A Private Function [DVD] [1984]

A British couple's attempts to circumvent local food-rationing regulations trigger a chaotic series of events in this satirical comedy set in post-World War II England. The couple's scheme centers on a massive hog which has been illegally raised by a local farmer. Seeing a chance to capitalize on pork's scarcity, the ambitious Joyce Chilvers (Maggie Smith) convinces her mild-mannered husband (Michael Palin) to steal the pig. Unfortunately for the Chilverses, a vigilant food inspector is on duty and determined to stop all such illegal activity. The couple's efforts to hide the pig provide much material for frantic and sometimes grotesque farce. These broad moments are balanced by the more intellectual, satirical jibes, particularly sharp when targeting the British class system and the wife's social ambitions. Skilled comic performances by Smith and Monty Python alumnus Palin bring a human tone to playwright Alan Bennett's acerbic screenplay, but the film's harsh sense of humor will appeal most to those with a taste for British drollery.