The Last Remake of Beau Geste

The Last Remake of Beau Geste, released in 1977, is a clever and whimsical parody of the iconic adventure novel "Beau Geste" by P.C. Wren. The film takes an absurdist comedic take on this timeless classic, presenting it in an entirely different light and transforming it into a parody that enthrals viewers with its comical dialogues, memorable one-liners, and vibrating performance from the cast. Led by the hilarious Marty Feldman, it is a film that contrasts the somber tone of the original work with bright satire.

The film tells the tale of the Geste brothers, Beau and Digby, played with remarkable comic flair by British comedian Marty Feldman and versatile actor Michael York, respectively. The film uses the framework of its source but finesses it into something more quirky by blending humour, silliness, parody and the surreal. The plot follows twins Beau and Digby as they join the French Foreign Legion to protect the honour of their family, following the theft of their beloved family jewel, the Blue Water.

Marty Feldman’s portrayal of Digby, the not so bright and awkward of the brothers, is an absolute delight to view. His witty repartee, slapstick humour, and eccentric physical comedy breathe life into the character, turning him into the heart of the film. Michael York, known for his serious roles, showcases his comedic prowess here as his character Beau, the more heroic and intelligent brother. York's performance is measured, exuding charisma with a comic edge, serving as a perfect foil to Feldman's Digby.

Legendary actress Ann-Margret, delivers a stellar performance as the sultry Flavia, whose love for Beau is matched only by her greed for the Blue Water. Her comedic timings and sharp wit are perfectly executed, adding an extra layer of humour to the film. The film boasts a remarkable ensemble cast drawn from British veteran actors like Trevor Howard and Irish comedian Spike Milligan, whose skillful performances comfortably straddle the divide between the straight-played original story and the film's more absurd comedic gags.

Peter Boyle is also a standout, playing the ruthless Sergeant Markoff with an excessive, manic energy which fits perfectly into the film's over-the-top comedic tone. The film also stars James Earl Jones, in a rather unusual role as an Arabian Sheikh and Terry-Thomas, the epitome of Britishness, perfect for the role of the stern and bumbling Colonel.

The Last Remake of Beau Geste thrives on exaggeration and breaks the fourth wall, inviting viewers to engage with the characters in a never before seen way. Marty Feldman, apart from his acting role, also shows his directing and writing skills in this film. Feldman's comedic vision, quirky sensibility, and observational humor are displayed in every frame, turning mundane scenes into memorable laugh-out-loud moments.

The film's comic highlights include a range of ludicrous slapstick scenarios to sardonic one-liners and clever visual gags. The absurdity runs through the essence of this remake, turning classic scenes into comic sketches, all while maintaining some semblance of the original. The ambitious but failed attempts at recreating the 'Foreign Legion' and the parody of the 'military hierarchy' scenarios are particularly hilarious.

The film’s production values are impressive, with its lavish depiction of the period and beautifully shot desert landscapes, the filmmakers show an admirable attention to detail. Feldman not only charms you with the rib-tickling narrative but also impresses with his avant-garde directorial style, injecting the film with visual playfulness and recognizable film parodies. The soundtrack is also worth mentioning, with its blend of traditional military anthems and catchy, overblown comedic tracks complementing the film's tone.

In conclusion, The Last Remake of Beau Geste is a spectacular comedic spectacle that puts an absurdist twist on a beloved classic. It combines the silliness of slapstick, the cleverness of satire, and the absurdity of farcical parody without distorting the original tale completely. With its star-studded ensemble, witty dialogs, and a substantial dose of Marty Feldman’s unique comedy style, the film offers delightful entertainment that is both nostalgic and hilariously offbeat.