The Plot of Bedazzled
“Bedazzled” is a 2000 comedy film directed by Harold Ramis, starring Brendan Fraser and Elizabeth Hurley. The story revolves around Elliot Richards (Fraser), a lonely and socially awkward computer programmer who is madly in love with his co-worker, Alison Gardner (played by Frances O’Connor). Frustrated with his mundane life and unsuccessful attempts to win Alison’s heart, Elliot makes a desperate deal with the devil herself, known as the seductive and cunning Lucifer (played by Hurley).
Lucifer offers Elliot seven wishes, promising to fulfill his deepest desires in exchange for his soul. Excited about the opportunity to transform his life, Elliot enthusiastically accepts the deal without fully comprehending the consequences. Each wish Elliot makes brings him a step closer to his dreams coming true, but with a twist. Lucifer skillfully manipulates the wishes to serve her own agenda, taking pleasure in tormenting Elliot along the way.
Throughout the film, Elliot’s wishes lead to an array of hilarious and fantastical scenarios. From being a wealthy, powerful businessman to a talented and charismatic rock star, Elliot experiences various versions of his life. However, each wish unravels in unforeseen ways, revealing the emptiness and superficiality of his desires.
As Elliot progresses through his wishes, he begins to question the true nature of his happiness and the price he is willing to pay for it. Along the way, he realizes that the key to fulfillment lies not in the external trappings of success, but in embracing who he truly is and appreciating the genuine connections he shares with others, specifically Alison.
As the story reaches its climax, Elliot must confront Lucifer and ultimately make a decision that will determine not only his own fate but also the fate of those he cares about. Will he choose power and material wealth or will he opt for love and authenticity?
“Bedazzled” is a witty and thought-provoking film that explores themes of self-discovery, personal fulfillment, and the consequences of misguided desires. With its clever dialogue, delightful performances, and unexpected twists, the movie offers a fresh and humorous take on the age-old tale of making deals with the devil.
Cast and Characters
“Bedazzled” features a talented cast that brings the characters to life with their performances. The main cast includes:
- Brendan Fraser as Elliot Richards: Fraser portrays the socially awkward computer programmer who makes a deal with the devil in the hopes of winning the heart of his co-worker, Alison. He showcases his comedic timing and versatility as he navigates through various wish-based scenarios.
- Elizabeth Hurley as Lucifer: Hurley mesmerizes as the devil herself, Lucifer. With her seductive charm and manipulative nature, she tempts and toys with Elliot, providing him with the seven wishes in exchange for his soul.
- Frances O’Connor as Alison Gardner: O’Connor plays the object of Elliot’s affection, Alison. She is the elusive co-worker whom Elliot pines after in his quest for love and happiness. O’Connor’s performance adds depth and vulnerability to the character.
- Orlando Jones as Daniel/Danny: Jones takes on the role of various characters throughout the film, serving as both a comedic sidekick and a confidant to Elliot. His versatile acting skills shine as he brings different personalities to life.
- Paul Adelstein as Bob: Adelstein brings energy and charisma to the character of Bob, a co-worker and romantic interest for Alison. He adds a touch of rivalry to the storyline as Elliot tries to win Alison’s heart away from Bob.
The chemistry between the cast members is evident on screen, as they deliver comedic timing and emotional depth to their respective roles. They bring the characters to life in a way that captivates the audience and enhances the overall viewing experience.
In addition to the main cast, “Bedazzled” also features notable performances from Toby Huss as Jerry, Gabriel Casseus as Elliot’s basketball-playing alter ego, and Brian Doyle-Murray as Father Martin. Each actor contributes to the film’s humor and charm, making the characters memorable and entertaining.
The ensemble cast of “Bedazzled” is a perfect blend of talent and versatility, bringing the unique personalities of each character to the forefront and adding depth to the narrative.
Where to Watch Bedazzled
If you’re eager to watch the hilarious and enchanting film “Bedazzled,” you’re in luck! There are several easy and convenient options available for viewing this classic comedy.
First and foremost, you can check popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+. These platforms often update their libraries with a wide range of movies, and “Bedazzled” may be available for streaming on one or more of these platforms. It’s always a good idea to search for the title using the platform’s search function to see if it is currently available.
If you prefer physical copies of movies, you can look for “Bedazzled” on DVD or Blu-ray. Online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Best Buy typically offer a variety of options when it comes to purchasing movies. You might find a collector’s edition or a special edition DVD with bonus content, adding to your viewing experience and making it a worthwhile addition to your movie collection.
Another avenue to explore is rental services. Websites like Redbox and local video rental stores often have a selection of movies available for rental. While the availability of “Bedazzled” may vary, it’s worth checking these options if you’re eager to watch the film without committing to a purchase.
If you prefer the big screen experience, keep an eye out for when “Bedazzled” is being shown at revival cinemas or special events. These screenings offer an opportunity to enjoy the film on a larger scale and connect with fellow movie enthusiasts who share your appreciation for this comedic gem.
In summary, “Bedazzled” can be enjoyed through various channels, including streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, physical copies on DVD or Blu-ray, rental services like Redbox, and special screenings at theaters and events. With the availability of these options, you can easily access and relish in the humor and charm of this beloved comedy.
Film Reviews and Critiques
“Bedazzled” received mixed reviews from critics upon its release in 2000. While some praised the comedic performances and clever twist on the classic tale, others found the film lacking in depth and originality.
One aspect of the film that garnered praise was the performances of Brendan Fraser and Elizabeth Hurley. Fraser’s portrayal of the lovable but naive Elliot was seen as endearing and relatable, while Hurley’s sultry and mischievous portrayal of Lucifer added a sense of allure and charm to the film. Their on-screen chemistry was often cited as one of the highlights of “Bedazzled.”
The comedic elements of the film were a point of praise for many critics. The witty dialogue and physical comedy were seen as enjoyable and provided numerous laugh-out-loud moments. The creative and imaginative wish scenarios that Elliot experiences also added an element of surprise and entertainment to the story.
However, some critics felt that the film lacked depth and failed to deliver a truly original take on the source material. They felt that the story became repetitive, with each wish leading to a similar outcome and lesson for Elliot to learn. Additionally, the character development was seen as shallow, leaving the audience disconnected from the emotional journey of the protagonist.
Despite the mixed reception from critics, “Bedazzled” found success with audiences who appreciated its lighthearted and comedic approach. The film became a cult favorite over the years, gaining a dedicated following that continues to enjoy its humor and charm.
Ultimately, whether you enjoy “Bedazzled” or not may depend on your personal taste in comedy and your willingness to suspend disbelief for the fantastical elements of the story. It remains a film that has entertained audiences with its clever humor and delightful performances, even if its critical reception was not unanimously positive.
Similar Movies to Watch
If you enjoyed the comedic and fantastical elements of “Bedazzled,” you may be interested in exploring other films that share similar themes and styles. Here are a few recommendations for movies that deliver a mix of comedy, fantasy, and thought-provoking storytelling.
- Groundhog Day (1993): This classic comedy, starring Bill Murray, follows the story of a weatherman who finds himself trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again. Like “Bedazzled,” it explores personal transformation and the pursuit of happiness in a humorous and philosophical way.
- Click (2006): Adam Sandler stars in this comedy-drama about a man who receives a magical remote control that allows him to fast forward and rewind through different parts of his life. It delves into similar themes of appreciating the present moment and understanding the consequences of our choices.
- Big (1988): Tom Hanks stars as a young boy who makes a wish to be “big” and wakes up to find himself in the body of an adult. This comedy-drama explores the power of imagination, the joys and challenges of adulthood, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
- Liar Liar (1997): Jim Carrey delivers a hilarious performance as a lawyer who is suddenly unable to lie for an entire day, leading to comedic and often awkward situations. Like “Bedazzled,” it combines comedy and self-discovery, with memorable moments that will have you laughing out loud.
- The Truman Show (1998): This satirical drama, starring Jim Carrey, tells the story of Truman Burbank, a man who unknowingly lives his entire life as the star of a reality TV show. It challenges the notion of reality, personal freedom, and the search for authenticity in an increasingly artificial world.
These movies, like “Bedazzled,” offer a mix of comedy and introspection, exploring themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness. They are sure to entertain and leave you with food for thought long after the credits roll.
Interesting Trivia about Bedazzled
“Bedazzled” is a film that has captivated audiences with its clever humor and fantastical storyline. Here are some fascinating trivia facts about the movie that you may not know:
- The film is a remake of the 1967 British comedy of the same name, which starred Dudley Moore and Peter Cook. While the original film follows a similar premise, the 2000 adaptation adds its own unique twists and modern updates.
- Elizabeth Hurley not only portrayed Lucifer in the film but also served as a producer. She played a key role in the casting process and had significant input in shaping her character, bringing her own flair and charm to the role.
- The movie features seven different versions of Elliot’s wishes, each offering a glimpse into alternate realities. These scenarios include Elliot as a Colombian drug lord, a sensitive poet, a successful basketball player, and even a female version of himself.
- The iconic red dress worn by Elizabeth Hurley in the film gained significant attention and became an iconic element of her character’s look. The dress was designed by Italian fashion designer Donatella Versace, further adding to the glamour and allure of the character.
- To portray the multiple versions of Elliot, Brendan Fraser worked with various hairstylists and prosthetics teams to create distinct looks for each character. The transformations showcased Fraser’s versatility and added an extra layer of comedy to the film.
- The screenplay for “Bedazzled” was written by Larry Gelbart, Harold Ramis, and Peter Tolan. Gelbart, known for his work on acclaimed television shows like “M*A*S*H,” brought his comedic expertise to the script, contributing to the film’s clever dialogue and comedic timing.
- The film incorporates numerous references to popular culture and literature. From nods to “The Twilight Zone” to allusions to Alexander Pope’s poem “The Rape of the Lock,” “Bedazzled” offers subtle Easter eggs for astute viewers to discover and appreciate.
These tidbits of trivia add an extra layer of appreciation for the cleverness and attention to detail that went into the making of “Bedazzled.” They showcase the collaborative efforts of the cast and crew to create a memorable comedy that delights audiences with its humor and imaginative storytelling.
Quotes from Bedazzled
“Bedazzled” is filled with witty and memorable lines that perfectly capture the humor and charm of the film. Here are some notable quotes that have become fan favorites:
- “I’m not a greedy person. I just want my partner to be intelligent, sensitive, caring, and super-hot.” – Elliot Richards
- “The mind is its own place, and in itself, can make a heaven of hell and a hell of heaven.” – Lucifer
- “I never lost my temper over anything. It was clerical errors that led to Martina Navratilova being listed as my next of kin.” – Elliot Richards
- “You know, I can’t believe you’re still trying. You must have more stubble than Elmo!” – Lucifer
- “I’m Cassandra. Let’s just say I see things before they happen.” – Elliot Richards
- “Comfortable? Comfortable? What AM I doing? It’s my day off!” – Elliot Richards
- “Nobody ever loved me that much. You know, there’s always some… problem or something that they find, and with your checklist, I’m sure you’re gonna find one, too. So why don’t you just skip it and this time, let me love you without twisting me into something that’s not understand…” – Elliot Richards
- “You’ve got to keep strong. Expand the enterprise. You know, like Star Trek.” – Daniel/Danny
- “Oh, by the way, thanks for the phone call yesterday. I’ll be making lower-back love to my chiropractor for months.” – Elliot Richards
- “Funny, isn’t it? I’ve never been able to touch you, but you’ve given me more pleasure than anyone I’ve ever known.” – Lucifer
These quotes showcase the clever writing and memorable characters that make “Bedazzled” such an enjoyable film. They highlight the comedic moments and the unique dynamics between the characters, adding to the overall charm of the movie.
