This misjudged sequel to the Oscar-nominated Alfie (1966) finds pop singer Alan Price replacing Michael Caine as the cockney casanova, Alfie Elkins, with director Ken Hughes taking over from Lewis Gilbert.
This time around Alfie is a London-based long-distance lorry driver whose trips take him to the Continent.
The film traces his amorous adventures in France and later, back in Britain.
He has a bird in every city and is involved with the usual bevvy of beauties, none of whom makes any impact apart from Jill Townsend as Abby, the beautiful and sophisticated editor of a travel magazine. Abby turns Alfie down but their romance blossoms when they both meet in France and Alfie finds himself in love for the first time.
The description “soft porn” seems appropriate – more breasts are bared in the first 10 minutes of this film than were uncovered in the entirety of its famous predecessor, including a topless Joan Collins as a well-off wife who entertains Alfie while her husband is away on business.
Annie Ross is a blowsy neighbour who is always ready to help Alfie out with more than just a cup of sugar.
Price is totally out of his depth in this poorly-scripted film which lacks the verve and pathos of the original.
His actions onscreen are more mechanical than his lorry.
Alfie Elkins
Alan Price Abby Somers
Jill Townsend Fay
Joan Collins Claire
Annie Ross Norma
Sheila White Dora
Hannah Gordon Louise
Rula Lenska Bird
Vicki Michelle Bakey
Paul Copley
