Is Up Pompeii Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Up Pompeii is likely a skip if you enjoy Comedy movies.
It features a runtime of 90 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Up Pompeii Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1971, Up Pompeii enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on A funny thing happens to Lurcio on the way to the rent-a-vestal-virgin market stall. Under the direction of Bob Kellett, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Frankie Howerd, Patrick Cargill, Bill Fraser. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Aspects & Direction
From a technical standpoint, Up Pompeii offers a competent presentation. The cinematography aligns well with the tone, keeping the narrative moving at a brisk pace.
Where to Watch
As of January 2026, Up Pompeii is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US and UK, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45 days after the theatrical release. Check your local listings for specific showtimes.
Final Thoughts
With an audience rating of 5.9/10, the reception has been divisive. For fans of Comedy, it serves as a skippable entry unless you go in with lowered expectations.
Cast of Up Pompeii
- Frankie Howerd – Lurcio
- Patrick Cargill – Nero
- Bill Fraser – Prosperus Maximus
- Michael Hordern – Ludicrus Sextus
- Barbara Murray – Ammonia
Top Highlights
Frankie HowerdLurcio
Patrick CargillNero
Bill FraserProsperus Maximus
Michael HordernLudicrus Sextus
Barbara MurrayAmmonia
Lance PercivalCaptain Bilius
Adrienne PostaScrubba
Bernard BresslawGorgo
Roy HuddNero's M.C.
Julie EgeVoluptua
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.9/10, and global collection metrics, Up Pompeii stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1971 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Up Pompeii movie hit or flop?
Up Pompeii has received mixed reviews with a 5.9/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Up Pompeii worth watching?
Up Pompeii is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is Up Pompeii?
Up Pompeii is a Comedy movie that A funny thing happens to Lurcio on the way to the rent-a-vestal-virgin market stall. A mysterious scroll falls into his hands, listing the names of al...
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Critic Reviews
Movie spin-off from the popular TV series with Howerd repeating his role as the hapless slave involved in farcial goings-on. Packed with double entendres, the script gives full rein to Howerd's brand of mockery, with frequent breaking of the fourth wall, made when he was the most popular UK comic. The cheerfully cheap looking set is hardly expanded from the original while the plot is similarly loose. Howerd provokes the ire of Roman officer Percival who pursues him throughout the movie, including when his owners, Horden and Murray, throw a lascivious orgy, filled with naked flesh. Fraser has organised the assassination of fey Emperor Nero (Cargill) which Howerd proceeds to disrupt. It all ends with the volcano killing everybody! The decorous female cast is definitely a plus, with Smith as Erotica a standout in more ways than one. The beauteous Ege has little to do, but looks so good it hardly matters. Made when many British TV shows were turned into features, this is still a fun watch.