Big Banana Feet (1977) | Review

Synopsis: A behind-the-scenes look at the culmination of Billy Connelly’s ’Big Banana Feet’ tour as he visits Dublin and Belfast

Director: Murray Grigor

Glossy DVD extra features and Netflix docuseries have largely done away with the concept of the ‘concert’ movie (certainly those which don't involve Taylor Swift) but Big Banana Feet is a welcome rough and ready time behind the curtain of Billy Connelly’s time over in Ireland.

The film can be separated into two main components — the set and the interviews Connelly is dragged out of bed to attend. His set is relatively tame by modern standards but no less funny. The real joy here was my introduction to Connelly’s songs, which are all delivered with real heart. I credit this film with introducing ‘Sergeant, Where’s Mine?’ into my life for which I am very grateful.

Elsewhere, Connelly is routinely shuttled to speak with radio hosts and newspaper journalists. Top of their agenda is the 'appropriateness' of his comic material. Not only does Connelly offer thoughtful defences for his gags but he ponders the usefulness of his comedy reaching Dublin and Belfast during The Troubles. He routinely mentions that he was advised not to take the tour to either side of Ireland but all this real-world tension brings a sense of tranquillity to his performances. You’re reminded of comedy’s healing and uniting power, smoothed over by Connelly admitting he didn’t perform some controversial pieces that may have upset more traditional audience members.

It’s a neat time capsule of a film brimming with smiles. More often than not, these are from people meeting Connelly backstage, as he lands at an airport or arrives at a hotel. He is delightful towards everything from hotel managers to tea ladies and this was a tidy return to the big screen for the tour.