The Big Mouth

The Big Mouth is a classic comedy film from 1967 that features the hilariously eccentric brilliance of talented comedian Jerry Lewis. The movie also stars respected talents such as Harold J. Stone and Susan Bay Nimoy. Known for its situational comedy and unpredictable twists, The Big Mouth sticks to the comedic roots that Lewis fans love and appreciate, all while introducing elements of mystery and action to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

The Big Mouth, directed by Jerry Lewis himself, begins with the protagonist Gerald Clamson, a mild-mannered, tax auditor, played masterfully by Lewis. Gerald sets out on a seemingly innocent fishing vacation, which quickly turns into an unexpected, thrilling adventure. An accidental encounter happens when a dying, hunted man who surprisingly looks just like him, Syd Valentine, surfaces from the water.

In possession of a valuable gem collection, Valentine entrusts Gerald with the task of locating and safeguarding it from his pursuers. The plot unfolds as Gerald gets entangled in a double identity crisis. He’s chased by the criminal gang that is after Valentine and the gems, stirring the plot into an exciting game of cat and mouse.

Lewis, known for his physical comedy and slapstick humor, does not back down from including these elements in his direction of The Big Mouth. Gerald's identical resemblance to the hunted criminal lands him into intriguing misadventures that engulf his world into chaos, all while providing a hearty dose of comedy.

Harold J. Stone delivers an engaging performance as Thor, the menacing bad guy in the pursuit of the priceless gemstones. As the primary antagonist, Stone brings a delightful balance of humor and menace, making his character both a formidable force and a source of laughter. The intertwining of these two dimensions makes The Big Mouth a captivating cinematic experience.

Female lead Susan Bay Nimoy brings in a refreshing romantic angle to the movie as Suzie Cartwright. While she originally appears to be Gerald's love interest, her role becomes increasingly intricate as the narrative unfolds. Her multi-dimensional character is both charming and ambiguous, adding a perfect blend of suspense and allure to the plot.

Despite the danger and constant pursuit, Gerald stays committed to his quest, in no small part due to his growing romantic affection for Suzie. Lewis, in line with his signature style, uses humor as a coping mechanism, ensuring that the dilemmas and suspenseful moments are also belly-laugh inducing.

The Big Mouth is not just about chaotic chases and comic encounters. It exhibits artful direction and uses the comedy genre to succinctly comment on everyday life situations. More so, the way Lewis manages to navigate the story, all while infusing his unique humor style, is commendable. Several scenes contain infectious energy that assists in maintaining a steady pacing throughout the film.

Adding to the overall appeal of the movie is the brilliant cinematography that captures the element of thrill consistently while maintaining the comedic tone. The foregrounding of the 1960s societal context gives the film an authentic look and feel that further emphasizes the cinematic experience. At the same time, the soundtrack complements every scene and enriches the narrative.

Besides the notable performances of the lead characters, the supporting cast also stands out in the movie. Characters like Rex, played by Buddy Lester, and Studs, played by Del Moore, contribute a great deal towards making The Big Mouth an engaging watch. These characters support the main plot by adding subplots and moments of comic relief.

While The Big Mouth is unarguably a comedy film, it should be appreciated for more than just its humor. It successfully combines multiple genres, including action, mystery, and romance, all wrapped together by Lewis's impeccable comedic craft. Evidently, this film gives room for Jerry Lewis to showcase his mastery as a comedian, an actor, and a director.

In conclusion, The Big Mouth stands as a testament to Jerry Lewis's comedic genius and his prowess as a director. Its minute-long laughs, coupled with a gripping storyline, make it a must-watch for lovers of classic comedies. Embracing the best elements of the late 60s' film-making, The Big Mouth remains as an enduring piece of cinematic comedy.