Once a Jolly Swagman

Once a Jolly Swagman (U.S. title: Maniacs on Wheels) is a 1949 British film starring Dirk Bogarde, Bonar Colleano, Bill Owen, Thora Hird and Sid James. It was written by William Rose and Jack Lee, based on the 1944 novel of the same title by Montagu Slater.

It is centred on the sport of motorcycle speedway racing, which was at its peak of popularity at the time.

The title of the film refers to the first line of the Australian song "Waltzing Matilda".

Cast

 * Dirk Bogarde as Bill Fox
 * Bonar Colleano as Tommy Possey
 * Renée Asherson as Pat Gibbon
 * Bill Owen as Lag Gibbon
 * Moira Lister as Dorothy 'Dotty' Liz
 * Thora Hird as Ma Fox
 * Cyril Cusack as Duggie Lewis
 * Sidney James as Rowton
 * James Hayter as Pa Fox
 * Patric Doonan as Dick Fox
 * Russell Waters as Mr Pusey
 * Dudley Jones as Taffy
 * Anthony Oliver as Derek Blake
 * Pauline Jameson as Mrs Lewis
 * Sandra Dorne as Kay Fox
 * Stuart Lindsell as Christopher Yates
 * Frederick Knight as Chick
 * Michael Kent as solicitor
 * Cyril Chamberlain as Jimmy, the reporter
 * June Bardsley as WAAF Flight Sergeant

Production
Director Jack Lee later said he enjoyed making the film "because it was physical, there was action and I had good actors."

Critical reception
The Monthly Film Bulletin wrote: "An authentic story of the dangers of a career based on skill and chance is vividly portrayed in this realistic film of speedway life. All the thrills and spills of speedway racing are conveyed in the excellent track photography. Dirk Bogarde as Bill gives depth to the character by some splendid acting. Bonar Colleano as Tommy provides comedy relief in his inimitable American way, and Bill Owen and Renee Asherson as Lag and Pat head a competent supporting cast. Many scenes are superfluous, and part of the plot irrelevant, but the film is original and entertaining, presenting the "back stage" side of track life with realism and sincerity."