Introduction
Released in 1988, A Fish Called Wanda is a classic British-American comedy film written by John Cleese and Charles Crichton. The film follows a gang of four criminals who plan to steal a large amount of jewels from a London bank, only to have their plans foiled by a police investigation. This article will explore the making of the movie, its characters, its cinematography, and its legacy.
Review of the Fish Called Wanda Movie
The movie was a critical and commercial success, earning Academy Award nominations for Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Supporting Actress (Jamie Lee Curtis), and Best Supporting Actor (Kevin Kline). It also won the BAFTA Award for Best Film, and the Writers Guild of America Award for Best Original Screenplay. It was also praised for its wit and charm, with Roger Ebert calling it “one of the funniest films ever made”.
The film has had a lasting cultural impact, with many of its jokes and lines becoming popular catchphrases. One of the most famous lines, “It’s not the men in your life that counts, it’s the life in your men”, has been quoted by many people over the years. The film also spawned a sequel in 1997, Fierce Creatures, which was not as successful as the original.
The Making of Fish Called Wanda
The film was produced by Michael Shamberg, who had previously worked on Monty Python’s Life of Brian. The screenplay was written by John Cleese and Charles Crichton, who had previously collaborated on the classic British comedy A Private Function. The cast includes Jamie Lee Curtis, Kevin Kline, John Cleese, Michael Palin, and Tom Georgeson. The film was shot on location in London, Scotland, and Jamaica.
The production of the film was met with a number of difficulties, including the death of Michael Palin’s father during filming and a dispute between John Cleese and the producers over the ending of the film. Despite these setbacks, the film was completed on time and under budget.
Exploring the Characters in Fish Called Wanda
The film features an ensemble cast of characters, each of whom plays a distinct role in the story. John Cleese plays Archie Leach, a barrister hired by the criminals to help them evade the law. Jamie Lee Curtis plays Wanda Gershwitz, a seductive American con artist. Kevin Kline plays Otto West, a bumbling and dimwitted criminal mastermind. Michael Palin plays Ken Pile, a mild-mannered animal lover. Finally, Tom Georgeson plays George Thomason, a corrupt business tycoon.
The characters are all connected by their involvement in the crime, and their interactions provide much of the film’s humor. All of the characters have their own motivations and goals, and the story is driven by their conflicts and relationships. The characters undergo significant arcs throughout the course of the film, and their decisions have a lasting effect on the outcome of the story.
The Legacy of Fish Called Wanda
Fish Called Wanda was a major success upon its release, and its reputation has only grown over time. It has won numerous awards, including the BAFTA Award for Best Film and the Writers Guild of America Award for Best Original Screenplay. It has also been included on several lists of the greatest comedies of all time, including Empire magazine’s list of the 100 Best Films of World Cinema.
The film has had a lasting impact on the comedy genre, inspiring other filmmakers to incorporate similar elements. In particular, its use of physical comedy, witty dialogue, and larger-than-life characters has become a staple of the genre. The film has also been credited with revitalizing the careers of John Cleese and Jamie Lee Curtis.
Analyzing the Cinematography of Fish Called Wanda
The cinematography of Fish Called Wanda is an integral part of its success. The film was shot on location in London, Scotland, and Jamaica, and the locations add to the atmosphere of the film. The camera techniques used in the film are innovative, with long tracking shots and inventive angles used to create dynamic visuals. The editing choices are also noteworthy, with quick cuts and montages used to great effect.
How Fish Called Wanda Changed the Comedy Genre
Fish Called Wanda has had a lasting impact on the comedy genre. Its influence can be seen in a number of subsequent films, from the Farrelly brothers’ Dumb and Dumber to the Coen brothers’ The Big Lebowski. It has also changed the conventions of the genre, introducing elements such as physical comedy and clever dialogue that have since become staples of the genre.
The film has also had a lasting impact on popular culture. Its memorable characters and catchphrases have become widely quoted, and its influence can be seen in everything from television shows to video games. It has also been referenced in a number of other films, including Shrek 2 and Hot Fuzz.
Conclusion
In conclusion, A Fish Called Wanda is a classic comedy film that has had a lasting impact on the genre. Its production history is filled with challenges, but it ultimately became a critical and commercial success. Its characters, cinematography, and script have all contributed to its lasting legacy, and its influence can still be felt in contemporary comedies. For anyone looking to explore the history of comedy, A Fish Called Wanda is an essential viewing experience.
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