Watch W.C. Fields and Me

W.C. Fields and Me is a biographical drama film from 1976 that chronicles the life and times of legendary vaudeville performer and comedian W.C. Fields. Directed by Arthur Hiller and starring Rod Steiger, Valerie Perrine, and John Marley, the movie delves into the complicated relationship between Fields and his mistress and later wife, Carlotta Monti.

The story is told through the eyes of Monti (played by Perrine), who is first introduced as a struggling young actress trying to make it in Hollywood. Through a chance encounter, she meets W.C. Fields (played by Steiger), an older and world-weary comedian who takes a liking to her.

Despite their age difference and Fields' reputation as a heavy drinker with a unique, cantankerous personality, Monti falls in love with him and becomes his mistress. Over the years, she becomes his confidante, caretaker, and eventual wife.

The movie does an excellent job of portraying the evolution of Fields' career, from his early days in vaudeville to his eventual success in movies. Along the way, we see his intricate and sometimes bizarre comedic routines, including his famous juggling act with cigar boxes.

The film also explores the darker side of Fields' life, including his struggles with alcohol and his tumultuous relationship with his estranged wife and children. This is contrasted with his tender and loving relationship with Monti, who serves as his constant companion and emotional anchor.

The performances in the movie are excellent, especially Steiger as Fields. He perfectly captures the comedian's unique speaking style and comedic timing, making the character both funny and tragic. Perrine is also fantastic as Monti, bringing a depth and complexity to the role that makes her more than just a simple love interest.

Overall, W.C. Fields and Me is a compelling and entertaining biopic that sheds light on the life and career of one of comedy's biggest legends. It's a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood and anyone interested in the art of comedy.

W.C. Fields and Me is a 1976 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 51 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.