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We've got an unusual one this week: the 1969 comedy Monte Carlo or Bust! (aka Those Daring Young Men in their Jaunty Jalopies). Monte Carlo or Bust! is the sequel to the 1965 film Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines. It's a comedy racing movie set in the 1920s at the Monte Carlo Rally which stars Tony Curtis; it seems to be generally well regarded but no one on the team has seen it! You can join us this Friday via Discord to watch along.
The Wing Commander connection is equally mysterious and something we're going to have to explore as we watch. The quote that added it to our roster is from Chris Roberts' original treatment for the Wing Commander movie. Here he describes the film's climax–which seems to have become the 'broadside' scene–as being "literally Monte Carlo or Bust". Can we figure out what that means when we watch the movie?
As the Tiger's Claw slips behind a nearby planet, a plan is formulated to distract the Kilrathi flagship with an all out suicide-run by the fighters. Then the Confed carrier will maneuver into position for a full broadside firing solution. The Tiger's Claw only has enough power and ammunition for one pass. It's literally 'Monte Carlo or bust' ...
Where can I find a copy of the movie for the watch party?
Monte Carlo or Bust! is available for download from the Internet Archive. It is also available for rent or purchase on all the standard services. Note that it is called "Those Daring Young Men in their Jaunty Jalopies" in some regions. If you would like a physical copy, the movie was released on BluRay in 2011 and remains in print around the world. It is currently available as part of a double feature with Houdini, another Tony Curtis film. If you are not able to locate a copy please stop by the Discord and ping a CIC staff member before Friday's showing.
How do we watch the movie together?
It's pretty low tech! Simply join the Wing Commander CIC Discord on Friday and we will be chatting (in text) along with the film in the main channel. Everyone who wants to join in should bring their own copy and we will count down to play them together at 10 PM EST. Everyone is welcome and we encourage you to join in the conversation; sharing your thoughts helps make the experience better for everyone!
