Present Laughter Poster

Present Laughter 1967

100 min📅 1967-02-28

Peter O'Toole stars as a flamboyant, self-absorbed leading man in Present Laughter (1967), a sharp-witted comedy-drama directed by Gordon Flemyng that blends theatrical chaos with mid-century charm.

Director: Gordon Flemyng

Cast

Peter O'Toole
Peter O'Toole
Garry Essendine
Honor Blackman
Honor Blackman
Liz Essendine
Isla Blair
Isla Blair
Daphne Stillington
William Dexter
William Dexter
Henry Lyppiatt
Edward Hardwicke
Edward Hardwicke
Morris Dixon
Sheila Keith
Sheila Keith
Miss Erikson
Avice Landone
Avice Landone
Monica Reed
Marie Lohr
Marie Lohr
Lady Saltburn
Tim Preece
Tim Preece
Roland Maule
Yolande Turner
Yolande Turner
Joanna Lyppiatt

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Present Laughter (1967) about?

Peter O'Toole plays a self-obsessed actor whose life spirals into farce when his estranged wife won't let go, a playwright's obsession spirals out of control, and a string of admirers refuse to take no for an answer. The result is a high-energy mix of slapstick and sharp wit.

Who directed Present Laughter?

Gordon Flemyng directed this 1967 comedy-drama, bringing a keen eye for theatrical timing to the screen.

Who stars in Present Laughter?

The film features Peter O'Toole in the lead role, alongside Honor Blackman, Isla Blair, Edward Hardwicke, and Sheila Keith.

Is Present Laughter (1967) worth watching?

While IMDb ratings aren't available, the film's blend of sharp comedy and dramatic undertones, coupled with O'Toole's charismatic performance, makes it a rewarding watch for fans of classic British films. Its 100-minute runtime keeps the energy brisk without sacrificing depth.

How long is Present Laughter?

Present Laughter has a runtime of 100 minutes, perfect for a tightly paced evening of entertainment.

About Present Laughter (1967) — Classic Comedy-Drama Featuring Peter O'Toole's Theatrical Whirlwind

Peter O'Toole stars as a flamboyant, self-absorbed leading man in Present Laughter (1967), a sharp-witted comedy-drama directed by Gordon Flemyng that blends theatrical chaos with mid-century charm. Trapped in a whirlwind of absurdity, the aging actor grapples with an ex-wife's relentless demands, a parade of seductive admirers, and a playwright whose creative fervor borders on madness—each moment cranking up the farcical pressure. With a runtime of 100 minutes, this television movie captures the dizzying energy of backstage life, where ego, desire, and art collide in a delightfully unhinged spectacle.

The film's tone oscillates between biting satire and lighthearted slapstick, buoyed by O'Toole's magnetic performance and a supporting cast including Honor Blackman and Isla Blair, who navigate the chaos with razor-sharp timing. Themes of vanity, aging, and the price of fame underscore the humor, making Present Laughter (1967) a standout gem for fans of classic British comedies with a dash of dramatic flair.