The Bellboy

After 17 films with partner Dean Martin, and a further seven solo, Jerry Lewis persuaded Paramount to let him take on the directorial duties for the first time in one of his own films. Little more than a series of sketches set in the famous Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami, this very funny movie (which Lewis also produced and wrote) confirmed a clear directorial style, and proved Lewis well capable of continuing the tradition of great American comedy auteurs. Unfortunately, this unique talent has only really been recognised in France. Most British critics still loathe Lewis's humour, generally considering it infantile in the extreme. Suit yourself.