Watch Les Patterson Saves the World

Les Patterson Saves the World is a comedic film released in 1987, directed by George Miller and starring legendary Australian comedian Barry Humphries in the titular role of the uncouth and lecherous Australian diplomat, Sir Les Patterson. The movie follows the adventures of Sir Les as he travels the world trying to prevent a global conspiracy aimed at destroying the ozone layer and bringing about the next Ice Age.

The movie begins in London, where Sir Les is attending a conference on the environment. Despite his complete lack of knowledge on the subject, he is appointed as the representative of Australia due to his diplomatic status. Soon after his arrival, Sir Les meets and promptly falls in love with Dr. Kiki Wellington (Pamela Stephenson), an American scientist who has made a sensational discovery about the depletion of the ozone layer. With her help, Sir Les uncovers a vast conspiracy led by a mysterious figure known only as "The Fat Man", to destroy the ozone layer and bring about a new ice age.

Joined by a ragtag team of misfits, including a Russian cosmonaut (Thaao Penghlis), Sir Les sets out to save the world from certain doom. Their journey takes them all over the world, from the jungles of South America to the frozen wastelands of Siberia, as they race against time to find and stop The Fat Man and his evil plan. Along the way, they encounter a host of eccentric characters, from a mad scientist with a death ray to a group of feminist guerrilla fighters.

The film is classic Barry Humphries, full of bawdy humor, crude jokes, and a good helping of irreverence towards authority figures. Through his portrayal of Sir Les, Humphries satirizes the image of the stereotypical Australian man - brash, boorish, and overly fond of alcohol and women. The character is a crass and politically incorrect parody of the real-life Australian diplomat and former Prime Minister, Bob Hawke.

Pamela Stephenson shines as Dr. Kiki Wellington, the only character in the movie with any real intellect or expertise on the subject of the ozone layer, and the only one who takes their mission seriously. Her portrayal of the scientist is refreshingly straightforward and intelligent, providing a counterbalance to Sir Les's buffoonery.

Thaao Penghlis is a standout as the Russian cosmonaut, whose constant bickering with Sir Les provides some of the film's funniest moments. Penghlis delivers a performance that is both comical and endearing, adding a touch of heart to the film's otherwise slapstick comedy.

Despite its ridiculous premise and lowbrow humor, Les Patterson Saves the World contains some surprisingly astute commentary on environmental issues and the dangers of corporate greed. The film's portrayal of a sinister conspiracy aimed at destroying the ozone layer, in the name of profit, feels all too relevant today, as the issues of climate change and environmental degradation continue to dominate the news.

Overall, Les Patterson Saves the World is a hilarious and irreverent romp through the world of international diplomacy and environmentalism. While it may not be everyone's cup of tea, fans of Barry Humphries and his brand of humor are sure to find plenty to enjoy in this raunchy and satirical comedy.