The Tiger Makes Out

The Tiger Makes Out is a unique and enthralling film by director Arthur Hiller from the year 1967 that threads through comedy, drama, and the touching bits of real-life essence. The movie is based on a play titled "The Tiger" by Murray Schisgal, following its protagonist, Ben Harris, an everyday man leading a mundane life, encapsulating his dreams and, eventually, his attempts to escape the reality of his existence.

The cast of the movie includes the award-winning Eli Wallach, who portrayed Ben Harris, and Anne Jackson, who played the character of Gloria Fiske, and is starred with Bob Dishy as the mailman. Each of the cast members contributes thoroughly to the cinematic appeal of The Tiger Makes Out, spinning their on-screen characters into a thoroughly enjoyable act.

Ben Harris, the central character played by Eli Wallach, is a frustrated New Yorker and discontented mailman who traverses the streets of Manhattan wishing for something to break the monotony. The movie beautifully depicts Ben's quotidian life, stuck between the extremes of wearisome routine and wild fantasy. His job is hardly fulfilling, strewn with irate customers and ignorant supervisors, while his home life is unremarkable, plodding along in a marriage with a wife who rejects any notion of romance or adventure. All this contributes to his increasing dissatisfaction with the stagnancy of his life.

The vivid depiction of Ben's internal turmoil and the stark difference between his fantasy life and reality makes one empathize with his character. He dreams of passionate encounters and recalls episodes of revolutionary fervour which are starkly contrasted with his current lifestyle. Notably, the film does not shy away from highlighting the diverse lives led by New Yorkers, with Ben's character providing a broad canvas, reflective of millions amidst the city's hustle-bustle.

His fantasies grow stronger day by day, coming to a point where Ben considers kidnapping a woman who can appreciate his sentimental enthusiasm; it is the manifestation of this secret wish that the story follows for the remainder part. An encounter with Gloria Fiske (Anne Jackson) changes Ben's life in a way he couldn't fathom. Gloria, a social worker with a cause, is everything Ben's wife is not -- engaging, adventurous, and passionately involved in life. How these contrasting characters mingle and the impact of their encounters forms the crux of the movie, turning regular life unpredictability into a dramatic comedy-drama.

The film weaves a hint of comedy into the unfolding drama, providing some lighter moments throughout. At the same time, it provides commentary on the human need for change, passion, and adventure, a striking balance between the comic and the profound.

Arthur Hiller, known for his exceptional storytelling skills and his ability to mold actors into characters that resonate with the audience, brings out an extraordinary blend of comedy and drama. His direction capitalises fully on the talents of the cast members. Eli Wallach lends powerful depth to the character of Ben Harris, capturing his frustration and desperation with an intense sincerity, perfectly complemented by Anne Jackson's portrayal of Gloria. Bob Dishy's excellent performance as the Mailman further adds depth to the movie.

The Tiger Makes Out remains a distinctive piece of cinematography that dives into the seemingly ordinary life of a man dreaming of an extraordinary existence. This film manages to capture the essence of urban ennui while highlighting the longing for passion and excitement in daily life. It delves beautifully into the dynamics of human relationships, transforming everyday encounters into remarkable human drama. It reminds us that life, no matter how mundane, can take unpredictable turns, leading to situations as funny, absurd, and moving as any that could be dreamt of.

In conclusion, The Tiger Makes Out is an intriguing blend of comedy and drama that takes you on a reflective journey about the monotony of life, relationships, and the yearning for change. Its eccentric narrative is filled with brilliant performances that manage to captivate and entertain, making it a truly timeless piece of cinema.