Revisiting Entertaining Mr. Sloane: A Dive into Camp, Controversy, and Classic Orton
Entertaining Mr. Sloane (1970) isn’t just another British comedy—it’s a playful, scandalous romp that captures the audacious spirit of 1960s London. Directed by Douglas Hickox, this film adaptation of Joe Orton’s groundbreaking 1963 play blends humor with edgy themes, challenging the cultural mores of its time. With the release of a glittering new Blu-ray from Severin Films, let’s dig deeper into this campy classic.
Joe Orton: The Playwright Who Shook Things Up
Joe Orton wasn’t just a playwright; he was a provocateur. Known for intertwining farce with class and queer themes, his works stirred controversy and brought taboo subjects to mainstream audiences. Tragically, Orton’s life was cut short when he was murdered in 1967, a fact that adds a layer of poignancy to Entertaining Mr. Sloane, which hit the screens shortly thereafter. This film isn’t just a reflection of his genius; it’s also laced with the bittersweet shadow of his untimely demise.
The Film’s Intriguing Opening Scene
The film doesn’t pull any punches from the start. The opening shot features a London double-decker bus emblazoned with a cheeky ad from Pan Am, questioning whether anyone "could use a rest." Cue the dark twist: immediately after, we see a raven perched on a gravestone. It’s a delightful juxtaposition of cheeky humor and ominous foreshadowing—perfectly encapsulating the film’s amoral insouciance.
Characters and Quirky Dynamics
Peter McEnery stars as Mr. Sloane—a “bleached boy toy”—who’s plucked from the cemetery by the forward-thinking Kath (a wonderful Beryl Reid). Their tumultuous relationship feels fresh and wickedly funny, as Kath shamelessly flirts and employs him as a chauffeur. What’s more, the film’s setting—a cemetery—adds a surreal layer as it seamlessly intertwines themes of death and desire.
The Cultural Context
Orton’s audacious comedy wasn’t merely a spectacle; it was a reflection of a society on the cusp of change. Post-war Britain was grappling with shifting sexual norms and rising homosexual visibility, particularly after the partial decriminalization of homosexual acts in 1967. Entertaining Mr. Sloane boldly explores the fluidity of sexual identities, pushing the envelope in a time when such discussions were often hushed.
A Treasure Trove of Extras
Severin Films doesn’t skimp on the goodies in its new Blu-ray release. Beyond a pristine 2K scan, viewers are treated to an array of fascinating extras—including interviews with cast members and insights into Orton’s legacy. Scholar Dr. Emma Parker’s commentary is particularly illuminating, connecting the dots to other prominent figures like Harold Pinter and Edward Albee.
Final Thoughts
Though Hickox’s directorial reputation may not match that of contemporaries like Ken Russell or John Schlesinger, Entertaining Mr. Sloane endures as a camp masterpiece that deftly balances morality and debauchery. It invites both laughter and contemplation—a delightful reminder that the past can inform our present.
So, whether you’re a seasoned viewer or a curious newcomer, this new Blu-ray release serves up a vintage cocktail of dark humor and cultural commentary, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of queer cinema and British comedy. Dive in—the scandal awaits!
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