Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a classic children’s fantasy. The film was co-scripted by Roald Dahl and is based on Ian Fleming’s novel Chitty Chitty Bang Bang: The Magical Car. The film stars Dick Van Dyke, Sally Ann Howes, Lionel Jeffries and Benny Hill and was directed by Ken Hughes.

The film was a box office hit but went significantly over budget and so did not make the money the studio had hoped for. Although, now it is as popular as ever with children and their parents, who grew up with the film. This is partly due to the fantastic songs in the film which everyone knows the words to and sings along with.

Many viewers found Dick Van Dyke to be the absolute star and he carries the film with his huge on screen presence and perfect comic timing. Howes is sweet as the love interest but some viewers found her character a little flat compared to the other flamboyant cast members. The film is enhanced by some dark moments especially those with the Child Catcher, as it highlights the lighters moments even more.

A widowed father buys an old car for his children and then discovers it is able to fly. Whilst on a picnic with his children and a young upper class lady the father sees an evil Baron kidnap his father. The car then flies them to Vulgaria so they can rescue him.

Cinema release 1968

Certificate U

Available on DVD