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Present Laughter (1981)
Director: Alan Strachan
Cast: Donald Sinden, Dinah Sheridan, Gwen Watford, Elizabeth Counsell
Runtime147 min
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Often regarded as semi-autobiographical, Present Laughter follows a few days in the life of successful and self-obsessed actor Garry Essendine as he prepares to travel for a touring commitment. Amid a series of events bordering on farce, Garry must deal with interruptions including the numerous women who want to seduce him, placating his long-suffering secretary Monica Reed, avoiding his estranged wife Liz Essendine, being confronted by a crazed young playwright, and overcoming his fear of his own approacing fortieth birthday and impending mid-life crisis.
Critical Reception & Ratings
Present Laughter (1981) is often considered a semi-autobiographical comedy directed by Alan Strachan. The film follows the exploits of successful actor Garry Essendine as he deals with various personal and professional disruptions leading up to a touring commitment. While the critical reception has been generally positive, specific awards recognition details are not available.
Why you might like this:
Present Laughter from 1981, directed by Alan Strachan, is a hilarious semi-autobiographical comedy that showcases the brilliance of lead actor Donald Sinden as he navigates the chaos and distractions of his life as a successful stage actor. Fans of witty, character-driven comedies will delight in the sharp dialogue and farcical situations that unfold.
About
Present Laughter is a comic play written by Noël Coward in 1939 but not produced until 1942 because the Second World War began while it was in rehearsal, and the British theatres closed. The title is drawn from a song in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night that urges carpe diem. The play has been frequently revived in Britain, the US and beyond.
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