Topsy-Turvy is a treat for the eye and ear. Unfortunately, the film has a numbing effect on two other parts of the anatomy, the topmost and the rear-most. Wonderful art direction and production values create a completely convincing sense of Victorian era England. Likewise the Gilbert and Sullivan set-pieces sprinkled throughout the film - mainly from The Mikado - are a musical delight. However, director Mike Leigh takes the viewer on an unconscionably long journey to arrive at what is essentially a Victorian version of the backstage musical. Some reviewers have suggested that the film is thereby an analysis of the creative process. Maybe, but I certainly didn't get that point on first viewing, nor any other point for that matter.
Review of Topsy-Turvy
