The Fat Spy

The Fat Spy is a comic caper of the silver screen from 1966 that blends together elements of satire, comedy, and romance in a surprisingly chaotic yet enthralling way. Directed by Joseph Cates and starring the likes of Phyllis Diller, Jack E. Leonard, and Brian Donlevy, the movie has managed to achieve cult status among a particular set of audiences who appreciate its unconventional theme and whimsical storytelling style.

The movie is centered on the premise of an over-the-hill spy who takes it upon himself to monitor the activities on a seemingly uncharted island off the coast of Florida. The island is believed to harbor the mythical Fountain of Youth. The intrigue thickens when the wealthy landed gentry, led by the fierce and funny Wellington (played by Brian Donlevy), conceive plans to convert the island into a modern resort complete with all the amenities, thereby posing a threat to the untouched wilderness and the mystical fountain.

As the plot unfolds, the quirkiness of the characters in the film makes for a thoroughly entertaining and comedic viewing experience. The titular character, an overweight spy named Irving (played memorably by Jack E. Leonard), is a bumbling and clumsy yet oddly charming creature. His slapstick style and hilarious antics provide a steady stream of chuckles, while his pursuit of the Fountain of Youth adds an element of anticipation to the story.

Complementing these fun spy adventures is the romantic subplot. Irving's younger brother, George Junior (portrayed by Jayne Mansfield’s real-life husband, Mickey Hargitay), and Wellington's beautiful daughter, Junior (portrayed by the ever-glamorous Jayne Mansfield), fall in love, further complicating the already convoluted situation. Their budding romance is set against the backdrop of the island's pristine environment and serves a stark contrast to the comic occurrences stirred by the adults.

Elevating the humor is the character of Camille Salamander, played by the ever fantastic Phyllis Diller, a competitor of Wellington’s who also has an eye for the island and its treasures. Phyllis Diller's robust comic timing and flamboyant portrayal give the character a unique presence, as she navigates the hilarious and sometimes absurd events of the plot with panache.

Adding to the eclectic elements of The Fat Spy is its lively music score. The film showcases a few musical performances by a real-life popular band of the era, The Wild Ones. Their fun, energetic performances of rock-n-roll tunes contribute to the light and entertaining atmosphere of the film.

The Fat Spy serves as a parody of popular spy movies of its time, such as the James Bond series. It uses the basic elements of a spy movie, like secret missions and hidden treasures, but employs them in a humorous and satirical manner. The film satirizes the greed and foolishness prevalent in high society, using the mythical 'Fountain of Youth' as a symbol for their never-ending thirst for material gain.

Visually, the movie is a vibrant, eye-catching affair with brightly colored costumes, scenic landscapes, and delightfully kitschy 60s decor. The cinematography does a brilliant job of capturing the beautiful Florida coast and the contrasting opulence of the wealthy characters.

While it’s true that The Fat Spy may not have garnered extensive critical acclaim on its release, over the years, it's been noted for its kitsch value and for some unforgettable performances, particularly by Phyllis Diller and Jack E. Leonard. Their roles, full of wacky hijinks and physical comedy, make this movie a staple for fans of slapstick and over-the-top humor.

All in all, The Fat Spy is a lighthearted, comical romp that embraces its zany plot and eclectic characters. Its bizarre blend of romance, intrigue, and the quest for eternal youth set in a tropical paradise makes it uniquely appealing. Those with a taste for classic comedies marked by extravagant characters and unique twists will find this movie a pleasant, humorous, time capsule from the swanky sixties.