didi-5
Without its co-creator and original leading man, Anthony Newley, this film is at a disadvantage right from the start. It's a record of a stage musical, largely filmed in the theatre, with black and white inserts taped at a studio. It only really works because it is fresh and unique, and because of three wonderful songs in particular: 'Gonna Build a Mountain', 'Once in a Lifetime', and 'What Kind of Fool Am I'.The problem really is that Tony Tanner, although good, is no Newley, and mimicking vocal mannerisms isn't really enough to hide the fact he's a poor substitute. Having said that, the film doesn't lack charm and anything with Millicent Martin has to get the thumbs-up. Perhaps a product of its time, and now rather dated, but watched in the right frame in mind it still stands up, perhaps better than a stage revival would these days.
joe d
My wife and I put on our old VHS copy the other night (having not seen it for many years) and once more became totally absorbed in the production and Tony Tanner's performance. Some have called it outdated but it's pure theater with a theater-type experience as best as could be reproduced on screen. "World's" brilliance is that it's simple story combined with a magnificent score can hold audience captivated, no small achievement considering it is done in mime and soliloquy and performed within the confines of a small circular one-ring circus-type stage with no elaborate settings.Just magnificent, not matter what generation.
Paul Goodhead
You simply cannot put a couple of cameras in an orchestra pit and film "Stop the World", yet this is exactly what they have done. Starring Newley's stand-in and later replacement when he took the show to Broadway. Tanner tries hard but Tony Newley he ain't! Millie Martin does a little better as Evie but the whole thing makes you yearn for the brilliance that was Anthony Newley. Paul Goodhead - President of the Anthony Newley Appreciation Society Worldwide. (Officially recognised by the family/estate of Anthony Newley).