Don't Drink the Water

Don't Drink the Water, released in 1969, is an uproarious comedy film directed by Howard Morris and written by Woody Allen, based on Allen's play of the same name. Starring Jackie Gleason, Estelle Parsons, and Ted Bessell in the lead roles, this movie remains a classic example of comedic storytelling blended with ample political satire.

Gleason plays the character of Walter Hollander, a fun-loving and slightly myopic man, who is traveling with his family to an unnamed Eastern European country behind the Iron Curtain. Gleason masterfully portrays the role, eliciting laughter with his signature deadpan humor and impeccable comic timing. Paired brilliantly with him is Estelle Parsons, portraying his quirky, fretful wife, Marion Hollander. Rounding out the Hollander family is their somewhat naïve daughter, played by Joan Delaney.

The comedy-chaos unfolds when the enthusiastic and curious Hollander family, on an unexpected and eccentric vacation, finds themselves accidentally embroiled in international espionage. A multitude of silly circumstances and mistaken identities lead to them being suspected of spying, which swiftly results in the family taking refuge in the American embassy.

However, their relief is short-lived as they quickly come to understand that the embassy's diplomatic staff is no less eccentric than their circumstances. Bumbling and not-so-diplomatic diplomat Axel Magee, played by Ted Bessell, is a character who evokes as much concern as laughter. It becomes swiftly apparent that the Hollanders might be in more trouble than they initially thought, convening an impression of "out of the frying pan and into the fire."

The rest of the film takes viewers on a quirky journey full of comic misadventures as the Hollanders, aided by Magee, try to escape their increasingly dire situation. Adding more to the humor is Michael Constantine as Krojack, the devoted chef of the embassy, perpetually anguishing over his misunderstood culinary masterpieces. The diverse cast also includes Richard Libertini as Father Drobney, a humorously devout priest pretending to be a defector, living in the embassy for six years and providing a constant source of comic antics.

This political satire, despite the backdrop of Cold War paranoia, exudes a distinctive charm with its clever dialogues, slapstick humor, and sharp comedic scenarios that development throughout the script. The captivating narrative, the spot-on characterizations, and the hilarious set-piece gags are well-echoed in Howard Morris's confident direction and Woody Allen's thoughtful writing, combining to create a robust comedy that ensures a laugh-out-loud experience for audiences.

Jackie Gleason's riveting screen presence is a standout feature of the film. His syrupy voice, buoyant body language, and an uncanny ability to deliver one-lining zingers keep viewers tickled throughout the plot. In contrast, Estelle Parsons' portrayal of a nervous and somewhat neurotic Marion Hollander offers a perfect foil, which elevates the chaotic humor to another level.

The film's title, "Don't Drink the Water," works on a metaphorical level, suggesting the lurking dangers in unfamiliar territories, contributing to the overall comic frenzy that ensues from misunderstanding a foreign land and its culture.

Although set against the backdrop of a political crisis, the movie never loses its primary essence, i.e., uproarious humor and light-hearted fun. It skilfully dodges the potential heaviness of political themes and instead presents a farce that keeps viewers giggling at the characters' constant blunders and poorly timed misfortunes.

In conclusion, Don't Drink the Water is a comedy gem of the 1960s that delivers sharp wit and uncontrollable laughter. Its stellar cast, led by a memorable performance by Jackie Gleason, and remarkable scripting by Woody Allen, make it a noteworthy film in the genre of comedy. Whether you're a history buff, a fan of comedies, or someone who appreciates good cinema, this movie is well worth a watch.