Watch A Cock and Bull Story
- R
- 2005
- 1 hr 34 min
-
6.7 (13,256)
A Cock and Bull Story is a 2005 movie that blends comedy, drama, and meta-fiction. It follows the making of a movie adaptation of Laurence Sterne's 18th-century novel, The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman. The movie stars Steve Coogan as himself and as the main character, Tristram Shandy, as well as Jeremy Northam, Rob Brydon, and a host of other talented actors.
The film unfolds as a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a movie adaptation of a notoriously difficult book. Steve Coogan plays himself, a self-absorbed actor who is trying to balance his ego with the demands of the film's production. His co-stars include Jeremy Northam, who plays the suave and sophisticated leading man, and Rob Brydon, who plays the down-to-earth, joke-cracking co-star.
As the production moves forward, we see the lines between reality and fiction begin to blur. The actors are constantly breaking the fourth wall, addressing the camera, and commenting on the absurdity of their situation. They often engage in conversations about the nature of acting and storytelling, and we see them struggle to reconcile their own identities with the characters they are portraying.
Despite the chaos of the production, the movie manages to capture the wit and whimsy of Sterne's original novel. The film includes several fantasy sequences that bring Tristram Shandy's bizarre and surreal world to life. These scenes are imaginative and playful, and they inject the movie with an infectious sense of fun.
The film also explores some serious themes, such as the power dynamics on a film set, the pitfalls of celebrity, and the challenges of artistic collaboration. The actors frequently clash with the director, who is played by Michael Winterbottom, and we see the tensions that arise when creative and business interests collide.
At its core, A Cock and Bull Story is a movie about the power of storytelling. It celebrates the joy and absurdity of fiction, while also acknowledging the complexities and limitations of the medium. The film is a playful and self-reflexive romp that is sure to delight fans of post-modern literature and experimental film.
In conclusion, A Cock and Bull Story is a must-see movie for anyone who loves witty, intelligent comedy with a meta-fictional edge. Steve Coogan, Jeremy Northam, and Rob Brydon deliver standout performances, and the film is a testament to the genius of Laurence Sterne's original novel. Whether you're a fan of the source material or simply looking for an offbeat and entertaining movie, A Cock and Bull Story is well worth your time.
A Cock and Bull Story is a 2005 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7 and a MetaScore of 80.