Analyze This (1999) Movie Review: A Hilarious Mob Comedy with a Unique Twist
Analyze This (1999), directed by Harold Ramis, is a comedy that offers a fresh and humorous take on the classic mobster genre. The film blends elements of crime drama with comedy, featuring a star-studded cast and a clever premise. Here’s a detailed review of what makes Analyze This a memorable and entertaining film.
Plot Summary: A Mobster in Therapy
Analyze This follows the story of Paul Vitti (played by Robert De Niro), a powerful mob boss who is experiencing a midlife crisis and severe anxiety attacks. Despite his tough exterior and criminal activities, Vitti is plagued by emotional issues that interfere with his ability to lead his criminal empire.
Desperate for help, Vitti turns to Dr. Ben Sobel (played by Billy Crystal), a psychiatrist who is more accustomed to dealing with the everyday woes of his patients than the complex problems of a mob boss. Dr. Sobel is initially reluctant to take on Vitti as a patient, but he is coerced into providing therapy due to the mobster’s insistence and his own professional curiosity.
As Dr. Sobel attempts to help Vitti manage his anxiety and personal issues, he becomes entangled in the world of organized crime, leading to a series of comedic and chaotic situations. The film explores the unlikely friendship that develops between the psychiatrist and the mob boss, as well as the challenges Dr. Sobel faces in balancing his professional ethics with his involvement in the criminal underworld.
Themes: Power, Vulnerability, and Personal Growth
Analyze This explores several themes through its comedic lens:
- Power and Vulnerability: The film examines the contrast between Vitti’s powerful criminal persona and his underlying vulnerability. Despite his criminal success and status, Vitti struggles with anxiety and emotional distress, revealing the human side of his character.
- Personal Growth: The movie highlights the theme of personal growth as Vitti works through his psychological issues and Dr. Sobel navigates the challenges of treating a mob boss. Both characters undergo significant development, learning from each other’s experiences.
- Friendship and Trust: The evolving relationship between Vitti and Dr. Sobel is central to the film. The unlikely friendship that develops between them underscores the importance of trust and support in overcoming personal struggles.
Performances: Charismatic and Hilarious
The cast of Analyze This delivers performances that enhance the film’s comedic and dramatic elements:
- Robert De Niro: As Paul Vitti, De Niro provides a charismatic and comedic portrayal of a mob boss struggling with anxiety. His performance blends his signature tough-guy persona with a vulnerable and humorous side, adding depth to the character.
- Billy Crystal: Crystal shines as Dr. Ben Sobel, offering a charming and relatable portrayal of a psychiatrist caught in an unusual and challenging situation. His comedic timing and chemistry with De Niro drive the film’s humor and emotional moments.
- Supporting Cast: The supporting cast, including Lisa Kudrow, Chazz Palminteri, and Joe Viterelli, contributes to the film’s success with strong performances that complement the main characters and enhance the comedic elements.
Direction and Script: Clever and Engaging
Harold Ramis’s direction creates a clever and engaging comedy by effectively blending elements of crime and humor. His approach to storytelling balances comedic moments with character development, resulting in a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The script, written by Kenneth Lonergan and Peter Tolan, offers a well-crafted blend of comedy and drama. The dialogue is sharp and witty, and the plot developments keep the audience engaged while providing insight into the characters’ personal growth.
Cinematography and Music: Subtle and Supportive
The cinematography of Analyze This enhances the film’s comedic and dramatic elements with its straightforward approach. The visuals support the storytelling without overshadowing the film’s humor and character interactions.
The music, composed by Howard Shore, complements the film’s tone with a score that supports the comedic and emotional moments. The soundtrack adds to the overall experience, enhancing key scenes and contributing to the film’s atmosphere.
Reception and Legacy: A Memorable Mob Comedy
Analyze This has been well-received for its clever blend of comedy and crime drama. The film’s combination of strong performances, witty dialogue, and engaging storytelling has garnered praise from audiences and critics alike.
The success of Analyze This highlights its ability to offer a fresh and entertaining perspective on the mobster genre. The film’s memorable performances and humorous take on serious themes make it a standout entry in both the comedy and crime genres.
Where to Watch Analyze This Online
As of 2024, Analyze This is available for streaming and digital rental/purchase on several platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase.
- Apple TV/iTunes: Available for rent or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & YouTube: Available for rental or purchase in HD.
- Vudu: Offers both rental and purchase options.
Conclusion
Analyze This (1999) is a hilarious and engaging comedy that offers a unique take on the mobster genre. With its charismatic performances, clever script, and effective blend of humor and drama, the film provides a memorable and entertaining experience. Its exploration of power, vulnerability, and personal growth, combined with its comedic elements, makes it a standout entry in both the comedy and crime genres.
