Withnail and I, a 1987 British film by Bruce Robinson, explores themes of failure and camaraderie through dark humor. It chronicles the absurd escapades of two actors living in squalor in 1960s London. The film's climax sees its title character alone, highlighting a deep sense of solitude amidst comedy. Robinson's direction ensures that the screenplay, initially based on his life experiences, blends hilarity with poignant moments. As noted by critics, the story functions as a classic three-act structure, encapsulating the essence of British humor, marked by relatable despair and absurd situations.
In the words of its writer and director, Withnail and I is a comedy that doesn't know it's funny. To its star, it's about the nobility of failure.
At the BFI, he said he knew he'd got his film right at an early screening, when a girl sort of threw up, laughing. She had a point.
Robinson's mastery, how Withnail is a classic three-acter as outlined by Ring Lardner. Act One: Send a man up a tree. Act Two: Throw rocks at him. Act Three: Bring him down.
Almost all of Robinson's lines are funny. Not one is meant as a joke. The actors excel, precisely to Robinson's direction.
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