I think that this is one of the few occasions from the period of remaking British television sitcoms for cinema, that the vibe of the original series was captured so beautifully, and even enhanced. This is one of my favourite movies of all time in actual fact, because the fundamental themes are about being nice to your friends, respecting their beliefs, sticking up for them, and consciously including and taking care of those who are different and that are less fortunate.
Like many of the comedies of the day, particularly those made by London Weekend Television, the humour is broad, and there is a good deal of very unsubtle social commentary. Class divisions, inner-city poverty, and race relations form an ongoing theme, but are dealt with comically and you never feel like you are being preached at. The writers, John Esmonde and Bob Larbey, demonstrate a far more enlightened and thoughtful perspective than many of their peers. They also don't hesitate to poke fun at the attempts of people of liberal sensibilities to readily accept allegations of racism, and to over- compensate with their empathy. A black student, Wesley, played by Brinsley Forde, is accidentally left behind when the coach, enroute to the school camp, departs without him after a roadside stop. He is picked up by Penny (Jill Kerman) and he mischievously convinces her that he's been the tragic victim of his white fascist teacher who is also his slumlord. When they catch up to the bus, the very benign - and scrupulously mindful of other cultures - Mr Hedges (John Alderton) attempts to thank Penny for taking care of their student, and she lets him have it; "Trevor Huddlestone was right about people like you!"
Leaving aside any deeper analysis, it's a nicely written film, with likeable actors and characters, and just enough comical conflict. (Did you say something, yer pasty-faced pillock?") The incidental music, and soundtrack song, Cilla Black's La-La-Lu, are pretty cool as well. I find this film always makes you feel better for having watched it.
