Please Turn Over 1959

In a quiet and seemingly ordinary English town, seventeen-year-old Jo Halliday lives a life that many might consider dull. She works as a hairdresser and resides with her family—her nagging mother, pompous father, and fitness-obsessed aunt. Her father, an accountant, often wishes that Jo, who is quite dreamy and somewhat untidy, could be more like his meticulous secretary, Miss Millicent Jones.

One day, a shocking revelation appears in the local newspaper—Jo has written a book titled Naked Revolt, and it quickly becomes an instant bestseller. The novel narrates the story of a young girl who uncovers unsettling truths about her family and neighbors, ultimately fleeing to London to pursue a career as a prostitute. However, the residents of the town immediately believe that this book is a true reflection of Jo’s own family life.

This misunderstanding causes chaos: her father is suspected of theft at his workplace because of the book, and her mother is wrongly assumed to be a ‘harlot’ engaged in a long-term affair with a retired army officer, who only happens to be a family friend and who gives Jo her driving lessons. Additionally, her local doctor is falsely portrayed as a womanizer involved with multiple patients, neglecting the fact that he is actually a shy and decent man, unconnected to the dark stories spun around him.

In reality, all these accusations are baseless—her father is honest and genuinely loves her mother, the doctor is shy and innocent, and the army officer is just a friend. Unbeknownst to her family and neighbors, Jo has left the town for London in the company of Robert Hughes, a young playwright who sees her as an artistic collaborator interested in turning her controversial book into a play. As they bond over their shared experiences and perspectives, Jo and Robert become engaged, marking a significant shift in her life.

When Jo returns home, she faces the fury of her relatives and neighbors. The doctor threatens to sue her for defamation, and her parents are deeply questioning each other’s fidelity due to the turmoil. Despite this, a heartfelt moment occurs when her father, Lionel Jeffries, defends her, expressing his support for her talent, even if he disapproves of her methods. The tension eases further when Aunt Gladys, portrayed by June Jago, confesses her unrequited love for the doctor, leading to their decision to become a couple.

Throughout this tumultuous period, the story underscores themes of misunderstanding, the power of creativity, and the importance of family support. It explores how appearances can be deceiving and the lengths people go to protect their loved ones, uncovering genuine relationships amid the chaos. The film ultimately portrays a vibrant, humorous, and heartfelt portrait of small-town life and the challenges faced when personal truths clash with societal perceptions.