Rhinoceros (1974)

Yet again Zero Mostel and Gene Wilder are paired yet again in zany roles in an even zanier plot. Yet its mood doesn't end as a comedy. If you loved them in The Producers I think you'll be more than amused by them in this long forgotten film. The screenplay is based on the master of absurdism Eugène Ionesco's Rhinoceros. A few years back I read the play. The dialogue was still pretty much intact and the setting was changed to an Americanized city. Yet, it just didn't seem to be the same play that was an allegory for nazism though it still is essentially about blindless conformity. I have a feeling that this film is nowhere near the level it was as a play. perhaps this could have really flourished with a better director who didn't feel the need to dumb down for quick laughs.


In a way this is an oddly charming film. It looks exactly what we think of 1974 yet this has its closest moments to vaudeville simply because of how physical, wacky, and absurd it is. Of course this is all intentional. it darkens and at the end feels bleak. Wilder is the anti-hero, the hapless man prone to too much booze and weariness. Mostel the boorish friend who is concerned about his friend's behavior and too concerned by what others think. Karen Black the "love interest" is sweet and likeable but is not that important to the plot. What is important is the fact that everyone seems to be morphing into rhinoceros for no apparent reason. Personally, I enjoyed how you never get to see any actual rhinoceros except for Mostel's metamorphosis which just relies on his acting ability.


Bottom Line -
This film is at times fun and silly but has a bold important message. For those who don't want to have to think while watching a film and have everything spoon fed don't watch this. If you love Gene Wilder or Zero Mostel, films from the 1970s, or absurdism you may enjoy this.

Available on Netflix.