What Bedazzled Is About: A Modern Faustian Pact
Bedazzled, the 2000 fantasy comedy, plunges audiences into the hapless life of Elliot Richards (Brendan Fraser), a socially awkward computer company worker utterly smitten with his colleague, Alison Gardner (Frances O'Connor). Desperate to escape his mundane existence and win Alison’s heart, Elliot finds himself contemplating a drastic solution, which is when the Devil, brilliantly embodied by Elizabeth Hurley, makes an appearance. She offers Elliot a tempting proposition: seven wishes in exchange for his soul. A classic Faustian pact, right? But as Elliot quickly learns, the Devil isn't one to play fair. Each wish, intended to bring him closer to his love of one's life, is twisted by the devil woman with a wicked sense of humor, turning his dreams into comedic nightmares. This ingenious premise, a remake of the 1967 British film of the same name, itself a comic retelling of the enduring Faust legend, promises a journey filled with laughs and unexpected lessons about searching for love and what truly matters.
Behind the Making of Bedazzled: Production, Cast, and Box Office
Bringing the fantastical world of Bedazzled to life was the seasoned hand of director Harold Ramis, known for his iconic work on comedies like Ghostbusters and Groundhog Day. Ramis orchestrated a comedic ensemble led by the charming Brendan Fraser and the captivating Elizabeth Hurley, with a strong supporting cast including Frances O'Connor, Miriam Shor, Orlando Jones, Paul Adelstein, and Toby Huss. Released in 2000, this German and United States co-production clocks in at a brisk 93 minutes, making it an easily digestible and endlessly rewatchable film. While not a massive box office behemoth, it garnered a respectable $37,886,980 worldwide, proving its appeal to a dedicated audience. The film received a PG-13 rating, making it accessible to a broader viewership. Though it didn't sweep the major awards, Bedazzled did secure 1 win and 3 nominations during its run, a testament to its memorable performances and clever script. Critically, it landed a 49/100 Metascore and a 50% 'Rotten' rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a mixed reception, but its cult following speaks volumes about its enduring charm. Honestly, I think the film's success isn't just in its numbers but in how much fun it clearly was to make.
Why Bedazzled Resonates: Performances, Themes, and Enduring Appeal
What truly makes Bedazzled stand out is its commitment to both its comedic premise and its underlying thematic depth. Brendan Fraser, in particular, delivers a masterclass in physical comedy and character acting, transforming into a diverse array of personas with each wish. From a sensitive, overly emotional artist to a towering basketball star—each iteration of Elliot is distinct and hilarious, showcasing Fraser's incredible range. Elizabeth Hurley, as the Devil, isn't just a villain; she’s a playful, seductive, and surprisingly insightful demon who delights in human foibles. Her portrayal captures the essence of the "devil woman" trope with a modern, sassy twist. The film cleverly explores the thematic keywords of wish fulfillment, the sale of soul, and the eternal struggle inherent in a deal with the devil, all while searching for genuine love. It questions whether wishes come true in the way we truly desire, or if true happiness lies beyond superficial gains. As Film Daily reported, Hurley's performance was lauded for her "devilishly charming presence, a true highlight that elevates the film beyond mere slapstick." The movie's enduring appeal lies in its ability to make us laugh while also reflecting on our own desires and the sometimes-foolish lengths we go to achieve them. It's a surprisingly smart film hiding under a very funny surface, and that’s why it works.
Where to Stream Bedazzled Online
For those looking to revisit Brendan Fraser's comedic turn or discover the delightful mischief of Elizabeth Hurley's Devil, finding Bedazzled is easier than ever. Movie OTT, your go-to streaming aggregator, tracks all the current availability, and you can see a comprehensive list in the "Where to Watch" widget at the top of this page. Currently, the 2000 fantasy comedy is available across a variety of platforms for streaming and digital purchase. You can catch Bedazzled on services like Amazon Prime Video with Ads, Disney+, JioHotstar, and Prime Video. For those with other preferences, it’s also accessible via Atres Player, Rakuten TV, and the Plex Channel. If you prefer to rent or buy, options include Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, FOD, Freenet meinVOD, Google Play Movies, maxdome Store, and YouTube. No matter your preferred platform, Movie OTT has you covered for finding this memorable film.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Who directed the 2000 film Bedazzled?
The 2000 fantasy comedy Bedazzled was directed by the acclaimed Harold Ramis, known for his iconic work on comedies such as Ghostbusters and Groundhog Day.
Q: Is Bedazzled (2000) a remake?
Yes, the 2000 version of Bedazzled is indeed a remake. It is based on the 1967 British film of the same name, which itself was a comedic take on the classic Faust legend.
Q: What is the main premise of Bedazzled?
The film centers on Elliot Richards, a lonely computer tech who makes a deal with the Devil, offering his soul in exchange for seven wishes to win the affection of his crush. However, each wish is cleverly twisted by the Devil, leading to hilarious and often frustrating outcomes.
Q: What is Bedazzled rated?
Bedazzled (2000) is rated PG-13. This rating indicates that some material may be inappropriate for pre-teenagers, generally due to thematic elements and some suggestive content.
Q: Who are the main stars in Bedazzled?
The primary stars of the 2000 film Bedazzled are Brendan Fraser, who plays the hapless Elliot Richards, and Elizabeth Hurley, who embodies the mischievous Devil. Frances O'Connor also features prominently as Elliot's love interest, Alison Gardner.
Final Thoughts on Bedazzled: A Comedic Gem
Bedazzled is more than just a simple comedy; it’s a delightful exploration of desire, consequence, and the often-comical path to self-discovery. With Brendan Fraser’s earnest performance as Elliot and Elizabeth Hurley’s magnetic turn as the Devil, the film offers both hearty laughs and a surprisingly sweet message about finding genuine connection. It’s a perfect watch for anyone who enjoys fantasy, romantic comedy, or simply a clever twist on an old tale. The movie doesn't take itself too seriously, but it never loses sight of its heart. A fun ride, for sure. If you're looking for a film that blends humor with a touch of magic and a significant dose of charm, this 2000 gem comes highly recommended by us at Movie OTT.
