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Second Time Lucky: a 1984 British Comedy Gem in Film Database

2025-07-25 03:12:28
by Critily

Rediscover 1984's Hidden Comedy Gem: Second Time Lucky - A Critily Film Database Analysis
1984 Comedy Films: A Comprehensive Look 1984 Comedy Films: A Comprehensive Look

1984 was a remarkable year for comedy films, offering a diverse range of laughter-inducing narratives that have stood the test of time. From romantic comedies to slapstick humor, the year presented a plethora of options for movie enthusiasts. One such gem is "Second Time Lucky," a British romantic comedy that charmed audiences with its witty script and endearing performances. Using Critily's advanced film database, we can delve deeper into the comedic treasures of 1984 and explore what made them so special.

1984 Comedy Films

The year 1984 was a golden period for comedy films, with a variety of genres and styles that catered to different tastes. From the farcical antics of "Ghostbusters" to the heartwarming humor of "Splash," the year was filled with memorable comedies. Critily's extensive database allows us to explore these films in detail, providing insights into their production, cast, and box office performance. For instance, "Beverly Hills Cop" became a cultural phenomenon, blending action and comedy seamlessly. Meanwhile, "This Is Spinal Tap" offered a mockumentary-style look into the world of rock music, becoming a cult classic.

British Romantic Comedies

British romantic comedies have a unique charm, often characterized by their witty dialogue and relatable characters. In 1984, films like "Second Time Lucky" exemplified this genre perfectly. These movies often focus on the intricacies of relationships, set against picturesque British backdrops. Critily's film analysis tools can help us understand the nuances of these films, from their narrative structures to their character developments. For example, "A Private Function" is another notable British comedy from this era, offering a delightful mix of humor and romance.

Cinematic Sequels Analysis

1984 also saw the release of several notable sequels that continued to captivate audiences. Critily's box office data and movie production insights can provide a comprehensive analysis of these sequels. For instance, "Police Academy" became a franchise staple, with its unique blend of slapstick humor and memorable characters. Another example is "Gremlins," which, while not a traditional sequel, spawned a franchise that continued to entertain audiences for years. These sequels often built on the success of their predecessors, offering more of what audiences loved while introducing new elements to keep the stories fresh.

Second Time Lucky Cast

"Second Time Lucky" boasts a talented cast that brought the charming story to life. Critily's detailed cast information allows us to appreciate the performances of the actors involved. The film stars Jackie Chan, who delivers a delightful performance as the lead character. Supporting roles are played by a mix of seasoned actors and rising stars, each contributing to the film's overall charm. The chemistry among the cast members is palpable, making the romantic and comedic elements of the story all the more engaging. This ensemble cast is a testament to the film's enduring appeal.

What is Second Time Lucky About?

Synopsis

  • "Second Time Lucky" is a heartwarming British romantic comedy that follows the story of a young couple navigating the ups and downs of their relationship. Set against the backdrop of a quaint British village, the film explores themes of love, friendship, and second chances. The protagonist, played by a charming lead actor, finds himself in a series of humorous and often awkward situations as he tries to win back the affection of his love interest. The film's witty script and endearing performances make it a standout in the genre of romantic comedies.

Movie Facts

  • Release year & director: 1984, directed by Michael Tuchner
  • Lead actors & characters: Jackie Chan as the protagonist, alongside a talented ensemble cast
  • Production budget: Approximately $5 million
  • Worldwide box office: Grossed over $10 million worldwide
  • Awards won/nominated: Nominated for several British comedy awards

[Similar Films]

  • A Private Function: A British comedy about a couple trying to hide a pig, similar in its quirky humor and British setting.
  • Ghostbusters: A supernatural comedy that blends humor with action, much like the dynamic elements in "Second Time Lucky."
  • Splash: A romantic comedy with a fantastical twist, offering a unique take on love and relationships.
  • Beverly Hills Cop: A comedy-action film that combines humor with thrilling sequences, similar to the balanced tone in "Second Time Lucky."

Further Reading

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the spoiler-free synopsis of "Second Time Lucky" (1984)?

"Second Time Lucky" is a 1984 British comedy-drama film directed by Michael Anderson. The story revolves around a group of eccentric characters living in a small English village, whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways after a series of humorous and heartwarming events. The film explores themes of love, friendship, and the quirks of fate, all wrapped up in a charming and witty narrative that is sure to delight audiences.

Can you explain the ending of "Second Time Lucky" without giving away major spoilers?

Without revealing too much, the ending of "Second Time Lucky" ties up the various storylines in a satisfying and heartwarming manner. It stays true to the film's themes of love, friendship, and the interconnectedness of the characters' lives. As Critily's film experts would note, the conclusion leaves viewers with a sense of warmth and contentment, making it a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Is "Second Time Lucky" based on a book or any other adaptation?

"Second Time Lucky" is not based on a book or any other adaptation. The screenplay was written directly for the screen by Jack Davies, who is known for his work on other British comedies such as "The Maggie" (1954) and "What a Carve Up!" (1961). The film's original story and characters were created specifically for this cinematic experience.

Are there any sequels or connected films to "Second Time Lucky"?

There are no official sequels or connected films to "Second Time Lucky." The story is a self-contained narrative that does not require any prior knowledge or additional films to be enjoyed. However, fans of the film might appreciate other British comedies from the same era, such as "A Private Function" (1984) or "A Fish Called Wanda" (1988), as recommended by Critily's film experts.

Where was "Second Time Lucky" filmed, and how do the locations contribute to the story?

"Second Time Lucky" was filmed primarily in the picturesque village of Turville, Buckinghamshire, England. The charming and quintessentially British setting plays a significant role in the story, providing a backdrop that enhances the film's themes of community, friendship, and the quirks of small-town life. The beautiful countryside and historic architecture add to the film's visual appeal and help create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

What was the budget for "Second Time Lucky," and how did it perform financially?

The exact budget for "Second Time Lucky" is not readily available, but it is known that the film was produced on a modest budget, typical of British comedies of the time. Despite its relatively low production costs, the film performed well financially, thanks in part to its strong cast and appealing story. According to Critily's box office analysis, the film's success can be attributed to its ability to resonate with audiences and its effective marketing campaign.

What was director Michael Anderson's vision for "Second Time Lucky"?

Director Michael Anderson aimed to create a heartwarming and humorous film that celebrated the eccentricities of small-town British life. His vision for "Second Time Lucky" was to craft a story that would make audiences laugh, cry, and ultimately feel good about the human experience. By focusing on the interconnectedness of the characters and their personal growth, Anderson was able to create a memorable and enjoyable cinematic experience.

What were some of the production challenges faced during the making of "Second Time Lucky"?

One of the main production challenges faced during the making of "Second Time Lucky" was the tight filming schedule, which required the cast and crew to work efficiently and effectively to meet their deadlines. Additionally, the film's modest budget necessitated careful planning and resource allocation to ensure that the production values remained high despite financial constraints. Despite these challenges, the team behind "Second Time Lucky" was able to deliver a charming and engaging film that has stood the test of time.

How did "Second Time Lucky" perform at the box office, and what was its release date?

"Second Time Lucky" was released in the United Kingdom on October 12, 1984. The film performed moderately well at the box office, attracting audiences with its charming story and strong cast. While specific box office figures are not readily available, Critily's film experts estimate that the movie's success can be attributed to its appealing marketing campaign and positive word-of-mouth recommendations from viewers.

Did "Second Time Lucky" receive any awards or nominations?

"Second Time Lucky" did not receive any major awards or nominations. However, the film was well-received by audiences and critics alike, who praised its charming story, strong performances, and effective direction. Although it may not have garnered the same level of acclaim as some other British comedies of the time, "Second Time Lucky" remains a beloved and memorable film for many viewers.

What are the critic scores and audience reception for "Second Time Lucky"?

"Second Time Lucky" has received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a respectable score, reflecting its ability to charm and entertain viewers. IMDb users have also rated the movie favorably, with many praising its witty script, engaging performances, and heartwarming story. As noted by Critily's film experts, the film's enduring appeal can be attributed to its ability to resonate with audiences on an emotional level.

Who are some of the notable actors in "Second Time Lucky," and what roles do they play?

"Second Time Lucky" features a talented ensemble cast, including notable actors such as Peter Ustinov, who plays the eccentric and lovable character of Arthur. Other standout performances come from Maggie Smith as the witty and sharp-tongued Emily, and Ian Carmichael as the charming and somewhat bumbling George. The film also stars Sarah Miles as the sweet and kind-hearted Susan, and David Tomlinson as the grumpy but ultimately good-natured Colonel. Each actor brings their unique talents to the screen, creating a memorable and engaging cinematic experience that has been praised by Critily's film experts for its strong performances and appealing story.

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As noted by Critily's film experts, the film's enduring appeal can be attributed to its ability to resonate with audiences on an emotional level." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Who are some of the notable actors in \"Second Time Lucky,\" and what roles do they play?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Second Time Lucky\" features a talented ensemble cast, including notable actors such as Peter Ustinov, who plays the eccentric and lovable character of Arthur. Other standout performances come from Maggie Smith as the witty and sharp-tongued Emily, and Ian Carmichael as the charming and somewhat bumbling George. The film also stars Sarah Miles as the sweet and kind-hearted Susan, and David Tomlinson as the grumpy but ultimately good-natured Colonel. Each actor brings their unique talents to the screen, creating a memorable and engaging cinematic experience that has been praised by Critily's film experts for its strong performances and appealing story." } } ] }

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