy and Maurice Kelly, two elderly forgers on the run from their gangster boss. Seeking refuge, they disguise themselves as musicians and hide out at Bovington Manor, a quirky health resort run by the eccentric Lady Bovington.
The manor, with its unconventional clientele and relaxed atmosphere, provides the perfect backdrop for a series of comedic misadventures. As the forgers navigate the peculiar world of the health resort, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including the alluring young women who reside there. The film blends elements of comedy, romance, and explicit content, creating a unique viewing experience that has captivated audiences and critics alike.
Why did “Come Play with Me” become so popular?
“Come Play with Me” achieved remarkable popularity due to several factors. Firstly, its unique blend of comedy, romance, and explicit content appealed to a wide range of audiences. The film’s humor, derived from the characters’ eccentricities and the absurd situations they find themselves in, resonated with viewers. Additionally, the film’s frank and unabashed approach to sexuality was groundbreaking for its time, attracting a curious and eager audience.
Furthermore, the film’s long-running theatrical release contributed to its popularity. It screened continuously at the Moulin Cinema in London for an unprecedented 201 weeks, setting a record for the longest-running screening in British cinema history. This extended run allowed the film to reach a wider audience and solidify its cult status.
What is the significance of “Come Play with Me” in the history of British cinema?
“Come Play with Me” holds a significant place in the history of British cinema, particularly in the realm of adult films. It was one of the most commercially successful British sex comedies of the 1970s, breaking box office records and captivating audiences. The film’s enduring popularity and cultural impact have solidified its status as a cult classic.
Moreover, “Come Play with Me” showcased the talents of several well-known British character actors who were not typically associated with adult films. Their performances added depth and humor to the film, elevating it beyond a mere sex comedy. The film’s success also paved the way for other British sex comedies, which followed a similar formula of blending humor, romance, and explicit content.
What are some of the controversies surrounding “Come Play with Me”?
Despite its popularity, “Come Play with Me” has also been the subject of controversy. Some critics have argued that the film’s explicit content and sexual themes are gratuitous and exploitative. Others have praised the film for its innovative approach to sexuality and its willingness to challenge societal norms.
Additionally, the film’s long-running theatrical release sparked debate about censorship and the regulation of adult content. The film’s ability to screen continuously for over three years raised questions about the appropriateness of such content for public viewing.
To read more, Click here
