Review of The Fisher King (1991) by Lucas B — 20 Feb 2011

I have seen the critic reviews on this site and am saddened to see the professionals seem to have watched this movie with the regard that it is a simple, goofball comedy - and moments it is - but ultimately, it is not. I cannot explain too much the depth of the writing of the film, without removing some of its mystery, payoff and power, but I implore any to watch or re-watch with a more open perspective. I will say there is allegory and symbolism to seek, if that helps at all.

The performances are wonderful, and I am grateful that these were not overlooked other than Bridges' whose character is more subtle than Williams', hence why he was overlooked by the Academy, perhaps. The look of the film makes of Manhattan a dark and dilapidated state, as with the state of the characters in the film.

The romance in this movie is so unusually clunky and sincere, that is goofy and refreshing, perhaps like real life. I have been torn at times, wondering if the film demanded a darker ending, but ultimately I find the film's message about mental illness, loss and homelessness serves us better with the ending it gives us. This is one of the best and most ingenious films of the 90s. Please look beyond Williams's character's wackiness, to see this. Thank you.