W.C. Fields and Me (1976)

W.C. Fields and Me Poster

In 1920s New York City, W. C. Fields is a successful headlining entertainer, but when his girlfriend leaves him and his broker loses his money, Fields begins anew in California. Working at a wax museum, Fields eventually lands a film role that ascends him to stardom. Back in the limelight and palling around with John Barrymore and the like, Fields meets an aspiring actress Carlotta Monti at a party, with whom he forms a rocky relationship.

Summary of Film
"W.C. Fields and Me" is a 1976 American biographical movie directed by Arthur Hiller and produced by Universal Pictures. The film was narratively inspired by the narrative of Fields' mistress, Carlotta Monti, who wrote "W.C. Fields & Me" based upon their relationship.

Plot Overview
The movie primarily illustrates the life of comic and star W.C. Fields, played by Rod Steiger, in the late phases of his renowned career. His love with Carlotta Monti, played by Valerie Perrine, is central to the story. Their relationship is depicted both humorously and poignantly, painting a thorough photo of a male known for his irreverent funny and his struggle with alcohol addiction. Steiger masters the role, switching from dark comical moments to sobering ones with surprising ease. Perrine, as Monti, is all at once caring and assertive, offering a great contrast to Fields' more volatile character.

Secret Events
The film follows a series of considerable events in Fields' life, exploring his increasing reliance on alcohol, his fight with studio bosses who decline to give him the type of work he wants, his rough relationship with Monti, and his fall from stardom. Fields is illustrated as a conflicteman having problem with his comedy profession and personal life. His commitment to comical authenticity leads him to encounter Paramount studio executives who desire him to desert his outlandish funny design.

His relationship with Monti, spanning 14 years, is depicted with equal parts warmth and tempestuousness. She functions as his defender, withstanding those who exploit him and attempting to assist Fields with his alcohol addiction.

Vital Reception
"W.C. Fields and Me" illustrates Fields in his golden years, a male battling alcohol addiction and expert disillusionment while preserving a complicated, though loving, relationship with Carlotta. This portrayal amassed mixed reviews from critics and audiences. While lots of applauded Steiger's fine job of embodying the late comedian's personality and spirit, others discovered the film's portrayal of Fields to be overtly terrible, doing not have the comical edge that defined Fields' onscreen personality.

Finale
The motion picture ends by showcasing Fields' death and its impact on Monti. Regardless of their turbulent relationship, she is deeply impacted by his passing. The film's ending is poignant, highlighting the real bond in between the two regardless of their numerous distinctions and struggles.

Total Impact
"W.C. Fields and Me" is a biopic that goes beyond mere impersonation, delivering an insightful view into the life of among America's many renowned comical figures. Steiger and Perrine's efficiencies offer depth to the narrative, though the movie is thought about more of a remarkable portrayal of Fields' life than a comedic one. Despite the mixed evaluations, the film provides audiences a much deeper understanding of W.C. Fields' personality, celebrating his special contribution to comedy while acknowledging his individual drawbacks and struggles.

Top Cast

  • Rod Steiger (small)
    Rod Steiger
    W. C. Fields
  • Valerie Perrine (small)
    Valerie Perrine
    Carlotta Monti
  • John Marley (small)
    John Marley
    Studio Head Bannerman
  • Jack Cassidy (small)
    Jack Cassidy
    John Barrymore
  • Bernadette Peters (small)
    Bernadette Peters
    Melody
  • Dana Elcar (small)
    Dana Elcar
    Dockstedter
  • Paul Stewart (small)
    Paul Stewart
    Florenz Ziegfeld
  • Billy Barty (small)
    Billy Barty
    Ludwig
  • Allan Arbus (small)
    Allan Arbus
    Gregory LaCava
  • Milt Kamen
    Dave Chasen
  • Louis Zorich (small)
    Louis Zorich
    Gene Fowler