A Piece of Cake 1948
In the bleak, ration-strapped landscape of post-war Britain, Cyril Fletcher's whimsical short film *A Piece of Cake (1948)* spins a lighthearted yet pointed fantasy about desire and consequence.
Director: John Irwin
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A Piece of Cake (1948) about?
This 1948 British fantasy-comedy follows a man who invents a magical figure able to grant wishes—but his fantasy turns sour when the magic works by stealing from others. Set against the harsh backdrop of post-war rationing, the film explores wish-fulfillment gone awry with sharp wit and lighthearted chaos.
Who directed A Piece of Cake?
The film was directed by John Irwin, a filmmaker known for blending humor with social observation in mid-century British cinema.
Who stars in A Piece of Cake?
The charming ensemble includes Cyril Fletcher and Betty Astell at the center, with Laurence Naismith, Jon Pertwee, and Sam Costa rounding out the cast.
Is A Piece of Cake (1948) worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, this short comedy-fantasy offers a delightful mix of British wit and magical satire. At just 46 minutes, it's a perfect palate cleanser for fans of vintage fantasy or post-war comedies with a bite.
How long is A Piece of Cake?
The film runs for 46 minutes.
About A Piece of Cake (1948) — A post-war British comedy with a twist of magical mischief
In the bleak, ration-strapped landscape of post-war Britain, Cyril Fletcher's whimsical short film *A Piece of Cake (1948)* spins a lighthearted yet pointed fantasy about desire and consequence. Directed by John Irwin, this 46-minute comedy-fantasy follows the misadventures of Cyril's dreamer-protagonist, who conjures a magical figure—Merlin Mound—capable of granting every wish. What starts as playful wish-fulfillment quickly spirals into chaos when Merlin's "gifts" materialize not through magic, but by swiping necessities from others, exposing the fragile ethics of scarcity and selfishness in a recovering society.
With its witty script and a cast led by the charismatic Fletcher, Betty Astell, and Laurence Naismith, *A Piece of Cake (1948)* blends featherweight humor with a surprisingly sharp commentary on human nature. The film's breezy tone belies its satirical edge, capturing the absurdity of post-war austerity while delivering a fantasy adventure that's as charming as it is thought-provoking.