An ambitious coffee salesman has a series of improbable and ironic adventures seemingly designed to challenge his naive idealism.
Acting
McDowell's chaotic innocence anchors the madness.
Direction
Anderson's tonal whiplash between musical and horror.
Writing
Sheridan's episodic structure: Candide by way of Monty Python.
Director
Lindsay Anderson
Malcolm McDowell
Michael Arnold Travis / Plantation Thief
Ralph Richardson
Sir James Burgess / Monty
Rachel Roberts
Gloria Rowe / Madame Paillard / Mrs. Richards
Arthur Lowe
Mr. Duff / Charlie Johnson / Dr. Munda
Helen Mirren
Patricia / Casting Assistant
Graham Crowden
Stewart / Prof. Millar / Meths Drinker
Peter Jeffrey
Factory Chairman / Prison Governor
Dandy Nichols
Tea Lady / Neighbour
Mona Washbourne
Neighbour / Usher / Sister Hallett
Philip Stone
Jenkins / Interrogator / Salvation Army Major
Alan Price
Alan Price
Warren Clarke
Master of Ceremonies (Nightspot) / Warner / Male Nurse
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The film originated from McDowell telling director Anderson stories about his actual coffee salesman days. The entire three-hour epic started as pub banter.
Released during Britain's 1973 economic crisis, its grotesque elite—cannibal businessmen, corrupt officials—landed with uncomfortable contemporary bite. The milk scene reportedly caused walkouts at Cannes.
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