Wise Guys
In Paris in the early 1960s, Ronald is a son of a good family, with a carefree, pleasure-oriented life. He is one of the leading figures in the small world of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Following a trivial parking incident, he meets Arthur, a young man with a straight face who hurts his pride. It is at this moment that Ambroisine, a beautiful young woman, appears... she will be the instrument of Ronald's revenge.
Insights
Plot Summary
A meek insurance salesman, tasked with delivering a briefcase to a mob boss, finds himself inadvertently caught in a dangerous world of organized crime. As he tries to escape the perilous situation, he encounters a femme fatale and a series of escalating mishaps. The film follows his increasingly desperate attempts to survive and return to his ordinary life.
Critical Reception
Wise Guys, also known as 'The String," received mixed reviews upon its release. While some critics appreciated its comedic elements and the performances of its lead actors, others found the plot convoluted and the humor uneven. It is generally considered a minor entry in the careers of its cast and crew.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its inventive comedic set pieces.
- Criticized for a sometimes confusing narrative.
- Burt Lancaster's performance was noted for its comedic timing.
Google audience: Audience reception data for Wise Guys is largely unavailable, making it difficult to summarize specific user opinions.
Fun Fact
The film was originally intended to be a more serious crime drama before being reworked into a comedy by director Frank Tashlin.
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