Which Way to the Front?

Synopsis

Which Way to the Front? is a 1970 comedy film starring Jerry Lewis who also directed it. The story follows a wacky and inventive man who is determined to join the military effort during World War II but keeps getting rejected due to his age and demeanor. Undeterred, he concocts a plan to create his own private army to fight against the Axis powers. The film blends slapstick humor with farcical situations as Lewis's character navigates absurd obstacles, reflecting the era's comedic style. Despite its lighthearted tone, the movie touches on themes of patriotism and individual initiative during turbulent times.

Cast

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  Jerry Lewis

  Brendan Byers III

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  Jan Murray

  Sid Hackle

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  John Wood

  Finkel

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  Steve Franken

  Peter Bland

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  Willie Davis

  Lincoln

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  Dack Rambo

  Terry Love

Reviews

Critically, Which Way to the Front? received mixed reactions, often leaning towards the negative side. On IMDb, it holds a modest rating of 4.6 out of 10, indicating general viewer dissatisfaction. Many critics found the humor dated and the pacing uneven. For instance, film reviewer Leonard Maltin gave it a low score, noting that while Jerry Lewis's physical comedy moments were present, the film suffered from a lack of coherent plot and overall originality. Rotten Tomatoes does not provide a critic score due to limited reviews but user submissions echo similar sentiments, with appreciation for Lewis’s signature style tempered by frustration with the film’s repetitiveness. On Metacritic, the film does not have a formal score, but retrospectives describe it as one of Lewis's lesser works, citing its failure to capture the charm of his earlier classics. However, some fans of classic slapstick enjoyed the film as a nostalgic piece showcasing Jerry Lewis's quirks and comedic timing. Overall, Which Way to the Front? is considered a minor entry in Lewis’s filmography, notable mainly for his dedicated effort in multiple roles but lacking the spark found in his best work.