The Carry On films occupy a unique place in the annals of British cinema. Beginning with 1958’s Carry On Sergeant and concluding with the ill-fated Carry On Columbus in 1992, the franchise delivered 31 films packed with slapstick humor, risqué gags, and a recurring ensemble cast that became household names. While the series peaked during the 1960s and 70s, it remains a cultural touchstone, sparking fond nostalgia and spirited debate about its humor and legacy in modern times.
This retrospective dives into the highs, the lows, and the lasting impact of a franchise that defined a generation of British comedy.
The Carry On franchise began as a modest comedy focused on National Service recruits in Carry On Sergeant (1958). Directed by Gerald Thomas and produced by Peter Rogers, the film was a surprise hit, combining gentle humor with relatable British quirks. It starred William Hartnell, later known as the first Doctor Who, alongside Kenneth Connor and Charles Hawtrey, actors who would become Carry On stalwarts.
By the time Carry On Nurse (1959) and Carry On Teacher (1959) rolled out, the series had established its winning formula: light-hearted stories, a core cast of comedic talent, and a sprinkling of innuendo.
The 1960s and early 70s marked the franchise’s zenith. Films like Carry On Cleo (1964), Carry On Up the Khyber (1968), and Carry On Camping (1969) delivered memorable one-liners, outrageous scenarios, and characters that audiences loved to laugh with — or at. Kenneth Williams, one of the series’ most iconic figures, brought his trademark delivery to lines such as “Infamy! Infamy! They’ve all got it in for me!” in Carry On Cleo, a gag so memorable it remains a hallmark of British comedy.
Sid James, Joan Sims, Hattie Jacques, Barbara Windsor, and Charles Hawtrey became regular faces, their on-screen chemistry contributing to the series’ runaway success. Films like Carry On Camping, with Windsor’s infamous bikini mishap, solidified Carry On as the epitome of cheeky British humor.
This era reflected Britain’s evolving attitudes — the bawdy jokes and saucy setups mirrored a society loosening its prudishness. Yet beneath the slapstick, the films often lampooned institutions like the British Empire (Carry On Up the Khyber) or social norms (Carry On Doctor).
By the mid-70s, the Carry On formula began to wear thin. While Carry On Abroad (1972) and Carry On Behind (1975) still delivered laughs, the humor started to feel dated. The increasing reliance on risqué jokes often veered into poor taste, alienating some viewers.
Carry On Emmanuelle (1978) was a nadir for the franchise, as its attempts to parody the erotic Emmanuelle films felt forced and out of touch. The box office reflected this downturn, and the series was put on hiatus.
Attempts to revive the brand, including the disastrous Carry On Columbus (1992), failed to recapture the magic. Despite featuring modern talent like Julian Clary and Rik Mayall, the humor felt outdated, and the film bombed both critically and commercially.
Despite its decline, the Carry On series still endears itself to fans. Its slapstick humor and playful irreverence remain hallmarks of British comedy, appealing to those who enjoy light-hearted escapism. The films’ ability to poke fun at societal norms and authority figures — while never taking themselves too seriously — remains a cherished trait.
Streaming platforms like ITVX and Prime Video now make many of the films available, ensuring their legacy continues. For fans wanting to revisit (or discover) the series, these platforms are a goldmine of British comedic history.
Viewed through today’s lens, some Carry On films present problematic themes. The series often leaned into stereotypes, gendered humor, and gags that haven’t aged well. For example, the treatment of women as objects of humor or desire (Carry On Camping) and the use of racial stereotypes (Carry On Up the Khyber) would face significant backlash today.
While the films are a product of their time, modern audiences must reconcile their love for the series with these less-savory aspects.
If Carry On were to be rebooted today, who would step into the iconic roles? While replicating the chemistry of the original cast is nearly impossible, here’s our current thoughts on a Carry On lineup:
- Sid James: Danny Dyer
- Kenneth Williams: Tom Allen
- Barbara Windsor: Maisie Smith
- Hattie Jacques: Jessica Hynes
- Charles Hawtrey: Stephen Fry
- Joan Sims: Daisy May Cooper
These actors, with their comedic chops and versatility, could bring a modern edge to Carry On while honoring its legacy. A reboot would also need to strike a balance between preserving the series’ cheeky humor and adapting to contemporary sensitivities.
The Carry On films remain an integral part of British cinema, capturing the spirit of a nation that loves to laugh at itself. While their humor might not always resonate with modern audiences, their influence on British comedy is undeniable. From Monty Python to Little Britain, the irreverent, slapstick style pioneered by Carry On endures.
For better or worse, the Carry On franchise reflects a specific era of British culture. Revisiting the films offers both a nostalgic journey and an opportunity to reflect on how far society — and comedy — has come.
So, whether you’re tuning in on ITVX or rediscovering classics like Carry On Up the Khyber, remember: in the world of Carry On, the only thing to take seriously is having a good laugh.
Stream many of the iconic Carry On films now on ITVX and Prime Video. For die-hard fans, physical collections of the series can also be found online for purchase.
