Up 'n' Under is a British 1998 film adaptation of the John Godber play of the same name.
John Godber scripted and made his directorial debut with this adaptation of his play. The film was shot in Cardiff, Wales. It stars Gary Olsen, Richard Ridings, Samantha Janus, Ralph Brown, Adrian Hood and Neil Morrissey.
Contents
Plot
Up 'n' Under follows the story of an inept pub team from the 'Wheatsheaf Arms' in a rugby league sevens competition in Kingston upon Hull in England. Ex-pro Arthur's only passions in life are his wife and rugby league. When he hears about the 'Cobblers Arms' pub team and their corrupt manager, Arthur bets his life savings with Reg Welch that he can train any team to beat them.
However, the 'Wheatsheaf Arms' can only muster a side of five whose pride lies in their unbroken record of defeat. The pitifully unfit set of men have to accept the help of a coach, who just happens to be a woman. Hazel solidifies their resolve and raises questions of their character.
They have to struggle through adversity, come up triumphant and become a team. They are given a bye to the final of the competition where they have to play The Cobblers.
Cast and characters
Gary Olsen – Arthur
Richard Ridings – Frank
Samantha Janus – Hazel
Ralph Brown – Phil
Neil Morrissey – Steve
Adrian Hood – Tommy
David MacCreedy – Tony
Tony Slattery – Reg Welch
Brian Glover – Jack
Griff Rhys Jones – Ray Mason
Jane Clifford–Thornton – Doreen
Susan Tully – June
John Thomson – Stan
Iain Rogerson – Ambulance Man
Adam Fogerty – Wayne
Ray Gravell – Referee
Production
Samantha Janus gained two stone for the role which took her weight to eleven stone. She said that this made her "squirm" at the thought of having to appear naked in the film.
Reception
The film grossed £3.45 million ($5.8 million) in the UK.