BEDAZZLED
A 20th Century Fox release 

review by Joseph B. Mauceri

SYNOPSIS: Elliot Richards is more then your average "joe." Lacking interpersonal skills, he over compensates as he tries to fit in. In a moment of weakness he makes a wish - "I would give anything" - to gain the love and affection of his colleague - Allison Gardner. Poof! The devil shows up, convinces Elliot of her power, and gives him seven wishes to attempt to sway Allison's affections. Be careful of what you wish for! Everyone that Elliot makes goes awry. He quickly comes to his last wish and the loss of his soul. Will Elliot cave to pressure from the Devil or find a way to save his soul? 

REVIEW: BEDAZZLED is an exceptional character piece for Brendan Fraser. In addition to the computer geek Richard Elliot, Fraser sits in the makeup chair to become a Columbia drug lord, a well-oiled NBA star, a celebrated suave man of letters ¯ he looks good great but . . .  You'll see! ¯ and a red-hair and freckles emotionally "sensitive" guy. BEDAZZLED allows Fraser to show that he has all the skills to be one of Hollywood's top comedic leading men. Contrasted against that, is Elizabeth Hurley in a wicked role. Unfortunately, she doesn't get nearly as many opportunities to show her stuff. Well, her mojo is turn all the way up to "burn."  Acting wise, she gets a couple of scenes where she gets to do character bits that are fun and entertaining. However, most of the time she's eye-candy with an attitude, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. The character is a one trick-pony that doesn't allow her the range that her previous roles, such as her work in "Austin Powers," which endeared her to audiences.

Ramis waters down the morality of the tale, focusing more on the comedy and satire aspects. He utilizes lots of quick edits and cuts, building the setups to each wish, but doesn't offer much substance in their resolution. The entire film is about setups and sight gags. Ramis seems to tell the audience, "You now the devil is going to put this sap through the ringer. So let's have a laugh at his expense." Again, Ramis puts Fraser through his paces, but doesn't seem to ask much from Hurley. It is so noticeable because the rest of the cast, who show up as background in the different wish segments, are genuinely funny character actors. The supporting cast gets a lot of milage and laughs out of these wishes. Overall, Ramis is a capable director who can use the tools of his trade to deliver an enjoyable and amusing film, but it is funny "ha," not "ha, ha." 

Elliot never seems like he is ever in any real danger, or even losing his job. I found it hard to believe he could gain any insight from his experiences. I was disturbed by how the morality of the tale was manipulated and watered down. Hell may know no scorn like a woman's fury, but even when the devil gets mad her bark is worst then her bite. When Elliot finally faces the fires of hell it seems he can beat the devil more out of dump luck then a true selfless act of the heart. Ramis offers a kinder, gentler princess of darkness. What can you expect from a devil who can tell her prey, "I'm glad you got to keep your soul, Elliot, because I like you." It's a far cry from the more genuinely evil portrayals we've seen, my favorite being Pacino in "The Devil's Advocate."

BEDAZZLED is a remake of a 1967 film, and this retelling is a bit too politically correct for my taste. Originally, slate for a summer release, it's easy to understand why the studio felt BEDAZZLED would stand a better chance as a fluffy Halloween treat. Given Fraser's performance, it's a lot of fun. When it comes down to the nitty-gritty of the writing, "The Simpsons" parody (Homer wished for a donut and Flanders plays the devil) is far superior to what is offered here. 

OFFICIAL WEB SITE:
http://www.bedazzledmovie.com

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