A Fish Called Wanda

| 1988

Directed by: Charles Crichton, John Cleese

Main Plot

"A Fish Called Wanda" is a comedy heist film centered around a group of criminals who double-cross each other in their quest for stolen diamonds. The plot kicks off with a meticulously planned robbery executed by a gang consisting of a con artist, a weapons expert, a stuttering animal lover, and their ringleader. After the heist, the gang members turn on each other to claim the loot for themselves. The con artist seduces a barrister to gain information, leading to a series of comedic and chaotic events. As the characters' schemes and betrayals unfold, the situation spirals into a farcical mess, culminating in a series of unexpected twists and turns. The film blends sharp wit, slapstick humor, and clever dialogue, making it a memorable and entertaining caper.

Characters

  • John Cleese plays Archie Leach, a barrister who becomes romantically entangled with Wanda while unwittingly getting involved in a jewel heist.
  • Jamie Lee Curtis plays Wanda Gershwitz, a con artist who seduces her accomplices to manipulate them and secure stolen diamonds for herself.
  • Kevin Kline plays Otto West, a dim-witted, narcissistic ex-CIA operative who complicates a jewel heist with his unpredictable behavior and rivalry with fellow conspirators.

Ending Explained

In the conclusion of "A Fish Called Wanda," the intricate web of deception and double-crossing reaches its climax. Otto (Kevin Kline) attempts to kill Archie (John Cleese) but is thwarted by Wanda (Jamie Lee Curtis), who ultimately sides with Archie. The final showdown occurs at the airport, where Otto tries to escape with the stolen diamonds. However, Archie and Wanda manage to outsmart him. Otto ends up being run over by a steamroller, driven by Ken (Michael Palin), who seeks revenge for Otto's cruelty to his beloved fish. Wanda and Archie then board a plane to South America, taking the diamonds with them. The film ends with a humorous note, revealing that Ken has successfully testified against George (Tom Georgeson), leading to his conviction. The resolution ties up the various plot threads, with the main characters achieving their goals: Archie finds excitement and a new life with Wanda, while Ken gets justice for his mistreated fish. The ending underscores the film's themes of greed, betrayal, and the unexpected alliances formed amidst chaos.

Charles Crichton John Cleese Comedy Crime John Cleese Jamie Lee Curtis Kevin Kline