Dive into Devilish Deals: Unpacking the "Bedazzled" Movie Saga
Ever wish for something so badly you'd sell your soul for it? "Bedazzled" presents that Faustian bargain, not once, but twice! We dive deep into the funny world of "Bedazzled," examining the groovy 1967 original and the flashy 2000 remake. Buckle up for a devilishly interesting ride.
The OG "Bedazzled" (1967): Swinging Sixties and Satanic Shenanigans
Let’s rewind to 1967 in Swinging London. The Beatles top the charts, miniskirts are in style. Stanley Donen, famed for classics like "Singin' in the Rain," gives us "Bedazzled." This is not a horror film; it's a British comedy packed with wit and charm, thanks to Peter Cook and Dudley Moore.
Picture the classic Faust tale, now infused with 60s flair. That’s "Bedazzled" (1967). It’s a comedic take on a legend where desires clash with devilish deals. All this unfolds in vibrant London. Think Austin Powers but without shag carpets.
"Bedazzled" 2000: Brendan Fraser, Elizabeth Hurley, and Seven (Mostly) Deadly Wishes
Fast forward to 2000. Harold Ramis, the man behind "Groundhog Day," reimagines "Bedazzled" for a new era. Enter Brendan Fraser, at his comedic peak, with Elizabeth Hurley as a drop-dead gorgeous devil. This version is a full remake, ramping up the Hollywood charm.
The plot is simple: Elliot Richards, played by Fraser, is a nice guy crushing on his co-worker. In desperation, he agrees to a deal with the Devil (Hurley). Seven wishes for his soul? Sounds tempting, right? Not quite. The Devil is sly, twisting each wish into unexpected havoc.
Brendan Fraser shines as Elliot, the lovable loser struggling to win over Alison. Meanwhile, Hurley’s Devil is sophisticated and funny. She’s a tempting figure you might nearly strike a deal with. Gabriel Casseus plays God, adding a quirky counterbalance to the chaos. His portrayal is one of the best cinematic depictions of God.
Where to Watch "Bedazzled": Streaming and Rental Options
Ready to make your own deal with "Bedazzled"? Good news! Both versions are available. If you have Disney+, you can stream "Bedazzled" (likely the 2000 version). Amazon Prime Video hosts the same. For those without subscriptions, you can buy or rent it digitally on various platforms like Amazon Video and Microsoft Store.
Themes and Morals: Wishing Won't Make it So
"Bedazzled" does more than amuse; it offers sneaky life lessons. The central theme? Be careful what you wish for. Elliot's journey shows wish fulfillment gone wrong. He desires Alison but learns happiness is not about getting what he thinks he wants.
Another key lesson is that wishing alone won't get you what you want. Elliot discovers that shortcuts and devil deals often lead to dissatisfaction. Real fulfillment arises from self-awareness and effort.
The film underscores this through Elliot's mishaps. He wishes for wealth and power, envisioning Alison at his side. The Devil grants him this wish, making him a Colombian drug lord. This isn’t glamorous; his “wife” hates him and cheats with his co-worker. Each wish reveals the flaws in Elliot's desires and the Devil's clever tricks.
Ultimately, "Bedazzled" conveys a heartwarming message. Deals and extravagant wishes mean little. The real focus is on genuine connections and selfless acts. At one point, Satan reveals that a selfless wish can void their pact. This becomes Elliot’s redemption. He ultimately wishes for Alison's happiness above his own, breaking the deal and saving his soul.
Age Rating and Content: Is "Bedazzled" Kid-Friendly?
"Bedazzled" (2000) gained a PG-13 rating. This suggests some content may not suit children under 13. It includes sex-related humor, language, and some drug references. The film touches on sexual themes that may unsettle younger viewers. While it’s comedic, it’s better suited for teens and adults who appreciate mature humor.
Filming Locations: Los Angeles is the Star
If you're a location scout at heart, "Bedazzled" (2000) showcases recognizable spots in Los Angeles, California. The Los Angeles County Arboretum in Arcadia served as a filming backdrop. This botanical garden enhances several scenes beautifully.
Fans might recognize The Forum in Inglewood too. A memorable wish sequence features Elliot as a clumsy basketball player there. Next time you're in LA traffic, picture Brendan Fraser making chaotic wishes nearby.
Elizabeth Hurley: More Than Just a Devilishly Good Actress
Elizabeth Hurley's role as the Devil in "Bedazzled" (2000) is iconic. Yet she’s more than a pretty face. She has enjoyed a long career as an actress and model. At age 58, Hurley remains active. But she also runs Elizabeth Hurley Beach, specializing in stylish beachwear.
Her personal life draws plenty of attention too. Her long-term romance with Hugh Grant attracted tabloid interest for years. They faced scandals but remain friends post-split in 2000. In 2002, she welcomed her son Damian and chose Grant as his godfather.
Brendan Fraser: From Zero to (Almost) Hero
Brendan Fraser excels as Elliot Richards in "Bedazzled" (2000). He embodies an insecure man yearning for love. His impressive comedic timing shines during chaotic scenes filled with failed wishes. This role highlights Fraser's range from comedy to drama throughout his diverse career.
Remake Roots: Bowing Down to the 1967 Original
Remember, the 2000 "Bedazzled" is a remake honoring its 1967 predecessor. While it updates setting and comedy for today, it retains core themes from the original film. The enduring appeal of the Faustian legend showcases its comedic potential.
Plot Twists and Turns: Seven Wishes and a Whole Lot of Trouble
The crux of "Bedazzled" revolves around Elliot's deal for seven wishes for his soul. His goal is simple: win Alison’s affection. Yet the twists in this tale reveal what those dark deals truly entail.
Each wish is a scenario. It teaches Elliot lessons in chaotic and funny ways.
The drug lord wish is just one. Elliot wants wealth and power. He sees a happy life with Alison. Instead, he lands in danger. His wife hates him. Betrayal lurks everywhere. This is not the romantic fantasy he dreamed of.
"Bedazzled" shows how wishes backfire. It highlights the gap between superficial desires and true happiness. It explores self-discovery in a comedic way.
"Bedazzled" Defined: More Than Just Sparkles
to impress forcefully: enchant, fascinate. It involves being captivated by intelligence or beauty. Imagine being "bedazzled" by a great performance or stunning view. In the film, the Devil’s allure may blind Elliot to his wishes' true costs.
Devil's Many Names and Divine Cameos
The Devil has many names: Satan, Lucifer, Beelzebub, Prince of Darkness. "Bedazzled" hints at this playful side of the Devil. Don't forget Gabriel Casseus as God. He adds quirky charm to this tale about devilish deals and divine viewpoints.
Whether you like the 1967 classic or the 2000 remake, "Bedazzled" is witty. It provides insight into the Faustian bargain. It reminds us to think about our wishes. We must look past superficial desires. Beware making deals with anyone resembling Elizabeth Hurley.
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