Up 'N' Under (1998) Reviews

John Godber scripted and made his directorial debut with this adaptation of his 1984 play about an amateur rugby team. Decorator and ex-Rugby League player Arthur (Gary Olsen) accepts a high-stakes bet from Reg Welch (Tony Slattery), manager of the tough Cobbler Arms team. Arthur must train a team to beat the Cobbler Arms, and he chooses the weak Wheatsheaf Arms losers, a motley crew who would rather quaff at the local pub. They're uncooperative -- until Arthur introduces them to their new fitness instructor, attractive gym-owner Hazel (Samantha Janus of the Game On comedy series). The training sessions get underway, with Arthur keeping his big bet a secret from all concerned. Set in West Yorkshire, the film was actually shot in Cardiff, Wales. ~ Bhob Stewart, Rovi