Keeping the British End Up: Four Decades of Saucy Cinema

by Simon Sheridan, Sue Longhurst (Foreword), Johnny Vegas (Afterword)

The British tradition of 'saucy postcard' humour is perhaps best exemplified by the long running Carry On movies. But there is a forgotten cinema of saucier 'X' certificate films. Joan Collins and Joanna Lumley were among those who appeared in such films. Most famously, Robin Askwith, Fiona Richmond and Mary Millington became seventies superstars in movies that put boobs on screen and bums on seats. 

Simon Sheridan traces the history of the British sex film from its coy beginnings in Nudist Paradise through to its boom years with the Confessions series, and its demise in the early eighties. Sheridan compiles the first definitive filmography of the genre, and coaxes facts from previously reclusive and reluctant interviewees.

The story that unfolds is often funny and sometimes tragic, but undeniably revealing. This new edition includes an expanded filmography and previously unpublished interview material and stills.

Genres: Film

304 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2002

Reviews

[Brandon · Rating 5 out of 5]

An encyclopedic book about the boom of British sex comedies that dominated the cinemas in the 1960's and 70's. This book has a something for everyone whether a novice or connoisseur of these saucy films. There is a brief history of these so-called 'Dirty movies' that bookend the book but the bulk of the book is a listing of the films in question. From Mary Millington to the 'Confessions' series it's all in here. There is also a listing of the stars and major players in the industry, most of them unknown to modern audiences. I was just a schoolboy when these movies were made but I - like so many other teenage lads - tried to sneak in for a peak. I was never successful but that didn't stop me from trying. This was an enjoyable book full of information about the films with some light criticism that captures a time and a place long forgotten.

[Jason Coffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Massively entertaining history of British sex comedies in the 60s and 70s, presented as reviews of films for each year. Tons of hilarious pictures and great stories about the films and the people who made them.

[Peter Shovlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The only definitive guide on saucy British cinema there is. Great insights, great photos, unbelievable attention to detail. In a nutshell, any actor worth his salt appeared in one of these mostly rubbish yet irresistible films. My overall faves? Confessions From A Holiday Camp & Come Play With Me