#1
Posted: 3/22/06 at 4:07pm
I watched this exquisite film the other night and, while I know many critics and audiences ignored it in its initial release, I think it warrants reevaluation and respect.
Chris Elliot, as underrated a comic genius as I've ever seen, stars as a spoiled 'fancy lad' who, after a series of hijinks that are as clever and original as they are hysterical, finds himself looking for a way home on a boat populated with scurvy sailors. Along the way he finds far more than a way home, he finds his heart and soul.
It's a rollicking comedy, a high seas adventure and a multi-pronged love story all in one. Few movies aspire to cover so many genres at once, let alone handle them all so deftly. Of particular poignance is Russ Tamblyn as Chockie, the merman who loves Elliot's character. Rarely in comedic history will you find a relationship so deep and moving.
I also think that Ritch Brinkley, James Gammons, Brian Doyle Murray and Brion James provide some of the finest comedic ensemble acting ever preserved in celluloid as the sailors who accidentally take in a stray cabin boy. Gruff yet touching these men give a clinic in performing comedy with heart.
Melora Williams is enchanting as Elliot's love interest, both bold and beautiful as her characters melts, much like icebergs do, as Elliot's character grows from lad to man. She should have been considered for an Oscar for her work.
Watchful eyes will also detect green but still obviously talented stars like Andy Richter and Dave Letterman in supporting roles where they both shine.
I think the Academy waited three years too many in honoring a movie about a boy, a girl, a boat and their encounter with a fateful iceberg that threatens to tear them apart.
Chris Elliot, as underrated a comic genius as I've ever seen, stars as a spoiled 'fancy lad' who, after a series of hijinks that are as clever and original as they are hysterical, finds himself looking for a way home on a boat populated with scurvy sailors. Along the way he finds far more than a way home, he finds his heart and soul.
It's a rollicking comedy, a high seas adventure and a multi-pronged love story all in one. Few movies aspire to cover so many genres at once, let alone handle them all so deftly. Of particular poignance is Russ Tamblyn as Chockie, the merman who loves Elliot's character. Rarely in comedic history will you find a relationship so deep and moving.
I also think that Ritch Brinkley, James Gammons, Brian Doyle Murray and Brion James provide some of the finest comedic ensemble acting ever preserved in celluloid as the sailors who accidentally take in a stray cabin boy. Gruff yet touching these men give a clinic in performing comedy with heart.
Melora Williams is enchanting as Elliot's love interest, both bold and beautiful as her characters melts, much like icebergs do, as Elliot's character grows from lad to man. She should have been considered for an Oscar for her work.
Watchful eyes will also detect green but still obviously talented stars like Andy Richter and Dave Letterman in supporting roles where they both shine.
I think the Academy waited three years too many in honoring a movie about a boy, a girl, a boat and their encounter with a fateful iceberg that threatens to tear them apart.
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