Withnail & I
This is one of my absolute very favorite films. It may be even my third or second favorite film of all time(not my first because that spot must be reserved for a certain spaghetti western).
Withnail may be my favorite film character all time as well. And because of that Richard E. Grant has shot up to being one of my favorite actors.
Bruce Robinson is perfect with writing and directing of this time, and if Hunter S. Thompson's The Rum Diaries which has been in pre-production for several years ever is finally made with Robinson at the helm, I wouldn't be surprised if it became my new favorite film of the new century.
If you haven't seen this movie I can give you a few criteria that may help you decide.
Are you a male? Some women may love this movie, but this is a completely male dominated movie. All the main characters are men, and there are only a few moments where women appear on the screen.
Are you an actor or been a part of that acting/theatre world? This is a story about two men who fancy themselves actors.
Are you an anglophile? This movie is wonderfully British. Set in a very specific time and place. Camden Town 1969.
Do you drink? There is lots of drinking.
The movie is endlessly quotable. In that rare category of film where every line is worth quoting.
You'll never meet such a watchable character as Withnail. He's over dramatic and completely cruel, but also sad, tragic, and entirely lovable.
Rating: 10/10