The innocent little old lady ("I'm so sorry to be a bother, gentlemen") played by KATIE JOHNSON (who died after doing one more film), is the real factor that gives the story a heart. After all, it's the brisk tale of a gang of criminals with a clever heist plan that goes awry thanks to the meddling of Miss Johnson. Without her highly amusing central role as the woman who unwittingly gives the gang shelter, it would be no more than a broad comedy.
That's not to say that ALEC GUINNESS, HERBERT LOM, PETER SELLERS and CECIL PARKER aren't superb as the gang members, but Johnson is the story's most necessary ingredient. Her dotty ways are endearing long before the plotters show up at her residence, pretending to be musicians.
The misadventures that occur the moment they show up at her doorstep keep the story flowing along at a rapid pace--beginning with the escape of one of her parrots that leads to some inventive gags. But that's only the beginning. All the other mishaps lead to a rather surprising ending.
Definitely a comedy to check out if you want a real good time! Expert script, costumes, performances and some catchy background music, all done with style and wit in the best British manner.
10 out of 11 found this helpful