Start the Revolution Without Me

Start the Revolution Without Me is a delightful 1970 historical comedy film directed by Bud Yorkin. Set in 18th century France on the eve of the French Revolution, it stars Gene Wilder, Donald Sutherland, Hugh Griffith, and Jack MacGowran. The movie intricately combines humor and history, serving up an amusing parody that gently parodies the lavishness and quirkiness associated with the time period. The screenplay is filled with intelligent and punchy humor, which was penned by Lawrence J. Cohen and Fred Freeman.

In this unique tale, Gene Wilder and Donald Sutherland play dual roles as they embody two sets of identical twins, separated at birth, set on a collision course due to a bizarre set of circumstances. The lowly Corsican brothers, Claude and Charles Coupe (played by Wilder and Sutherland), were accidently swapped with the aristocratic but decadent twins, Philippe and Pierre de Sisi (also played by Wilder and Sutherland). As adulthood arrives, the doppelgangers unknowingly cross paths, causing chaos in their respective lives and all those around them. The hijinks ensuing from the mistaken identities are a source of lighthearted comedy throughout the film.

Deftly portraying both sets of twins with dynamic comedic flair, Wilder and Sutherland lead an excellent cast, each showing off their extreme versatility and timing. Wilder's charm and comic genius were evident in his earlier film works as well, but in Start the Revolution Without Me, his zany comedy flavor is particularly showcased. He masterfully keeps audiences on their toes as he switches between playing a hapless peasant and a pompous nobleman. Sutherland, too, brings an unexpected comical edge to his characters, displaying flexibility as he transitions between the dual roles of an idealistic revolutionary and a callous aristocrat. The seamless exchanges between the pairs of brothers keep spectators thoroughly engaged, making it one of the movie’s greatest highlights.

Hugh Griffith, playing Louis XVI, deserves a particular mention. His kingly portrayal, besides bursting with humor, also brings out the complexities of the era with color and drama. Jack MacGowran, in the role of a revolutionary, enlightens the plot with his comedic antics, while Billie Whitelaw puts up a commendable performance as the perceptive Marie Antoinette. Unique, witty, and sharp interactions between the characters further enhance the appeal of the storyline.

The film being a parody of the French Revolution, also has fun with re-imagining historical characters. It masterfully fabricates connections between historical happenings and the lives of the mistaken brothers, offering a lighthearted take on history. Director Bud Yorkin utilizes this historical stage to seamlessly weave a comedy plot that is both absurd and entertaining. The filmmakers creatively inject gags and quirks into the narrative, providing a contemporary slapstick approach to historical Hollywood epics.

The visually enchanting costume design and set pieces paint a vibrant picture of the 18th century, resonating with the silliness and extravagance of France's elite during the epoch. Start the Revolution Without Me isn't just historically-themed slapstick comedy, but also a visual treat that successfully immerses the viewers into the era, making the parody all the more effective.

One notable aspect of this film is the opening and closing narration by Orson Welles — revered director and actor. Welles' deep, commanding voice sets the right mood and provides a grandeur touch to this comedy, adding to the movie's overall impact.

Start the Revolution Without Me takes audiences on a unique, comedic journey through a turbulent time in French history. It’s a friendlier, less bloody depiction of a revolution marked by destiny and mistaken identities, simultaneously being an entertaining trip that shows a different, lighter side of the all the tumultuous chaos. Laced with witty, clever humor and memorable performances from its talented cast, this film is a classic comedy that continues to amuse even decades after its release.