

Clochemerle is a 1972 British–West German television comedy based on Gabriel Chevallier's 1934 novel of the same name, with Ray Galton and Alan Simpson adapting the text. Filmed on location in France, it starred Roy Dotrice, Wendy Hiller, Cyril Cusack, Kenneth Griffith, and Cyd Hayman, with narration by Peter Ustinov. In the small French village of Clochemerle, Mayor Barthelemey Piechut plans for the erection of a 'pissoir' (gentlemen's public convenience) in the town square. Unfortunately, the rest of the rural inhabitants aren't as impressed.
Michael Mills
BBC Two
9
30 min

Every politician wants to leave a legacy and Mayor Bartholemy Piechut is no different — erecting a latrine in the village square might be a magnificent idea, but he knows he'll need help swinging opinion his way.
Feb 18, 1972

Aided by persuasive allies, Piechut gets his way and a startling new civic amenity is inaugurated, right outside the church and local shops — with mixed reviews from locals.
Feb 25, 1972

Old maid about town Justine Putet rallies support for her opposition to the newly installed village latrine.
Mar 3, 1972

Young soldier Claudius returns home from army manoeuvres, only to discover he potentially shares the blame with the new urinal for bespoiling Clochemerle treasures. His father surprisingly rates developments a good vintage!
Mar 10, 1972

The priest's sermon decrying the urinal in interrupted.
Mar 17, 1972

War breaks out on all fronts · village against village - innkeepers wife against shopkeepers wife – pro latrine mayor versus the rest, even the aristocracy get involved!
Mar 24, 1972

The fate of Clochemerle and its demolished latrine becomes a pass-the-parcel of responsibilities between church, ministers, and the army. Watch out, unsuspecting residents!
Mar 31, 1972

The army arrive in Clochemerle on 'manoeuvres', trouble is soon not far behind when the Captain mounts more than his horse. Piechut plans somehow take a step forward, notwithstanding a now barricaded urinal.
Apr 7, 1972

The villagers of Clochemerle face off against the army.
Apr 14, 1972

Narrator