Is Roger of the Raj Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1979)

📖 The Core Premise

Roger of the Raj stands as a 1979 entry that attempts to leave its mark on the Comedy landscape. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "On the eve of the Great War Roger Bartlesham's aristocratic parents are firm believers in the Empire though Roger, encouraged by socialist Latin teacher Mr Hopper,dreams of equality and opening a tea shop with his sweet-heart Miranda. After a sojourn in India where various officers shoot themselves to atone for breaches in etiquette Roger gets caught up in Hopper's attempt to bring the Russian revolution to England but is rescued from the chaos by Miranda in time for them to pursue their dream."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Michael Palin shines in a role that demands both nuance and gravitas, elevating the material significantly. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Comedy. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Roger of the Raj worth your time? If you appreciate Comedy films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 1979, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Roger of the Raj is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 30 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.