First things first, this is not a gay film. One of the side characters happens to be gay but that itself does not qualify this movie to be a gay film. So you might ask whey am I reviewing it here. Well, it is because i have had similar cases in the past and I will continue to write reviews here for movies which had an important character in it play a gay role. Its a film with subtle comedy nuances which not everyone can appreciate but considering it was made in late 80's in UK, I did appreciate the film better. Withnail and Marwood inhabit a wretched, cold and dirty flat somewhere in the back-end of London, waiting (hopefully) for a call from their agents. They are totally wasted and do absolutely nothing with their life. Suddenly inspiration strikes; Withnail has an uncle, Monty, who just happens to have a little cottage in Penrith. They visit Monty, a somewhat eccentric, rich and randy old queer, who agrees to lend them the key, after some private persuasion by Withnail. Reaching the cottage in the middle of nowhere, the only way Withnail and Marwood see to keep themselves warm is heat the furniture. The next morning the situation just deteriorates -- farmers won't sell them firewood, their wives won't talk to them and they finish all their booze. A surprise visit by Monty that weekend changes things. Monty arrives and showers n them great food, wine and charm. Marwood hates him but can't do anything. It turns out that Withnail told his uncle that marwood is gay but somehow cannot accept it and that he loves Withnail but he cannot reciprocate. Monty tries to get sexually close to Marwood who then makes up the story that Withnail and him are actually a couple but Withnail just can't accept the truth. They soon head back to London and Marwood hears that he has got a lead role and moves out leaving Withnail drunk and drugged to deal with life by himself.
The performances of the 2 principal characters as wasted and depressed substance-abusers are fantastic, a joy to watch and so incredibly pitiful. The movie may be a comedy at heart but it's a desperate one, with the laughs born out of frustration, recognition and degenerate self-loathing. Although marketed as comedy, I personally did not think it was that hilarious. Or maybe just because I am seeing it almost 25 years after it came out.
This film touches the nerves of anyone that's ever struggled for something that seemed unobtainable. That naive part of youth that makes us feel invincible. The time of your life when you don't mind going without. The time of your life where your greatest memories will come from. The freedom and irresponsibility of being young. (5.5/10)
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