Bedazzled

Bedazzled is a bold, thrilling, and visually enchanting British comedy film from 1967, that explores the timeless theme of a 'deal with the devil.' Starring the dynamic comedic duo of Peter Cook and Dudley Moore, the film also features the delightful charm of Eleanor Bron.

Set in the lively backdrop of 1960s London, Bedazzled presents a satirical take on the classic Faustian bargain. Dudley Moore brings to life the character of Stanley Moon, a hapless and desolate short-order cook who is hopelessly in love with Margaret, an attractive waitress portrayed by Eleanor Bron. Stanley, as a hapless yet likeable protagonist, has stolen many hearts through his multi-layered character portrayal. His representation of a man feeding on dreams is endearing, helped along by his impressive comedic timing and emotional delivery.

Peter Cook, on the other hand, plays the wickedly entertaining devil, who goes by the name of George Spigott. He is cool, debonair and wholly irresistible, with a quick wit and humorous charm that only serves to highten his appeal. Appearing in Stanley's life at an opportune moment, he offers our hero seven wishes in return for his soul. It is hard not to enjoy Cook's playful performance of the debonair devil, effortlessly shifting masks from somber to entertaining, while delivering lines with crisp wit and charismatic charm.

Eleanor Bron is a revelation in the role of Margaret, the subject of Stanley's affections. She brings a blend of seductive sensuality and vulnerability that adds a touching depth to her character. Essentially, Stanley's seven wishes are his opportunities to win her love, but with George Spigott as the intermediary, the path to true love is anything but smooth.

Drawing upon the rich traditions of British humor, the script is laden with wit, puns, and sarcasm, which Cook and Moore, longtime comedic collaborators, handle with unquestionable ease. There is an underlying darkness too, as the film essentially explores the idea of giving up one's soul for momentary pleasures. It's a poignant example of a film using comedy as a vehicle to explore key human experiences, contemplations, and desires. By utilizing the comedic prowess of its lead actors, Bedazzled explores the notion of desire, exploring how Stanley's dreams change their shape with each granted wish.

Bedazzled, in many ways, is a showcase for Cook and Moore. Written by the pair, it's shaped by their idiosyncratic comedic style, allowing for great comedic set-pieces and hilarious dialogue. Peter Cook's devil is unlike any other, choosing to delight in minor acts of annoyance rather than grand evil schemes. Dudley Moore's portrayal of everyman Stanley is remarkably convincing, capturing the character's desperation and want in a subtle but effective manner. Together, they form a riotous duo that, coupled with Bron's understated performance, makes the film an unforgettable experience.

The director, Stanley Donen, renowned for his work on Singin' in the Rain and Charade, maneuvers through this unconventional drama with an intuitive understanding of visual humor and satire. His adeptness at managing the comedic pace of the film intertwines perfectly with the tempo created by Cook and Moore's screenwriting brilliance.

Historically and artistically, Bedazzled is a testament to a time when British cinema was at its creative apogee. The film is unafraid to venture into the realms of the outrageous, packing it with memorable dream sequences that leave an indelible imprint on the audience's mind, while utilising its comic grounds to paint a thought-provoking image of humanity's ceaseless desire for more and the implications of the bargains we make to fulfill those desires.

Bedazzled is as engrossingly entertaining today as it was during its initial release, and is a must-watch for fans of British comedy, as well as those enamored with the charisma and humor of Peter Cook and Dudley Moore. Clever, mischievous, and replete with superb performances, Bedazzled is a delightfully wicked comedy about temptation, love, and the lengths to which one may go to achieve their heart's desire -- a cinematic experience not to be missed.