Arthur Askey

Arthur Askey, the quintessential British comedy genius, made his film debut in 1937 and is regarded as one of the most inventive comedy performers ever to come out of Britain. Presented in this newly-repackaged box set, this range of comedy classics demonstrates how 'big-hearted Arthur' paved the way for many of the innovative comic performers we know and love today.

Band Waggon (Dir. Marcel Varnel, 1940): Arthur and his friend, Stinker, are invited to an audition at the BBC. The duo install themselves in a disused studio at Broadcasting house where they plan to transmit a pirate broadcast. With the public, the BBC and police on their tail, will they make it?

I Thank You (Dir. Marcel Varnel, 1941): The perils of trying to run a second-rate theatrical company are made worse when finacial aid is withdrawn. Not to be defeated the stars decide the show must go on... with hilarious consequences.

Back-Room Boy (Dir. Herbert Mason, 1942): After being jilted by his fiancée, Arthur Pilbeam wants a job where he won't encounter women. He is sent to a remote Scottish island but soon things are getting a little crowded as he is joined by a young girl, a model and the survivors of a torpedo attack. That's when they all start to disappear, one by one...

King Arthur Was A Gentleman (Dir. Marcel Varnel, 1942): Set during World War II, Arthur is posted to King Arthur country with his girlfriend, Gwennie and her friend Susan. He is given 'Excalibur' as a practical joke and belives the legendary sword is real, therefore believing himself to be invincible. But who will have the last laugh?

Miss London Ltd (Dir. Val Guest, 1943): Arthur's female escort business is in a mess due to the nature of his employees. Then, in walks Terry, she shakes up the business and sets about finding livley girls to employ while she and Arthur embark on a romance.

Bees In Paradise (Dir. Val Guest, 1944): Set on an Island this musical comedy takes, as it's premise, a colony in which women hold the power. When a group of four airmen arrive what ensues is a complicated web of falling in love and the comedy it provides when women are in charge!

First released: Monday 19th February 2007