A Fish Called Wanda (1988) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“A Fish Called Wanda,” directed by Charles Crichton and co-written by John Cleese and Charlie Peters, is a classic British-American heist comedy that has delighted audiences since its release in 1988. With its sharp wit, memorable performances, and intricate plot, the film remains a standout in the genre of comedy. The ensemble cast, led by John Cleese, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kevin Kline, and Michael Palin, delivers a mix of slapstick humor, clever dialogue, and comedic timing that has earned the film a lasting place in cinematic history.
Plot Summary
The plot of “A Fish Called Wanda” revolves around a group of criminals who plan a heist to steal a fortune in diamonds. The film begins with the successful robbery of a jewelry store, orchestrated by a group led by George Thomason (played by Tom Georgeson). After the heist, George hides the stolen diamonds and goes into hiding, leaving the rest of the gang to figure out how to get their share of the loot.
Wanda Gershwitz (played by Jamie Lee Curtis) is a seductive and manipulative con artist who is also involved in the heist. She has her own plans for the diamonds and seeks to double-cross her accomplices. Wanda begins a romantic affair with Archie Leach (played by John Cleese), a barrister who is unwittingly dragged into the scheme. Archie, who is in a troubled marriage, becomes entangled in Wanda’s web of deceit.
Otto West (played by Kevin Kline), Wanda’s partner and a loud-mouthed, aggressive American, is also vying for the diamonds. Otto’s interactions with the other characters add a layer of chaos and humor to the story. The film’s plot unfolds with a series of comedic mishaps, double-crosses, and misunderstandings as Wanda tries to manipulate everyone to get what she wants.
Ken Pile (played by Michael Palin), another member of the gang, has a unique character arc involving his passion for animals and his struggles with a stuttering problem. His subplot, involving a series of increasingly absurd events, provides some of the film’s most memorable and humorous moments.
Character Performances
John Cleese delivers a standout performance as Archie Leach, a hapless barrister who finds himself caught in a complicated and dangerous situation. Cleese’s trademark comedic timing and dry humor shine through, making Archie’s predicament both funny and relatable. His interactions with Wanda and Otto provide much of the film’s comedic tension.
Jamie Lee Curtis excels as Wanda Gershwitz, the film’s scheming femme fatale. Curtis brings a blend of charm, seduction, and cunning to the role, making Wanda a memorable and compelling character. Her performance is both playful and sharp, adding depth to the film’s comedic elements.
Kevin Kline is a scene-stealer as Otto West, delivering a high-energy, over-the-top performance that contrasts hilariously with the other characters. Kline’s portrayal of Otto is both ridiculous and menacing, providing a perfect foil to Cleese’s and Curtis’s characters. His comedic timing and physical humor are central to many of the film’s funniest moments.
Michael Palin brings a unique and endearing quality to his role as Ken Pile. Palin’s portrayal of Ken, a stuttering animal lover who is caught up in the heist, adds a layer of absurdity and warmth to the film. His character’s interactions with the animals and his attempts to deal with the various mishaps provide a substantial amount of the film’s humor.
Themes and Audience Appeal
“A Fish Called Wanda” explores themes of greed, deception, and the complexities of human relationships. The film’s plot centers around the characters’ schemes to obtain the diamonds and their various attempts to outwit each other. The themes of betrayal and manipulation are handled with a comedic touch, making the film both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The film’s humor is a blend of verbal wit and physical comedy, appealing to a wide audience. The clever dialogue and situational comedy create a dynamic and engaging viewing experience. The characters’ interactions, misunderstandings, and the escalating chaos of their schemes provide a continuous source of laughs.
The film also delves into the nature of personal desires and the lengths people will go to achieve their goals. Wanda’s manipulations and Otto’s aggression reflect the characters’ willingness to pursue their interests at the expense of others. This exploration of human motivations is presented through a comedic lens, making it accessible and enjoyable.
Visuals and Direction
Charles Crichton’s direction of “A Fish Called Wanda” is characterized by its sharp pacing and seamless integration of humor and plot. Crichton’s ability to balance the film’s comedic elements with its intricate heist storyline ensures that the film remains engaging from start to finish. The direction allows the film’s ensemble cast to shine, with each actor’s performance contributing to the overall comedic effect.
The film’s cinematography, handled by Alan Hume, captures the various settings and situations with a light touch. The visual style complements the film’s tone, using bright and clean shots to enhance the comedic moments. The film’s setting in London adds to its charm, with the city serving as a backdrop for the characters’ antics.
The score, composed by John du Prez, adds to the film’s energetic and humorous atmosphere. The music supports the comedic timing and enhances the film’s overall tone, contributing to its memorable and enjoyable experience.
Reception and Impact
“A Fish Called Wanda” was a critical and commercial success, receiving praise for its clever script, strong performances, and successful blend of comedy and heist elements. The film was nominated for several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Kevin Kline, who won the Oscar for his performance.
The film’s impact lies in its ability to combine humor with a well-crafted plot, creating a memorable and entertaining experience. The ensemble cast’s performances, particularly those of Cleese, Curtis, Kline, and Palin, have been widely praised and are considered some of the best in comedy cinema.
The film’s legacy continues to be celebrated, with many fans considering it a classic example of British-American comedy. Its blend of witty dialogue, physical humor, and intricate plot has ensured its lasting popularity and influence in the genre.
Streaming Availability: Where to Watch “A Fish Called Wanda” Online
If you’re interested in watching “A Fish Called Wanda,” the film is available on several streaming platforms, especially in the United States.
Amazon Prime Video
“A Fish Called Wanda” is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $3.99 to $4.99 for HD quality, and purchasing the movie generally costs between $9.99 and $14.99. Amazon Prime Video supports streaming on various devices, making it a convenient option for viewers.
Apple iTunes
Apple iTunes offers “A Fish Called Wanda” for rent and purchase. Rentals usually start at $3.99 for HD quality, with purchase options around $9.99 to $14.99. The movie can be streamed on Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, and Apple TVs, or through the Apple TV app on compatible devices.
Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Movies & TV provides “A Fish Called Wanda” for rental or purchase. The rental prices are similar to other platforms, typically between $3.99 and $4.99, with purchase options ranging from $9.99 to $14.99. This platform is accessible on Android devices and through web browsers.
Vudu
Vudu offers “A Fish Called Wanda” for rent or purchase, with rental prices starting at $3.99 and purchase prices around $9.99 to $14.99. Vudu supports streaming in various formats, making it a versatile option for different viewing preferences.
YouTube Movies
YouTube Movies offers “A Fish Called Wanda” for rental and purchase, with prices starting at $3.99 for rentals and $9.99 to $14.99 for purchases. YouTube Movies is accessible on almost any device with internet access, providing a convenient option for viewers.
Final Thoughts
“A Fish Called Wanda” is a classic comedy that combines clever writing, strong performances, and an engaging plot to create a memorable film experience. With standout performances from John Cleese, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kevin Kline, and Michael Palin, the film offers a blend of humor, wit, and charm that has made it a beloved favorite among audiences.
Whether you’re revisiting this comedy classic or watching it for the first time, “A Fish Called Wanda” promises an entertaining and enjoyable experience. Its availability on multiple streaming platforms ensures that it is easy to access and enjoy, making it a great choice for a comedy film night or a light-hearted viewing experience.
