Bedazzled (2000)
As you dive into the world of film blogging, there are certain things that you discover that you never knew. For example, I never knew that Susan Plushette who plays Annie Hayworth from The Birds (the teacher that dies) is the voice of Zira in The Lion King 2. I never knew that Francis Ford Coppola, famed for The Godfather, also directed another Stale Treat Jack. And I never would have guess that the late great Ghostbuster legend Harold Ramis did the 2000 Bedazzled remake. Add it to the list of things I now know and I love despite its faults.
Bedazzled stars Liz Hurley and Brendan Fraser in a very unlikely movie pairing. It revolves around Elliot, a lovesick nobody who is either treated like crap or is ignored entirely. One evening he meets a mysterious woman who turns out to be the Devil. Offering up seven wishes to Elliot, he immediately goes for the ones that will help him win the affections of his love Allison. But the Devil is a cunning spirit (the name really gives that away.) And every time Elliot makes a wish, it goes hilariously wrong. It’s a hellish romantic comedy.
Why is it Bad?
Even the original Bedazzled isn’t that great. This “comic spin” of Faust is basically as hit and miss as you can get. And in the 2000 remake misses a lot more than hits. When you consider it more, it is basically film is one joke trotted over and over again. Especially as it is ridiculously overdone. Not to mention that Liz Hurley seems to be pretty much there because she is a “hot woman” and pouts her way through the script as much as possible. She is pretty bland and boring as the sinful devil and fails to offer up any charisma when she is supposed to be a sinfully delightful devil.
Why is it Good?
Brendan Fraser will be a regular feature on the Stale Treat list (see: George of the Jungle) but he will probably be the only reason that the film is enjoyable. Here as Elliot he plays many versions of the character quite hilariously. It’s in these segments and performances that are the funniest and absolutely endearing. Plus, there is a message behind all of it that sometimes you win and lose in love and life. And sometimes you are completely selfish. But it’s the selfless moments that will pull you through and help you.
It isn’t a 100% film but neither is it as bad as most people make out. It certainly is enjoyable and will keep you entranced by its comedy. There is some lovely moments, laugh at loud one and certainly will keep you happy if there is nothing else on. While it isn’t as stellar as Ramis’ other work, it is still a great one. In short, Bedazzled (2000) is occasionally funny, very charming and sinfully witty.
It will keep you, ‘bedazzled.’
TTFN
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