A musical version of James Hilton’s classic novel, starring Peter O’Toole and Petula Clark.
A shy and dedicated teacher struggles to develop a rapport with his pupils. But one day he meets a beautiful singer and his life is transformed.
Director Herbert Ross became one of Hollywood’s most assured directors of light entertainment but he was very lucky indeed to get another chance after this nightmare of a debut. Rex Harrison and Richard Burton both had the sense to send Terence Rattigan’s script back from whence it came, and not even an Oscar nomination can hide the fact that this is one of Peter O’Toole’s least distinguished performances.
The fact that John Williams and Leslie Bricusse were also nominated for best score is even more preposterous as the songs in this musical adaptation are simply shocking.
Arthur “Chips” Chipping
Peter O’Toole Katherine Bridges
Petula Clark Headmaster
Michael Redgrave Lord Sutterwick
George Baker Ursula Mossbank
Sian Phillips Max Staefel
Michael Bryant William Baxter
Jack Hedley Headmaster’s wife
Alison Leggatt Bill Calbury
Clinton Greyn Mrs Paunceforth
Barbara Couper Johnny Longbridge
Michael Culver Miss Honeybun
Patricia Hayes
