JEKYLL & HYDE.TOGETHER AGAIN

JEKYLL & HYDE…TOGETHER AGAIN is an outrageous, campy comedy that was originally released in 1982. Directed by Jerry Belson, the film stars Mark Blankfield, Bess Armstrong, and Krista Errickson, among others, who bring their comedic talents to the fore.

Mark Blankfield stars as Dr. Daniel Jekyll, a well-respected and somewhat eccentric surgeon, working at a renowned hospital. Dr. Jekyll is adored by all for his dedication to his work and is heralded as a pioneer in his research. His reputation earns him a prestigious surgery, making waves in the medical fraternity.

However, Dr. Jekyll wants something different for his life. He desires to leave the hospital grind behind and focus on his true passion – researching medicine that could change the landscape of healthcare. His journey from renowned surgeon to an obsessed scientist encapsulates the thematic base of this slapstick comedy.

Parallel to Dr.Jekyll's dream is the omnipresent pressure put on by hospital management. The hospital staff, including the hard-nosed administrator, Dr. Carew, portrayed effectively by Michael McGuire, is desperate for Dr. Jekyll to continue leading their surgical team. Expected to perform a revolutionary surgery, he is the golden boy of the medical fraternity and much-respected figure.

Dr. Jekyll's love interest, Nurse Mary Carew, is brilliantly brought to life by Bess Armstrong. Both Dr. Jekyll and Mary struggle to define their relationship amidst professional commitments. Mary is smitten with Dr. Jekyll's brilliance and dedication to his work, not realizing the extent of his obsessions.

Within this setting, Dr. Jekyll focuses on a substance he believes will eliminate the need for traditional surgical procedures, transforming the medical world. The blend of comedy and the legendary tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde truly kicks off when in his ceaseless effort, Dr. Jekyll inhales the “magical” powder he's developed and transforms into the wild and lascivious Mr. Hyde.

The film's satirical twist is exemplified in the bold and outrageously funny characterization of Mr. Hyde. The fame and respect Dr. Jekyll held in the medical world become non-existent as he uncontrollably transforms into the guitar-strumming, womanizing, fun-loving character of Mr. Hyde.

Mark Blankfield’s performance as the split-personality inflicted Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde provides some of the movie's biggest laughs. His slapstick antics, physical comedy, and sharp one-liners, particularly when he is Mr. Hyde, truly bring the movie to life.

Meanwhile, Krista Errickson plays Hyde's love interest, Ivy Venus, with a delightful mix of flair and humor. Her character adds a laid-back, whimsical charm to the film which contrasts and complements the serious backdrop of the medical industry.

JEKYLL & HYDE…TOGETHER AGAIN incorporates elements of slapstick comedy with the classic tale of split personalities, inverting the horror-filled original into a comic spectacle. The film has its share of wit, charm, and comedic moments driven by engaging performances and situational humor. Though steeped in the dated culture of the 1980s, its humor remains relevant and hilarious to date.

The supporting cast of the film, including Tim Thomerson and Peter Brocco, play their parts with gusto and add more depth and humor to the overall plot.

The movie's brilliance lies in its ability to parody the original horror narrative, turning a terrifying tale of experimentation gone wrong into a delectable comedy. The film successfully explores the realm of medical ethics and scientific obsession while providing a hearty laugh.

The film, with its excellent cast, masterful comedic timing, and risqué humor, allows viewers to experience a fresh and funny interpretation of the classic "Jekyll and Hyde" narrative. Despite the movie's absurd and exaggerated storyline, Mark Blankfield’s stellar performance adds a robust foundation to it, keeping the comedy steady.

Essentially, JEKYLL & HYDE…TOGETHER AGAIN is a comedic phosphorescent take on Robert Louis Stevenson’s “The Strange Case of Dr.Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” - a delightful ride from start to finish and is therefore a must-watch for all fans of dark, satirical comedy, and performances that are larger than life. The comedic and outrageous transformation of a dedicated doctor to a flamboyant, fun rock star makes this film an 80’s classic that just should not be missed.