The Big Day (1960 film)

The Monthly Film Bulletin wrote: "Bitterly real and with an outstanding performance by Donald Pleasence, together with one or two sardonically characterised supporting roles, this Bryanston picture achieves something most distinctive in the realm of British second feature production. The idea is simple, but Macllwraith's tight and sinewy screenplay heightens into a serious exposé of manners and morals ay confines of a closed little society. Effectively handled in every department, directed with punch by Peter Graham Scott, the film is particularly memorable for the mockery and irony of its ending."^{[4][verification needed]}

Kine Weekly wrote: "Business drama, containing a subtle feminine interest. The hand-picked cast and resourceful director spin the tough, yet pliable, threads into holding and compact screen fare. Very good British "support". ... Closely knit tale, popular team, skilful treatment, sharp dialogue, handy footage and quota ticket".^[5]

Picture Show wrote: "Tight, tense little drama ... it's brilliantly acted, particularly by Donald Pleasence. There's no one who can play a nervous, small-minded man better than he. Excellent supporting feature.^[6]

The Irish Times described the film as "a prime example of how one can make a good film on a small budget. ... It has no heroes and no happy ending but it holds the interest throughout and is well acted from start to finish. It can be recommended to anyone who is tired of the old trite situations and triter dialogue."^[7]

Chibnall & McFarlane write in The British 'B' Film that the film "opens on a moment of erotic intensity unusual at any level of British film-making at the time".^[2]: 198

• The Big Day at IMDb