Watch Up the Front

Up the Front is a 1972 British comedy film directed by Bob Kellett and starring Frankie Howerd, Bill Fraser, and William Mervyn. It is set during World War I and follows the misadventures of Lurk (Howerd), a cowardly tailor who is conscripted into the army. The film opens with Lurk living a comfortable life as a tailor, but his world is turned upside down when he is called up to serve in the army. Lurk is desperate to avoid going to war and goes to great lengths to get out of it, including faking a leg injury and attempting to bribe the local doctor. However, his attempts are unsuccessful and he soon finds himself in the trenches on the Western Front.

Lurk quickly realizes that life in the army is not for him and constantly looks for ways to avoid danger. His cowardice puts him at odds with Sergeant Major McGregor (Fraser), who is determined to turn him into a brave soldier. McGregor's attempts usually end in disaster, such as when he forces Lurk to carry a live grenade and accidentally sets it off.

Despite his best efforts to avoid the war, Lurk finds himself in a position to help his country when he discovers a German plot to blow up the British forces. With the help of his fellow soldiers and a captured German officer, Lurk comes up with a plan to foil the plot and save the day.

The film features plenty of comedic moments, including Howerd's trademark innuendos and double entendres. There are also several slapstick scenes, such as when Lurk accidentally sets fire to his own trench. The humor is often broad and silly, but it never feels forced or out of place.

Howerd is the standout performer in the film, bringing his unique brand of comedy to the role of Lurk. He manages to make the character endearing despite his cowardice, and the audience can't help but root for him even when he's at his most ridiculous. Fraser is also excellent as the gruff but well-meaning McGregor, and the chemistry between the two actors is a highlight of the film.

The film's World War I setting is well-realized, with convincing sets and costumes that transport the audience back to the era. The battle scenes are well-staged and there is a sense of danger and tension that permeates throughout the film. However, the focus is always on the comedy and the film never feels too heavy or morose.

Overall, Up the Front is a fun and enjoyable comedy that will appeal to fans of Frankie Howerd's unique style of humor. The film's blend of slapstick, innuendo, and silly gags may not be to everyone's taste, but for those who appreciate this type of comedy, it's a must-see. It's not a particularly deep or meaningful film, but it doesn't need to be. Up the Front is simply an entertaining way to spend an hour and a half.

Up the Front is a 1972 comedy. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.5.