Watch Stop the World, I Want to Get Off

Stop the World, I Want to Get Off is a 1966 British musical comedy-drama film based on the hit West End musical of the same name. Directed by Philip Saville, the film stars Tony Tanner, Millicent Martin, and Leila Croft. The story follows the life of Littlechap, a man who travels through every stage of life, from birth to death, and experiences love, loss, and success along the way.

The film opens with Littlechap, played by Tanner, being born to a working-class family in England. He grows up and falls in love with Evie, played by Martin. They get married, have children, and struggle to make ends meet. Littlechap becomes fascinated with success and wealth and leaves Evie and his children to pursue his dreams.

He rises through the ranks of the business world, becoming a celebrity and marrying the beautiful Ginnie, played by Croft. However, Littlechap begins to realize that the empty pleasures of fame and fortune are not what he truly wants out of life. He longs to return to his humble beginnings and reunite with his true love, Evie.

Throughout the film, Littlechap is accompanied by a chorus of dancers who symbolize the passing of time and the different stages of his life. The film also features a number of musical numbers, many of which became hits in their own right. These include "Once in a Lifetime," "Gonna Build a Mountain," and "Typically English."

Stop the World, I Want to Get Off is a visually stunning film that uses innovative techniques to convey Littlechap's journey through life. The film is shot in a series of surreal, dreamlike settings that reflect the emotional states of the characters. The sets and costumes are colorful and flamboyant, reflecting the theatrical origins of the story.

The film was a critical success upon its release, receiving praise for its imaginative visuals and catchy musical numbers. However, some critics felt that the film lacked the emotional depth of the stage musical, and that the characters were too broadly drawn.

Despite these criticisms, Stop the World, I Want to Get Off remains a beloved musical classic, known for its pioneering use of surrealism and its iconic score. It has been revived on stage numerous times since its original production in 1961, and the film adaptation continues to be a popular choice for lovers of musical theater.

Overall, Stop the World, I Want to Get Off is a delightful and visually inventive musical that explores the timeless themes of love, ambition, and the human desire for happiness. With its memorable songs and colorful imagery, it remains a beloved classic that will continue to entertain audiences for generations to come.

Stop the World, I Want to Get Off is a 1966 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.2.