Fierce Creatures (1997) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Fierce Creatures, directed by Fred Schepisi, is a British comedy film that serves as a spiritual successor to the cult classic A Fish Called Wanda. Released in 1997, this film re-teams the legendary comic quartet of John Cleese, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kevin Kline, and Michael Palin, bringing together a delightful blend of wit, humor, and an eccentric storyline set in the quirky world of a struggling zoo.
In this review, we will explore the film’s plot, character dynamics, critical reception, and where to watch Fierce Creatures online.
Plot Overview of Fierce Creatures (1997)
The story revolves around the fictional Cricklewood Zoo, which is in dire financial trouble and facing the possibility of being shut down. In an effort to revitalize the zoo, the new owner, Rodney (Kevin Kline), introduces a radical new policy: every animal must be fierce in order to attract more visitors. This leads to a series of hilarious attempts to transform the zoo’s animals into more menacing versions of themselves.
The plot thickens when Wanda (Jamie Lee Curtis), who has a romantic history with Rex (John Cleese), is caught in a love triangle with Rodney, who is also interested in her. Meanwhile, Basil (Michael Palin), a bumbling zookeeper, tries to manage the chaos that ensues as the staff grapples with Rodney’s peculiar vision for the zoo.
The film combines elements of farce, romance, and comedy, making it an engaging watch for fans of British humor.
Character Dynamics and Performances
Fierce Creatures features a talented ensemble cast that brings the characters to life:
- Rex (John Cleese): Cleese shines as the pompous yet lovable zookeeper, whose attempts to impress Wanda lead to a series of comedic mishaps. His signature comedic timing and delivery are on full display, making Rex an endearing character.
- Wanda (Jamie Lee Curtis): Curtis delivers a charming performance as Wanda, balancing her romantic interests with her pragmatic approach to managing the zoo. Her chemistry with both Kline and Cleese adds layers to the film’s romantic subplot.
- Rodney (Kevin Kline): Kline’s portrayal of the eccentric Rodney is both funny and unpredictable. His character’s misguided attempts to revamp the zoo create some of the film’s most memorable moments.
- Basil (Michael Palin): Palin’s comedic chops shine as the well-meaning but inept zookeeper. His interactions with the animals and the chaos surrounding the zoo provide a delightful comic relief.
Visuals and Direction
Fred Schepisi’s direction successfully captures the quirky essence of the story, balancing the film’s comedic elements with its charming settings. The cinematography showcases the zoo and its inhabitants, emphasizing the absurdity of the situations while also providing a whimsical backdrop for the unfolding chaos.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, Fierce Creatures received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its humor and the performances of the lead cast, others felt it didn’t quite reach the heights of its predecessor, A Fish Called Wanda. Nevertheless, the film has garnered a loyal following over the years, appreciated for its lightheartedness and charm.
Where to Watch Fierce Creatures (1997) Online
If you’re interested in watching Fierce Creatures, here are the platforms where the movie is available for streaming, rental, or purchase in the U.S.:
1. Amazon Prime Video (Rental/Purchase)
- Availability: United States and internationally.
- Pricing: Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $9.99.
- Quality: Available in HD.
You can rent or buy Fierce Creatures on Amazon Prime Video.
2. iTunes/Apple TV (Rental/Purchase)
- Availability: United States, Canada, and other regions.
- Pricing: Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $9.99.
- Quality: HD available.
The film is available for rent or purchase through iTunes or Apple TV.
3. Google Play Movies (Rental/Purchase)
- Availability: United States and internationally.
- Pricing: Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $9.99.
- Quality: HD available.
Google Play Movies offers Fierce Creatures for rental and purchase options.
4. Vudu (Rental/Purchase)
- Availability: United States.
- Pricing: Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
- Quality: Available in HD.
Vudu also provides the film for rental and purchase.
Why Fierce Creatures Is Worth Watching
Fierce Creatures offers a delightful mix of humor, romance, and eccentricity that will appeal to fans of British comedy. The film’s clever writing and the strong performances from its ensemble cast make it an enjoyable watch. It successfully combines absurdity with heartfelt moments, creating a whimsical experience that is both entertaining and engaging.
Conclusion: Is Fierce Creatures Worth Watching?
If you’re in the mood for a light-hearted comedy filled with witty banter and delightful characters, Fierce Creatures (1997) is worth a watch. With its unique premise, engaging performances, and charming humor, the film provides a delightful escape into a world of chaos and creativity. Available for streaming and rental on various platforms, it’s easy to enjoy this fun-filled romp.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Fierce Creatures available on Netflix?
A: As of now, Fierce Creatures is not available on Netflix but can be streamed or rented on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.
Q: Can I watch Fierce Creatures for free?
A: The film is not available for free streaming; a rental or purchase is required through various platforms.
Q: Is Fierce Creatures suitable for children?
A: Fierce Creatures is rated PG-13 for some crude humor and language. Viewer discretion is advised, and it may not be suitable for younger audiences.
