Is The National Health Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The National Health is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Comedy movies.
It features a runtime of 98 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The National Health Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1973, The National Health enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on Peter Nichols adapted his own hit play to the screen, based on his experiences in hospitals. Under the direction of Jack Gold, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Lynn Redgrave, Colin Blakely, Eleanor Bron. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The National Health offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, The National Health resonates with current cultural themes in the Comedy space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, The National Health is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The National Health centers on a unique premise within the Comedy landscape. Peter Nichols adapted his own hit play to the screen, based on his experiences in hospitals. A riotous black comedy that's as timely today as ever, it contrasts the appalling conditions in a overcrowded London hospital with a soap opera playing on the televisions there. In an ingenious touch, the same actors appear in the "real" story as well as the "TV" one, thus blurring the distinctions even further. Jack Gould directs such outstanding British actors as Lynn Redgrave, Colin Blakely, Eleanor Bron, Jim Dale, Donald Sinden, Mervyn Johns, and, in only his second film, Bob Hoskins. The renowned Carl Davis composed the score. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1973 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The National Health has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The National Health sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The National Health (1973): with an audience rating of 6.8/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a must-watch for fans of Comedy cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The National Health has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.8/10, and global collection metrics, The National Health stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1973 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The National Health movie hit or flop?
The National Health has received mixed reviews with a 6.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The National Health worth watching?
The National Health is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is The National Health?
The National Health is a Comedy movie that Peter Nichols adapted his own hit play to the screen, based on his experiences in hospitals. A riotous black comedy that's as timely today as ever, it...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The National Health movie hit or flop?
The National Health has received mixed reviews with a 6.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The National Health worth watching?
The National Health is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is The National Health?
The National Health is a Comedy movie that Peter Nichols adapted his own hit play to the screen, based on his experiences in hospitals. A riotous black comedy that's as timely today as ever, it...
Is The National Health family friendly?
Yes, The National Health is suitable for family viewing as it falls under the Comedy genre.
Where can I watch The National Health?
You can find streaming options and availability for The National Health on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of The National Health?
The National Health features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie The National Health?
The runtime and duration of The National Health are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
I think this must have worked better on stage, for once it hits the big screen it really only comes across as a slightly more earnest, lightly politically charged, “Carry On” or “Doctor at…”, concept with shades of the “Likely Lads” added for good measure. Hospitals always did provide very fertile territory for a sitcom, and here the pithy dialogue goes some way to raising a laugh. The characterisations are, however, all a bit two-dimensional - though that does work rather better when we are watching their own television parody of American medical soaps starring the same actors with some truly dreadful accents. In some ways that attempt at allegory does work. The well funded and slick operation (no pun intended) of the fictional US scenario contrasts quite starkly with it’s “real” UK equivalent, set in a run down London hospital where recycling was popular by necessity rather than environmental friendliness. The NHS is one of those things we Brits call a “National Treasure”, but this film seems content to downplay it’s achievements and it’s significance as one of the world’s oldest and biggest healthcare services that is free at the point of access. I didn’t really love the acting, if I’m honest. Clive Swift’s quirky and observant “Ash” maybe stole the show, but otherwise it has a distinct ring of the “ Carry On” cast-off about it with Donald Sinden and Jim Dale hamming it up annoyingly. Perhaps I just wasn’t in the mood, or maybe it was just of it’s time when a nation still laughed at “Steptoe” and “Alf Garnett”, but it’s a film that is rarely screened nowadays, and it’s not hard to understand why.