The Fisher King (1991)

 

If you ever need to see what it would be like if magical realism fanatic Terry Gilliam is let loose on a fairly realistic story of love, loss and coping mechanisms, then look no further than this one. It has some of the trappings that are quintessential Gilliam, but when backed up by solid performances all across the board for a story that is mostly tragic yet with hope shining through you could do a lot worse. 

Jeff Bridges plays Jack Lucas, a radio DJ who has a very succesful show, but who is also an absolute and utter prick. I mean, egocentric doesn't even begin to describe him. And yes, it might be hinted at that this is a coping mechanism because he feels worthless inside: he is still a grade A douchebag. Mostly life is hunky-dory, but when he tells a listener that certain people need to be disposed of and that person takes the literal appraoch and shoots up a fancy diner, Lucas falls down into depression and verges on becoming an alcoholic. Heck, three years later and he is in a sort of relationship with Anne who owns a videostore and while she clearly loves him and he would be nothing without her, Jack remains a douchebag. 

Then one night when he is about to be beaten up by annoying kids, a couple of homeless people come to his rescue. Led by Parry, who sees Jack as his saviour in order to help find the Holy Grail, Jack is brought to his senses. He obviously realizes that Parry has had a serious mental breakdown, but lets it slide. But then Jack learns that Parry is actually someone else whose wife was shot in the incident that Jack caused. This makes Jack think twice and gradually try to help Parry in order to redeem himself somewhat.

But Jack is still a douchebag and will stumble along the way... 

If you need some Gilliam tropes: Dutch tilts, askew angles and a fanciful Red Knight are clear indications who is behind the wheel. But other than that this is a surprisingly heartwarming drama about redemption and salvation of sorts. It's good that they don't suddenly make Jack all nice and sympathetic, because he isn't. He does become a better version of himself by the end, though. This film is carried by the excellent pairing of Jeff Bridges and Robin Williams, who play wonderfully off of one another. Williams was always excellent, but Bridges playing against type and being a prick surprisingly works. 

But you know who is really the heart of this film? Mercedes Ruehl as Anne. She is absolutely wonderful and you'd almost wish she had a bigger part to play. She is thàt good.

The drama is present, but don't be fooled into thinking this is all extremely heavy stuff. Yes, there is some of that, but it is balanced nicely by some dreamlike sequences and some refreshing comedic spots (but not actual jokey jokes). This film does once again prove why Robin Williams was so bloody great. 

You're still missed, good sir. 

So if you are in need of drama with a twist and some literary influences that don't weigh too heavily on the story, this might actually be your thing.