And the Ship Sails On (1983)

Set sail on a journey to the past, where the elegance of 1914 is enshrined on a luxurious cruise ship departing from Italy. This opulent vessel, serving as a floating shrine, carries the ashes of the celebrated opera diva, Tetua. Aboard are her eclectic cohort of mourners: opera singers, actors, and a kaleidoscope of exotic personalities, each more captivating than the last. Among this colorful ensemble is a delightfully clumsy journalist, who with pen in hand, narrates the voyage. His chronicles weave a rich tapestry of life aboard the ship, capturing the sweet serenity of the early days at sea. The ship, much like an extravagant stage, presents a spectacle of admiration and eccentricities amidst the melancholy occasion. However, the tranquillity is short-lived. On the third day, the narrative takes a turn as the ship becomes a beacon of hope amidst the dark waters. The captain, in an act of humanity, rescues a considerable number of Serbian refugees adrift at sea. These refugees, fleeing from the initial tremors of WWI, bring with them a stark reality check. The ship, once a sanctuary of artistry and indulgence, is now a lifeboat in the wake of the impending war. "And the Ship Sails On" is an intricate blend of history and drama, a floating microcosm of joy, sorrow, and the harsh realities of life, all set against the backdrop of a world on the brink of change.

And the Ship Sails On is a comedy movie featuring Freddie Jones.

And the Ship Sails On is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.