The Maggie (aka High & Dry)
Dir: Alexander Mackendrick
1954
****
The Maggie or 'High and Dry' as it's also known as, is one of the later and lesser known Ealing Comedies. It's a simple premise but full of as much charm as you can get in a comedy. The Maggie's rag-tag crew are what makes the film, no less so than the Skipper played perfectly by Alex Mackenzie. Director Alexander Mackendrick is remembered for many of his other, more successful films such as The Man in the White Suit, The Ladykillers and Sweet Smell of Success but The Maggie is his greatest achievement when it comes to timing, pace and editing in my opinion. Nothing is rushed and everything is subtle, the action happens five seconds after you expect, adding to the overall charm and comedy of the story. An unappreciated gem.