The Man Who Knew Too Little Review
by Tim Voon (stirling AT netlink DOT com DOT au)April 12th, 1998
THE MAN WHO KNEW TOO LITTLE 1997
A film review by Timothy Voon
Copyright 1998 Timothy Voon
1 :-) for the spy who knew nothing
Cast: Bill Murray, Joanne Whalley, Alfred Molina, Peter Gallagher, Richard Wilson, Geraldine James, John Standing, Anna Chancellor Director: Jon Amiel
Screenplay: Robert Farrar and Howard Franklin based on the novel "Watch That Man" by Robert Farrar
The problem with spy movies carrying comedy at every turn, is the necessity to retain credibility with the audience and yet sustain the slapstick humour right till the very end. A prime example that fails to do both are the NAKED GUN movies. On the other hand, I feel THE PINK PANTHER movies succeed solely because of the classical Sellers performance they contain. Parallels can be drawn between THE MAN WHO KNEW TOO LITTLE and Inspector Clouseau, yet it pales in comparison because of Bill Murray.
The plot begins with an ordinary, down and out actor, Wallace Ritchie (Bill Murray), who visits his successful, wealthy brother James (Peter Gallagher) in England. In order to get the odd ball, family failure out of his hair, James arranges for Wallace to join a live street theatre, where the acting is played out in the real world. Unfortunately, Wallace is in the wrong place at the wrong time and gets involved with actual murder and mystery. However, Wallace remains totally ignorant of this fact even when his life is in constant danger; and this is where the problem lies - trying to maintain his naivety. The role of Wallace requires the charms of an innocent fool; a role not suited to Murray (he can play the fool, but with little charm or innocence), but a role ideal for the late Peter Sellers.
Overall there are some amusing scenes with misplaced bombs, assassins who are assassinated, playful torture scenes and wild car chases all reminiscent of the 60’s PINK PANTHER, but sadly missing Sellers. Bill Murray tries his best but unfortunately is unable to carry out the part, not because he is a bad actor, but because it requires a certain type of actor. Joanne Whalley-Kilmer is adequate as a slightly, ditzy bombshell, whilst Alfred Molina has fun with his role as Boris the Butcher.
Timothy Voon
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