Roger of the Raj is the most successful of the many fine episodes in the Ripping Yarns series. It offers a critique of many political standpoints, showing how close to lunacy we all are. The performances of Richard Vernon (as Lord Bartlesham) and Joan Sanderson (as Lady Bartlesham) are classic cameos in the tradition of subtle British comedy. The scene of the Bartleshams at breakfast is particularly clever and funny, satirizing both liberal and conservative political values. Michael Palin's performance as their son, Roger, is judiciously restrained, allowing the older stars to shine.
It is a great pity that Ripping Yarns has not had more widespread recognition as a series and that that this episode in particular is not better known.
It is a great pity that Ripping Yarns has not had more widespread recognition as a series and that that this episode in particular is not better known.