Charles Frend was yet another British cinema veteran who made his final film for the Childrens Film Fountain. This particular malarkey is rather bland but adds occasional flashes of asperity such as making the hero a bit of a brat and the suspicious thoughts of the local librarian heard on the soundtrack.
4 Reviews
Solidly entertaining
Leofwine_draca14 November 2018
Warning: Spoilers
THE SKY BIKE is another solidly entertaining Children's Film Foundation movie in which kids are a lot more creative, enthusiastic and athletic than any modern variant, more's the pity. This one was made by Charles Frend, formerly of THE LONG ARM and THE CRUEL SEA, now working at the tail-end of his career. The protagonist is a friendless kid called Tom Smith, whose lack of buddies becomes apparent when you see him calling his one pseudo-mate Porker, due to this poor lad carrying a few extra pounds! Smith hooks up with an eccentric inventor, played to the hilt by NIGHT OF THE DEMON's Liam Redmond who steals the picture. They work on a flying bicycle for an upcoming competition, but things are complicated by family shenanigans and a rival group with their own creation. Running at an hour in length, this is a bright and breezy affair with plenty of fun elements and comedy to see it through. Some of the flying effects are skilfully achieved, and there are seasoned professionals in support, including William Lucas and David Lodge.
On yer bike
malcolmgsw13 July 2021
Warning: Spoilers
A decent story with familiar trappings of the CFF favourite storyline,the kids beating unscrupulous crooks. Now if that nice Mr Redmond could have gotten that scary demon into the film,life would have been much simpler for the kids.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews