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Before the iconic character of Withnail played by Richard E Grant, there was Chick Byrd portrayed by Kenneth More in the 1964 British drama directed by Alvin Rakoff. Byrd is an actor who is struggling to find work and his carefree and cynical attitude tries to hide his growing fear of being permanently unemployed. Similar to Withnail, Byrd eagerly awaits a call from his agent, is shocked by his roommate’s sudden success in landing a glamorous film role, and is stuck living in a rundown boarding house in Camden Town (although exterior shots were filmed in Paddington).
After being let go from his provincial representative job, Chick returns to London to give his luck another try. He reconnects with familiar faces in the West End, a group of aging actors who spend their days in pubs and cafes and wander past theaters featuring glowing reviews for more successful performers. Chick’s former agent, the cynical and ill-natured Tommy Morris, has no interest in working with him, nor does the charming but untrustworthy Prout. Even fellow actor Rutherford, who owes Chick money, wants nothing to do with him. However, Chick reunites with an old flame, Judy, and begins a new relationship with Fay, who would later become his wife. Tragedy strikes when Chick’s friend Jack Lavery suffers a terrible event, causing Chick to make a regrettable decision that brings him fame and fortune, but comes at a cost.
The performance is full of energy and spirited dialogue, starting with Chick’s chaotic speech in the opening scene, which is truly impressive. However, there is a slightly outdated and shabby quality to The Comedy Man, likely due to More’s portrayal of a pompous and self-satisfied character in what is meant to be a comedic role. He doesn’t come across as a professional actor, but more like a conceited golf club regular. While Chick is intended to be insufferable, it’s worth questioning if he is meant to be this insufferable. In addition, there are moments of casual sexism and homophobia that modern viewers can acknowledge and forgive, but they lack the wit and humanity to redeem them as they do in other films of the time.
After mentioning all of this, the blue chip cast gives a solid performance – although it is unfortunate to witness Dennis Price, the renowned leading actor from Kind Hearts and Coronets, not being utilized to his full potential in a British film. It provides an energetic portrayal of Britain during the early 1960s.
Source: theguardian.com
