Those Daring Young Men In Their Jaunty Jalopies

Those Daring Young Men In Their Jaunty Jalopies is a 1969 comedy film directed by Ken Annakin. The film stars an ensemble cast including Bourvil, Lando Buzzanca, and Walter Chiari. The movie has a runtime of 122 minutes and was produced by United Artists.

Set in the early 1900s, the plot follows a group of drivers as they compete in a car race from Paris to Monte Carlo. The competitors include a British aristocrat, a French taxi driver, an Italian mechanic, and an American adventurer. Each participant drives a unique car, such as a steam-powered vehicle or a car made entirely of wood. The race tests not only their driving skills but their wit and determination, as they face various obstacles and setbacks along the way.

The film's opening sequence features a lively musical number, with the main actors performing in front of a giant globe, setting the tone for the colorful and lighthearted movie that follows. The characters are introduced through short vignettes, each highlighting their unique personalities and motivations for participating in the race. There's Sir Cuthbert Ware-Armitage, played by Terry-Thomas, a British aristocrat who hopes to win the race and restore his family's fortunes. Opposite him is Mr. Samadaya, played by Gert Frobe, an Austrian businessman who bets heavily on the outcome of the race.

Other notable racers include the bumbling French taxi driver Monsieur Dupont, played by Bourvil, and his Italian counterpart Angelo Pincelli, played by Walter Chiari, who is accompanied by his beautiful wife Regina, played by Mireille Darc. Also in the mix are the American adventurer and daredevil Chester Schofield, played by Tony Curtis, and his sidekick Betty, played by Susan Hampshire.

The race itself is the film's main attraction, providing plenty of opportunities for comedic mishaps and thrilling action sequences. The drivers encounter numerous roadblocks, ranging from incompetent mechanics and angry mobs to treacherous mountain passes and sudden rainstorms. The race also features various checkpoints, such as a beer festival in Germany and a bullfighting arena in Spain, leading to funny cultural clashes and misunderstandings.

Despite the madcap antics, the film has a heartwarming message about friendship and camaraderie. The drivers form unlikely alliances and help each other out when in need, showing that the race is about more than just winning. There are also poignant moments, such as when Monsieur Dupont, who initially entered the race to impress his girlfriend, realizes that he has fallen in love with his rival Angelo's wife.

In addition to the colorful characters and vibrant scenery, the film features impressive stunt work and classic car racing footage. The cars themselves are a sight to behold, with their intricate designs and creative modifications.

Overall, Those Daring Young Men In Their Jaunty Jalopies is a fun and entertaining movie that transports the viewer to a bygone era of racing and adventure. The film's lighthearted humor and charming performances make it a classic of its genre, perfect for audiences of all ages.