HandMade Films, 1987

starring: Paul McGann, Richard E. Grant, and Richard Griffiths

written and directed by: Bruce Robinson

the plot: Unemployed struggling actors Marwood (McGann) and Withnail (Grant) live in squalor and destitution in a sordid flat in Camden, London, in the late 1960s. Surrounded by filthy dishes, unable to afford even a single bottle of booze, and accosted by uninvited, drug-dealing house guests, the two decide to escape to a rustic, countryside cottage owned by Withnail’s eccentric uncle Monty (Griffiths). But the getaway does not prove as relaxing as they’d hoped. Alone in the unheated cottage, they must figure out how to feed and warm themselves and avoid angering the churlish locals. They also must cope with their own mounting boredom and paranoia, made more pronounced by steady alcohol consumption. And, following an unexpected visit from Monty, Marwood must stave off the older man’s forceful advances. As they bumble from one comic misadventure to the next, it becomes increasingly apparent that these two bohemian dreamers are woefully ill equipped for their “holiday” in the country.

why it’s good: “Withnail and I” is widely recognized as a cult classic in Britain, but it remains little known here in the States. It’s a shame, because “Withnail” is a uniquely funny and insightful film. Director and screenwriter Bruce Robinson modeled the movie largely after his own life, with Marwood representing Robinson and Withnail symbolizing his close friend Vivian MacKerrell. Robinson’s directing gigs have been few and far between, although he is at the helm of the long-delayed film “The Rum Diary,” based on the novel by Hunter S. Thompson. And Withnail is a bit like a British version of Thompson, fueling his own mad ravings with drugs and alcohol, and, at a few points, furiously demanding booze. Richard E. Grant creates an iconic character who, despite his utter disdain for health and hygiene, fancies himself an elegant and sophisticated artist. Marwood, meanwhile, is more sensible and anxious, but generally follows along with his friend’s every whim. Another noteworthy performance comes from Ralph Brown, who hilariously portrays the pair’s drug-slinging friend Danny, inventor of a doll with pills hidden in its head and a device to help drunk drivers cheat alcohol tests. Most everyone can relate, to some degree, with this cast of dysfunctional characters, whose grand aspirations are mired in disillusionment and apprehension. Even the movie’s most comical moments are tinged with tragic gloom. A memorable example comes when Withnail, desperate for alcohol, guzzles some lighter fluid. He then requests antifreeze, to which Marwood angrily replies, “You should never mix your drinks!” Withnail laughs maniacally before falling to the floor and vomiting.

why you should own it: “Withnail and I” is available on DVD from The Criterion Collection with a few special features, including pre-production photos by Ralph Steadman, artist and long-time collaborator of Hunter S. Thompson. It’s a smart and humorous movie worth bringing home, although its appeal is probably widest among dudes, as there is not a single female character of note.