6 - 5 Special (1958)(dvd)

Synopsis: “Over the points, over the points, over the points…” Here's the film version (just!) of one of BBC TV's much-loved nostalgic teenfests, a programme that grew out of the need to fill the Saturday slot between children's telly and early evening viewing (hence the title). It was hosted by Josephine Douglas and Pete Murray, both on hand here, and became a key showcase for British pop music in the pre-Beatles era. Ignore the wisp of a plot about two girls taking the titular train to London to crash showbiz.

The cast is a period knockout. Jim Dale and Petula Clark appear, along with one-time chart success and ex-Butlin's redcoat Russ Hamilton (remember?). There's also Joan Regan, Dickie Valentine and ol' uncle Lonnie Donegan an' all. It's a real period treat: fans should note Oscar-winning composer John Barry in there fronting his Seven on trumpet! Harmless, naive and sweet; honest.

Cast: Lonnie Donegan, Jim Dale.
Runtime: 85 min