Cast
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Goldie Hawn
as Gloria Mundy
Chevy Chase
as Tony Carlson
Burgess Meredith
as Mr. Hennessey
Eugene Roche
as Archbishop Thorncrest / Archbishop's brother
Dudley Moore
as Stanley Tibbets
Marilyn Sokol
as Stella
Brian Dennehy
as Fergie
Marc Lawrence
as Rupert Stiltskin
Rachel Roberts
as Delia Darrow / Gerda Casswell
Frances Bay
as Mrs. Russel
Queenie Smith
as Elsie
Billy Barty
as J.J. MacKuen
Chuck McCann
as Theatre Manager
Don Calfa
as Scarface
Bruce Solomon
as Scott
Crew
Director
- Colin Higgins
Writer
- Colin Higgins
Producer
- Edward K. Milkis
- Thomas L. Miller
Reviews
John Chard
I play Detective. You play Lady In Distress.
Foul Play is written and directed by Colin Higgins. It stars Goldie Hawn, Chevy Chase, Burgess Meredith, Rachel Roberts, Dudley Moore and Brian Dennehy. Music is by Charles Fox and cinematography by David M. Walsh.
San Francisco librarian Gloria Mundy (Hawn) inadvertently gets embroiled with mobsters who are out to assassinate The Pope. Hooking up with cheeky copper Tony Carlson (Chase), she hopes to stay alive long enough to find out why people are trying to kill her!
Comedy thrillers are tough to get right, you gotta make people laugh and also grip them with drama, thankfully Colin Higgins gets it right in this delightful late 1970s production. He kind of plays safe by literally throwing many of the conventions of the genres into the mix, with weird villains, an odd couple (hello romance), pratfalls, near misses, McGuffin, bonkers situations (both dicey and funny) and etc etc. Boosted by a damn fine cast (Hawn and Chase are fun, charming and sexy together, while the supports excel), some superb Frisco scenery and a toe tapping 70s soundtrack, it rounds out as a breezy effort across the board. Where else you going to see Burgess Meredith and Rachel Roberts in a martial arts smack down? 7/10
Jan 30, 2017
Thematic Analysis
Foul Play represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Mystery/Thriller cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Colin Higgins brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1978, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Foul Play took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $5.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 116 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 164 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 174 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1978, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Foul Play shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Double Indemnity, which focuses more on action than character development, Foul Play offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Mulholland Drive and Adam's Apples explore similar territory, Foul Play stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: July 14, 1978
- Runtime: 1h 56m
- Budget: $5,000,000
- Revenue: $45,000,000
