Dirk Bogarde is a cold romantic in ' romantic ' roles, and he is in my opinion the major flaw in this sometimes very witty film. There seems to be little chemistry between him and the underrated Susan Stephen, and he delivers his lines professionally but without much feeling. Based on a play this is about a young couple getting married and having to cope with the relative poverty of the Post War years. Renting a room is almost out of their reach, and they are lucky enough to get a smallish room without what is discreetly called amenities. As the film progresses the room gets improbably larger but the point is made; the youth of the early Fifties had a hard time finding both jobs and accommodation. Viewed in 2022 it is quite relevant to many and could be enjoyed for the comedy turmoil they are in. This is basically the story, but it is the supporting actors who really make it work. Athene Seyler is fun as a too demanding neighbour, and so is Dennis Price as another resident. But it is Cecil Parker as Susan Stephen's father and the great Eileen Herlie who steal the film from the rest, and sadly Herlie was seen more on the stage than the screen. To be watched for its relevant fun, its often very astute dialogue and brilliant supporting actors to take our eyes off the dry and rather diffident Dirk Bogarde.
Review of Cocktails in the Kitchen
