Review of Topsy-Turvy (1999) by Dawdlingpoet — 13 Jan 2022

This is a costume drama film depicting a curious true story. It features plenty of witty dialogue and some comedy - gentle comedy, I'd say. It also features plenty of pomp and fanfare. One quote I liked was 'the more I see of men, the more I like dogs!'.

There's an element of operatic diva-ishness present, about both Mr. Gilbert and Mr. Sullivan.

The fact Japense people were accused of not being (or not appearing in posture) Japanese was clearly laughable! It's (thankfully) tactfully pointed out that they are in fact Japanese people, to which Gilbert replies "well, yes, of course, that's why their here!"(!).

There's a certain quaintness about this film I enjoyed. It shows up English stereotypes and the upper classes of its time, I suppose. Timothy Spall is quite funny in his role, as Richard Temple and also present is Jim Broadbent and Simon Callow, among others (Lesley Manville etc.).

The musical numbers and costumes are fun and I liked that there's more information provided by text just before the credits.

Overall, I'd definitely recommend this film, yes.