Once Upon a Scoundrel

Once Upon a Scoundrel is a comedy film directed by George Schaefer first released in 1973. The film boasts several declared stars of the time, most relatably Zero Mostel, the brilliant versatile actor known for his superb performances in both comedy and drama, he reunites with George Schaefer after their successful partnership in Rhinoceros. Alongside him, there is the prodigious Katy Jurado, the first Mexican national to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, and the young A Martinez who later emerged as a recognized face in American television soap operas.

Set in the early 20th century, the film plays out its enchanting narrative in a quaint small town in Mexico. The central character, played by the imitable Zero Mostel, is Don Lucas. He is a rich landowner, pretty much the object of both envy and disdain in his little community. Unlike the traditional aristocrats, Don Lucas is portrayed as a mischievous rogue who complements his insatiable greed with a wicked sense of humor. Don Lucas has a tainted reputation for inappropriately foreclosing his tenants' properties. Love him or hate him; the town's folk cannot ignore this manipulative charmer.

The Mexican actress Katy Jurado plays Senora Otero, a powerful matriarch who, despite the era’s gender constraints, emerges as a strong and influential figure in this small societal microcosm. In contrast, A Martinez portrays a youthful helper Juan, who is the polar opposite to Don Lucas, characterized by humility, compassion, and a deep sense of righteousness. Juan's character brings warmth and relatability to the story, calming the tempestuous waves created by Mostel's audacious character.

The intrigue of the film thickens when Don Lucas' conniving stunts backfire, driving him towards dire predicaments. The story takes an unanticipated turn, giving rise to a series of comical situations that keep the audience glued to their seats and giggling at the same time. The unquestionable crux of the narrative is Mostel's quirky performance as he attempts to escape the consequences of his deceitful actions. In witnessing his transformation from a loathed individual to a sympathetic character, audiences are treated to a harmonious blend of drama, laughter, and introspection.

Katy Jurado perfectly complements the plot with her multilayered performance. Her character's fiery determination and unflinching will strike a stark difference from the conniving cowardice displayed by Don Lucas. Meanwhile, Martinez's character provides an emotional anchor and serves as the moral compass throughout these comedic entanglements.

Furthermore, Once Upon a Scoundrel beautifully captures the local cultural aura of Mexico. The production and costume design, with a keen eye for historic accuracy, weave authenticity into the film's visual storytelling. The language – laid back, humorous, and peppered with tongue-in-cheek comments – gives further depth to an already engaging narrative. The cinematography also deserves special mention as it successfully portrays the rustic charm and enchanting landscape of Mexico in brilliant detail.

George Schaefer, the director of this film, does a commendable job of narrating a comedy of errors in a compelling manner. The dramatic unveiling of the story, coupled with glimpses of witty dialogue and well-timed humor, makes the film a valuable addition to the comedy genre. Schaefer puts forth a delightful and humorous tale of greed, deceit, redemption, and love, all tangled within a landscape of bucolic life.

In conclusion, Once Upon a Scoundrel is a vibrant and compelling comedy film that showcases the remarkable performance range of its actors. With its engrossing plot, layered characters, and touches of satire, the film deftly portrays the convoluted yet fascinating aspects of human behavior. It manages to make you chuckle, ponder, and ultimately appreciate the interconnected nature of greed, revenge, and redemption, making it a must-watch for all comedy-drama enthusiasts.