Even with Shirley on the payroll, the screenplay doesn't really succeed, and although the performances have energy, as a comedy it doesn't rate that well.
It was commendable that the screenplay portrayed some authenticism e.g. illegal actions by the platoon but overall it was disappointing. What wasn't believable was the platoon yelling & shouting at each other throughout the film whilst in enemy territory
Todd is pretty weak but Sellers gives a very good threatening performance. The supporting cast as usual in these British dramas has plenty of solid character actors. The screenplay is uncomplicated but the location shooting is late 50's London.
The battle scenes were well done and the wardrobe seemed to fit the period but the endless screenplay seemed to repeat itself which I suppose it means it was true to life. Not a bad history lesson though.
An excellent performance from Matt Dillon does good service to the well written screenplay. The camera work on some of the seedy parts of Portland also helps.