Year: 1988
Directed By: Frank Oz
Written By: Dale Launer, Stanley Shapiro, and Paul Henning
RYAN’S REVIEW
I mentioned in my review of Criminal that I usually enjoy movies about con men and that is especially true for this film. I wouldn’t say that I loved this film or that I think it is awesome, but nevertheless there is a lot to like about it and it’s always fun to watch. I wouldn’t call this film exceptional by any means but sporting the duo of Steve Martin and Michael Caine makes it something special. Throw in the fact that it was directed by Yoda and you have something that is easily worth your time.
The part of Yoda in the Star Wars films was played by Frank Oz. Oz has also been known to direct films of his own from time to time and has made some really good movies. This movie, as well as What About Bob?, are really good examples of his work. I am not sure why Steve Martin has not been able to transition his talents with the times but it seems now that all his best work is long behind him. He is the center of so many great comedies throughout the 80s and early 90s but has had such a struggle making hits in his later years. Michael Caine is the complete opposite however, seemingly getting better with each film that he makes of late. Caine is like a bottle of fine wine, not only does he get better the older he gets but he makes every movie he is involved with better. Caine carries an air of dignity and class with him that he is able to put on display in all the films he is part of. He has the good fortune of being a favorite of director Christopher Nolan currently and can be seen in many of his films. Nolan is possibly the greatest director currently out there so getting a definite role in all of his films is quite the accomplishment.
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a timeless comedy, it will be fun and funny for as long as people continue watching it. These kind of con artists will undoubtedly always be part of our society and they will always spark the curiosity of movie goers when films center on them. This is a comedy so we can enjoy the antics of these men without having to deal with the dramatic consequences these people bestow upon their victims. I think both Caine and Martin are outstanding in the film and Frank Oz comedies are usually quite fun. I always enjoy watching this movie and I think it is definitely worth your time.
AMBER’S REVIEW
I love Steve Martin. I think he is one of the funniest people I have grown up watching. I like this film as well. You get to see a younger Michael Caine, which is awesome considering most people our age know him, but can only remember him looking like an older man. This film is a silly movie about con men. It isn’t an academy award winner and it won’t have you peeing in your pants laughing, but it is definitely worth your time and is a good movie.
NEXT MOVIE: Donnie Brasco (1997)
The Movie Snobs 