Monty Python's Michael Palin accidentally prevents WWI while on vacation. Utter chaos ensues.
In 1913 the British government, hearing that the Germans are planning World War I, ask top agent Whinfrey to intervene, but instead he decides to go on holiday to Cornish fishing village Torpoint. Here he believes he has stumbled upon a smuggling ring, but in fact they are Germans who are masquerading as locals in an advance invasion party. The British arrive and arrest them, believing that Whinfrey deliberately planned everything - though it is apparent that he did not.
Acting
Palin's trademark befuddlement at peak Python-era energy.
Writing
Wodehouse-meets-spy-farce dialogue, deliciously dry.
Director
Alan J.W. Bell
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This 32-minute gem was buried in BBC schedules for decades before Palin completists resurrected it.
A deadpan satire of Bulldog Drummond-style imperial heroics—British cinema's obsession with effortless competence, demolished.
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