The Secret Policeman's Ball (1979): cast, story & where to watch
1979 · Film · ★ 6.8
Released in 1979, The Secret Policeman's Ball is a comedy and music film directed by Roger Graef, running about 75 minutes.
What it’s about. Amnesty decided not to present a benefit show in 1978 in order to consider how to make better use of the performing talent so favourably disposed to assist it in raising funds. Peter Luff left Amnesty in 1978 and the organisation's new fund-raising officer, Peter Walker, was deputed to work with Lewis on reconfiguring the show to raise more money and greater awareness of Amnesty. Lewis proposed to Cleese that in addition to the comedy performances the show should feature some contemporary rock musicians. Cleese delegated this responsibility to Lewis who recruited Who guitarist Pete Townshend to perform, as well as New Wave singer-songwriter Tom Robinson.
Who’s in it. The Secret Policeman's Ball stars Rowan Atkinson as Various Roles, John Cleese as Himself - Various Roles, Billy Connolly as Himself and Peter Cook as Various Roles, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.8/10, The Secret Policeman's Ball has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Secret Policeman's Ball page.
If you liked it. Fans of The Secret Policeman's Ball tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Parasite, Life Is Beautiful and Fight Club.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch The Secret Policeman's Ball (1979)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Secret Policeman's Ball change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is The Secret Policeman's Ball worth watching?
- The Secret Policeman's Ball holds an audience score of 6.8 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy comedy and music. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in The Secret Policeman's Ball?
- The Secret Policeman's Ball stars Rowan Atkinson, John Cleese, Billy Connolly, Peter Cook and Michael Palin.
- When was The Secret Policeman's Ball released?
- The Secret Policeman's Ball was released in 1979, with a runtime of about 75 minutes.