1940 British film
Saloon Bar is a 1940 British comedy thriller film directed by Walter Forde and starring Gordon Harker, Elizabeth Allan and Mervyn Johns.[1] It was made by Ealing Studios and its style has led to comparisons with the later Ealing Comedies, unlike other wartime Ealing films which are different in tone.[2] It is based on the 1939 play of the same name by Frank Harvey in which Harker had also starred.[3] An amateur detective tries to clear an innocent man of a crime before the date of his execution.
Plot
The action takes place in London over one evening in the saloon bar of the Cap & Bells pub, just before Christmas. The regulars discuss the forthcoming execution for robbery and murder of the boyfriend of one of the barmaids. A pound note from the robbery is found in the till. Convinced of the condemned man's innocence, and led by bookie Joe Harris, they trace how the note came to be there and unmask the true killer.
Production
The film's sets were designed by the art director Wilfred Shingleton.
Critical reception
Kine Weekly said "Gordon Harker is the chief spokesman and has never been in better form; neither has the well-chosen supporting cast. The direction, too, reveals no little resource. What action there is, is not only well timed, but contributes to an exciting climax. As for the "pub" atmosphere, it will warm the heart of every man and, maybe, every woman. In all, a capital and refreshingly English novelty thriller."[4]
In British Sound Films: The Studio Years 1928–1959 David Quinlan rated the film as "good", writing: "Verbose but winning mixure of mystery and comedy, with nice pub atmosphere."[5]
The Radio Times Guide to Films gave the film 3/5 stars, writing: "Gordon Harker was a familiar face in British thrillers during the 1930s, his mournful expression and throaty cockney accent enabled him to play characters on either side of the law. In this engaging Ealing whodunnit, he has a fine old time as a bookie playing detective in his local. Director Walter Forde makes effective use of the claustrophobic set to build tension, and he is well served by an efficient cast of suspects."[6]
Leslie Halliwell said: "Amusing, well-made little suspenser from a West End success."[7]
