Bedazzled is a 1967 comedy film directed by Stanley Donen, starring Dudley Moore and Peter Cook. The film tells the story of Stanley, a shy and awkward young man who works at a Wimpole Street restaurant in London. Stanley is secretly in love with Margaret, a waitress at the restaurant, but she is already engaged to a muscle-bound bartender named Harry.
Desperate to win her heart, Stanley makes a deal with the devil, played by Peter Cook, who promises to fulfill all of Stanley’s wishes in exchange for his soul. The devil appears in various disguises, such as a grumpy old woman, a horny Scotsman, and a dapper rock star with an accordion.
The film is a classic tale of temptation and redemption, as Stanley learns the hard way that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. Through a series of hilarious misadventures, Stanley discovers that his wishes come with unexpected consequences, such as turning him into a drug-addled pop star or a wealthy businessman with no friends or family.
Despite the devil’s best efforts to corrupt Stanley, he eventually realizes that true happiness cannot be found in material possessions or personal gain. He ultimately chooses to sacrifice his own desires to save Margaret from a terrible fate, earning him a second chance at life and love.
Bedazzled is a classic cult film that has inspired many imitations and parodies over the years, including the 2000 remake starring Brendan Fraser and Elizabeth Hurley. The film features a brilliant screenplay by Peter Cook and Dudley Moore, who were part of the groundbreaking comedy troupe Beyond the Fringe.
The film is also notable for its innovative visual style, using split-screen and other techniques to create surreal and dreamlike sequences. The iconic soundtrack, composed by Dudley Moore, features catchy songs like “Love Me” and “Bedazzled”.
Bedazzled is a timeless classic that has retained its charm and relevance over the years. Its themes of desire, temptation, and redemption resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The film is a testament to the power of humor to convey profound truths about the human condition.
In conclusion, Bedazzled is a masterpiece of comedy and satire that has stood the test of time. It is a must-see film for anyone who appreciates great writing, acting, and direction. With its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and imaginative visuals, Bedazzled is a true gem of the silver screen.