The Smallest Show on Earth 1957

The Funniest Show on Earth!

6.6 / 10   29 vote(s)
Comedy

Jean and Bill are a married couple trying to scrape a living. Out of the blue they receive a telegram informing them Bill's long-lost uncle has died and left them his business—a cinema in the town of Sloughborough. Unfortunately they can't sell it for the fortune they hoped as they discover it is falling down and almost worthless.

Release Date 1957-04-09
Runtime 1h 23m
Director Basil Dearden
Producer
Writers William Rose, John Eldridge

What if you were informed that you've just inherited your late uncle's "fortune" and then you found out that this "fortune" was, in reality, just an old, dilapidated, little movie theater? I'm assuming you'd be none too happy. Well, neither were Matt and Jean Spenser in this enjoyable little comedic romp. But they learn to make the most of the cinema, as well as the delightful assortment of oddball characters that go with it. Peter Sellers has an interesting turn here as the wacky, behind-the-scenes projectionist, and the whole thing is indeed very amusing. There's an abundance of unique and entertaining performances in this British-made little oddity that's a sort of tongue-in-cheek tribute to silent films.

Would I recommend? Yes. A minor comedy that makes for pleasant viewing.

barrymost