Woody Allen and company provide nearly non-stop laughs in this hilarious TV-movie version of his play, "Don't Drink the Water," done in 1994. Allen plays Walter Hollander, a New Jersey caterer who is accused of being a spy and seeks asylum in the local American embassy with his wife (Julie Kavner) and daughter (Mayim Bialik). The embassy already houses a priest (Dom Deluise) who, in the six years of domicile, has been practicing magic tricks. He doesn't have the hang of any of them yet. Also, the embassy is expecting a visit from an emir who shows up with attendants and 12 wives. The ambassador (Josef Summer) is in Washington and has left the place in the non-capable hands of his son (Michael J. Fox) who, when he took over the Brazilian embassy, had them importing coffee. Edward Herrmann is the assistant, Kilroy. After a nasty bang on the head, he thinks he's both Wright Brothers. There are state police and soon protesters outside. It's a set-up for disaster.
Everyone is fabulous in this chaotic film, and there are plenty of bits besides the failed magic tricks that provide laughs aplenty. One of the funniest occurs when Allen demands real food like boiled chicken, and the chef announces he's serving rabbit. He's holding the priest's rabbit that he uses for his magic tricks, and a chase ensues. Kavner as Marion is a riot as she irons, vacuums, and spars with Allen, who is in top form. When Allen announces he can't wear silk because it aggravates his skin - he has the thighs of a princess, according to his doctor - it's priceless.
I highly recommend this movie for people who just want to be entertained and laugh their heads off. It's not deep, it's not relevant, it's not vulgar, it's the kind of comedy that used to be done - crazy, funny, with great characters. Good for what ails you.
Everyone is fabulous in this chaotic film, and there are plenty of bits besides the failed magic tricks that provide laughs aplenty. One of the funniest occurs when Allen demands real food like boiled chicken, and the chef announces he's serving rabbit. He's holding the priest's rabbit that he uses for his magic tricks, and a chase ensues. Kavner as Marion is a riot as she irons, vacuums, and spars with Allen, who is in top form. When Allen announces he can't wear silk because it aggravates his skin - he has the thighs of a princess, according to his doctor - it's priceless.
I highly recommend this movie for people who just want to be entertained and laugh their heads off. It's not deep, it's not relevant, it's not vulgar, it's the kind of comedy that used to be done - crazy, funny, with great characters. Good for what ails you.