Shakespeare or Bust

About This Movie

So, 'Shakespeare or Bust' is this quirky little TV movie from '73 that takes you on a rather offbeat journey with three miners. They decide to ditch their day jobs for a boat trip to Stratford-on-Avon, which leads to a mix of comic mishaps and their somewhat naive adventures. The pacing feels like a mix of leisurely scenes interspersed with bursts of absurdity, which captures the essence of the era. The performances have that charmingly awkward style typical of the time, and while the practical effects are minimal, they suit the film's low-budget vibe. It's not your typical comedy; there's an almost whimsical exploration of aspiration versus reality that gives it a unique flavor.

This film hasn't had much in the way of home media releases, which makes it somewhat of a treasure for collectors. Its rarity is compounded by the fact that the director is largely unknown, adding an mysterious allure. If you come across a copy, it's often in those TV movie compilations or lesser-known collections, which might pique interest for those looking to complete their oddball TV movie slate.