The Smallest Show on Earth (1957)

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Critic Reviews: 2
Fresh: 1 | Rotten: 1

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Release Date: Jan 1, 1957 Wide

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Average Rating: 3.2/5
User Ratings: 933

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Movie Info

The Smallest Show on Earth is a gentle, frequently uproarious takeoff of Britain's neighborhood-cinema industry. Real-life husband and wife Bill Travers and Virginia McKenna star as Matt and Jean Spencer, a middle-class couple who inherit a decrepit movie house in a tiny railroad whistle stop. They also inherit the theater's ancient, doddering employees: bibulous ticket-taker Percy Quill (Peter Sellers), former silent-movie accompanist Mrs. Fazackalee (Margaret Rutherford) and doorman/janitor

Unrated, 1 hr. 20 min.

Drama, Classics, Comedy

Directed By: Basil Dearden

In Theaters: Jan 1, 1957 Wide

On DVD: Jan 21, 2003

Cast

Bill Travers
Matt Spenser
Virginia McKenna
Jean Spenser
Leslie Phillips
Robin Carter
Peter Sellers
Percy Quill
Margaret Rutherford
Mrs. Fazackalee
Bernard Miles
Old Tom
Francis De Wolff
Hardcastle
June Cunningham
Marlene Hogg
Sidney James
Mr. Hogg
Stringer Davis
Emmett
Sam Kydd
Michael Corcoran
Taxi Driver
George Cormack
Bell
George Cross
Commissioner

Critic Reviews for The Smallest Show on Earth

All Critics (7) | Top Critics (3) | Fresh (1) | Rotten (2) | DVD (9)

It's a madcap charming film, but don't expect anything extra here.

August 3, 2002 Full Review Source: Eye for Film

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Amber Wilkinson

Eye for Film

Very much an ensemble piece, it relies heavily on sight gags and cinema business.

August 3, 2002 Full Review Source: Eye for Film

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Amber Wilkinson

Eye for Film

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Audience Reviews for The Smallest Show on Earth

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Delightful British comedy of a young couple inheriting a run down movie theatre run by some eccentric characters. Superb cast, very entertaining and well written.

July 27, 2008