Although Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is one of those popular mainstream comedies, it’s just so good that I can’t help recommending it. Funny, classy, and with perfect pacing, it will definitely make you laugh. After several decades it’s starting to drop off the radar, so Subversive Rabbit is here to right that wrong. You can watch it every couple of years and still have a blast. Directed by almighty Frank Oz, again we are treated to fully developed characters and their shenanigans. I still remember the whipping scene, after all these years. In vein with A Fish Called Wanda, Without a Clue, and Fierce Creatures.
Excellent cast with a brilliant script could not have done better. And speaking of the cast, this movie could have been something entirely else. The film was originally a project for Mick Jagger and David Bowie, but they luckily dropped out. Movies about conmen never go out of fashion and while most of them tend to stick to the casual thriller vibe, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels went for the full-blown comedy style. And with two great actors at the height of their careers, they’ve hit the jackpot. The setting is also great, helping you lose yourself in the beauty of French Côte d’Azur. In the eighties mind you.
The story revolves around two conmen who seduce women and then elegantly take their money. As you expected, Michael Caine is a smooth and sophisticated conman who elegantly achieves his goals and Steve Martin is a small-time hustler that uses more primitive methods. Later on, these two will be linked by a bet that will teach them an important lesson. Although they are doing all kinds of shit, you will come to like both of them, and the answer to the question why, you will find when you check out this classic.
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a stylish and easygoing comedy, something you can watch with your parents or kids, a definition of a timeless classic. Especially with its theme of conman, rich ladies and high society mingling, it’s perfect for any occasion. Additionally, it’s got this air of authenticity despite the silly action. I mean, you simply know that there are dozens and dozens of scammers doing the same thing as Freddy and Lawrence right now.
Director: Frank Oz
Writers: Dale Launer, Stanley Shapiro, Paul Henning
Cast: Steve Martin, Michael Caine, Glenne Headly, Ian McDiarmid, Dana Ivey, Dana Ivey
Fun Stuff: This film is actually a remake of the comedy Bedtime Story (1964).
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IMDb Link: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095031/
