Rating: 
Summary: A hilarious match of wits!
Review: Steve Martin at his loudest. Michael Caine at his dryest. Frank Oz at his smartest. Who could ask for anything more? A great script, amazing acting and wonderful direction makes Dirty, Rotten, Scoundrels one of the best comedies out there. It combines humor, surprise and conmen to make a deliciously malicious movie!Fred Benson (Steve Martin) is a loud and obnoxious American con man, who gets sympathy from wealthy women who give him money. Laurence Jameson (Michael Caine) is a sophisticated European con man who takes womens money by playing the freedom-fighter prince fighting the communists. They meet in a train car, and their lives are never the same. They end up having a rivalry which builds up to them having a bet. All or nothing. Whoever gets a certain heiress to pay 50,000 dollars first gets the money, and stays in town to con more rich women, while the other leaves empty handed. An original script executed in such a way that you want to watch it over and over! It has rewatchability and is just to darn funny to pass up!
Rating: 
Summary: Caine and Martin Do Comedy
Review: Director Frank Oz landed the dream team from comedic heaven when Steve Martin and Michael Caine signed on to star in this hilarious comedy of manners and mannerisms, "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels," a film that manages to be entertaining without being offensive in any way, and features some terrific performances and-- filmed on location in the French Riviera-- some beautiful cinematography by Michael Ballhaus. Made in 1988, this film not only holds up well, but seems so refreshing after a decade of "American Pies" and other such fare featuring one witless, forgettable "talent" after another. It's a reminder that true comedy can have sophistication without necessarily being sophisticated, and that real humor is timeless. This is stuff that was good when it was made, is even better today, and will have you laughing even harder at it twenty, thirty or fifty years from now. Freddy Benson (Martin) is a small time American con man/aspiring gigolo traveling abroad with his sights set on the Riviera, specifically Beaumont Sur Mer, which he understands is easy pickings for a talent such as his. Why, on the train into town alone, he bilks a compassionate young woman out of dinner and twenty dollars, using the old I'm-saving-up-for-my-dear-old-grandmother's-operation ploy. On that same train, however, observing Freddy's operation from across the aisle, is Lawrence Jamieson (Caine), a big time con artist/gigolo, who as it happens, lives in Beaumont Sur Mer. And instantly, Jamieson looks upon Freddy with disdain; after all, this is a man who has perfected the art of bilking rich young women for sums that fall into five and six digits by successfully masquerading as a Prince or some such Nobility, who needs vast sums of money in order to "save" his country from the Communists, an unspecified opposition, or whatever else will work. Furthermore, it's taken a lot of time and effort to get to where he's at, and he's not about to let the unseemly Freddy Benson cut into his act. So with the help of his associate ( a local policeman), Inspector Andre (Anton Rodgers), Jamieson sets out to "discourage" Freddy from attempting to get a foothold in Beaumont Sur Mer. But Freddy, it turns out, may not be the unwitting amateur Jamieson presumed him to be-- Andre has just received word that an elusive con artist has arrived in the area; a professional known only as "The Jackal." And so, the game is afoot; a game that will ultimately bring Jamieson and Freddy closer together, and involve them with a wealthy American named Janet Colgate (Glenne Headly), who will become the focus of more than just a little attention before it's all over. it becomes a contest between the suave Lawrence Jamieson and the unruly Freddy Benson. And the winner? Well, by the end it's clear who the real winner is here-- and without a doubt, it's the audience. Oz must have had a good time making this movie, because he had all the tools available to him from the best of both worlds. There's the broad, physical humor employed and perfectly delivered by Martin, and the subtle, studied approach that Caine uses. Their styles contrast wonderfully, and Oz certainly makes the most of it. He's put together some scenes that are beyond hilarious, like the one in which Lawrence attempts tutoring Freddy in the art of being suave and sophisticated; or when-- as part of a scam-- Freddy takes on the role of "Ruprecht," Lawrence's incorrigible, moronic brother. It's in these scenes that Oz seems to give Martin, especially, some free reign, and the rewards are substantial. And it's definitely a joint effort on the part of the two stars; Martin is funny, but it's Caine's response to him that really makes it work. It also demonstrates that Oz knows his territory, and proceeds accordingly. Caine gives a performance that presents Jamieson as the epitome of charm and experience, in the grand tradition of the likes of David Niven and Cary Grant. This is one smooth operator, and the fact that he lives by a personal "code" that only allows him to bilk the very rich (and only if they "deserve" it), enables you to like him for who and what he is. He's not a guy who's going to let a mark sell the family furniture and car to invest in one of his schemes; call him a con man with scruples. And Caine plays him to perfection. Martin, however, is the one who really gets to cut loose in the role of Freddy, and without question, he does physical comedy better than anyone since Buster Keaton or Chaplin. Martin can get a laugh just by walking into a room. He invests Freddy with a less than retiring manner, and takes it over the top in his guise as Ruprecht, using his entire body as a vehicle through which he expresses this particular bit of lunacy. And seeing him in action is an absolute riot. As he did so successfully in his stand-up days, Martin parlays a facial expression combined with the most erratic movements of his arms and legs into a visual image that can be indescribably funny. He's one of the select few actor/comedians with a true and innate sense of real comedy, and moreover, he knows how to sell it to his audience. As the seemingly hapless Janet, Headly does a good job, but it's a role that may have been more conducive to the likes of Melanie Griffith or even Diane Keaton, either of whom would've given the character a decidedly different spin. The supporting cast includes Barbara Harris (Fanny), Ian McDiarmid (Arthur) and Dana Ivey (Mrs. Reed). Funny and thoroughly entertaining, "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels," with it's contrasting comedic styles and polished presentation, is a minor classic in it's own right. A winner from the Land of Oz, wherein Caine and Martin are the reigning Royalty, this is one comedy that will definitely continue to withstand the test of time.
Rating:
Summary: Dirty Little Secrets
Review: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, didn't really do all that great at the box office, during its original run in 1988. The amazing thing is though, after watching the film as a rental, I can safely say that the comedy deserves a look. It's funnier than I expected it to be. Freddy Benson (Steve Martin) is a small-time con man and slob, sleazing his way through Europe, on whatever handouts he can scam. While Lawrence Jamieson (Michael Caine), on the other hand, is an impeccably dressed and high-minded artiste who thinks Freddy is giving him - and all con men - a bad name. At first, Lawrence agrees to help Freddy spruce up his talents and his wardrobe. But when it becomes apparent that the Riviera isn't big enough for the both of them, they make a winner-take-all bet over the fortunes of a naive American soap heiress Janet Colgate (Glenne Headly). The first one to "clean her out" can make the other clear out - and keep the Riviera and its unsuspecting tourists to himself--free of any competition from the other. Martin and Caine are quite funny, playing opposite ends of the same profession of theivery. Each one of them take smarmy to a whole new level. I had no idea that the film's script was concocted by Paul Henning, the man behind such "fish out of water" tv situation comedies, such as Green Acres and The Beverly Hillbillies. The difference here though is that these fish have no redeeming qualities whatsoever and will do anything to get ahead in the game...Headly is pitch perfect as the counter balance to the two male leads. Director Frank Oz, the man behind muppets Miss Piggy and Fozzie Bear, as well as Jedi Master Yoda in the Star Wars films, directs the free for all. The film is lighthearted and fun. The kind where you leave your brain at the door and just enjoy the ride. The DVD doesn't have much in the way of extras...but what it does have is a solid audio commentary from Oz. Like the film itself, the track is, breezy and easy going. The behind-the-scenes featurette is good but only runs a scant 7 minutes. There are also two theatrical trailers and that's it. If you are looking for a hidden gem, among the lumps of rock out there, then Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, will fit the bill. It makes a great rental
Rating:
Summary: Good Clean Humor and Under-rated..
Review: If you are a fan of Steve Martin and Michael Caine, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a must-see. For some reason, this comedic gem was over-looked by many a critic. To me, it's a classic that will be enjoyed twenty years from now. The wonderful acting performances by Martin and Caine are side-splittingly HILARIOUS! Tie in the physical comedy of Martin, the snake-oil smoothness of Caine and a hilarious script and you've got yourself a winner. The scene where Freddie Benson has to endure five minutes of punishment from Dr. Schuffhausen will have you rolling on the floor! I love the European backdrop of the French/Italian Riviera and the soundtrack is also well done. I have this movie on VHS and am looking forward to a copy on DVD, see this movie as soon as possible if you want some good clean fun!
Rating:
Summary: DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS
Review: A few years ago NEW YORKER magazine did a fine story on Steve Martin.
However and excuuuuse me, but it failed to mention the supreme, stellar comedy DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRALS that Steve Martin starred in with Michael Caine. This movie is, truly, one of the funniest things anyone has ever done on film...... not to even mention Steve Martin's incredible performance.
His "Ruprecht the Monkey Boy" scenes are UNBELIEVABLE.
"Ruprecht, do you want the genital cuff?"
His beach scene where his lily-white body staggers around in a tiny, black bikini shrieking with idiotic glee..........is AWESOME!
His scenes in that ridiculous wheelchair...... unctuously placing his 'war medal' on the game table;
breaking down and sobbing at the sight of the couple who are........."DANCING!!!!" ;
the scene when he finally is able to 'walk' and hobbles toward that adorable Glenne Headly who is ecstatically beckoning him toward her! The scene where that hysterical and wonderful Michael Caine takes a galloping run and starts slapping Martin's shins with a rod to test his sense of pain!
I suggest that you rent, nay, BUY, a copy of DIRTY, ROTTEN SCOUNDRALS and watch it repeatedly until the video has been worn out and then, go get yourself another copy.
DFM
Yorktown VA
Rating:
Summary: Steve Martin's Best Comedy Ever!
Review: Though it may not be laugh out loud funny all the way through, this is truly one of the most clever and underappreciated comedies of all time. Steve Martin is in top form here, but who would have thought Michael Caine would steal the show in a comedy. He is brilliant and believable here and makes for a great contrast when compared with Martin's loud eccentric character. I just bought this movie for cheap without ever seeing it before and I am glad I did. I would have paid twice as much to own this movie. One of my favorite comedies now and proves smart can be funny, if done the right way.
Rating:
Summary: One of the best .
Review: A great comedy about con-men. Steve Martin will have you on the floor laughing and Michael Caine is brilliant as always. Directed perfectly by Frank Oz. This is a must see.
Rating:
Summary: Ruprick, the genital cuffs!!!
Review: I can't believe this movie is a decade and a half old! Neither will you when you view it again (or for the first time). The cinematography is fresh and the comedy is timeless. The story revolves around a simple American con-man (brilliantly played by Steve Martin) who specializes in charming wealthy women out of whatever charity he can manage to swindel. That is, until he stumbles on to the master (Michael Caine), a suave ultra-swank European who doesn't go for the fast buck, but rather for the slow millions. The difference in their styles, as Martin invades Caine's comfortable European playground (and then ultimately decide to work together) make for extreme comedy. However, not the Jim Carrey slapstick that's been so popular lately, rather, this is infinitely more subtle in it's buildup, but "net net" as funny as most of the best contemporary comedy out there. If you have yet to see this film, count yourself lucky. Buy this DVD and give yourself 15 minutes to get into it. You won't be disappointed. For those of you who have seen it and are thinking about buying. Do it. It's one of the few DVD's in my collection I frequently watch and enjoy. Hope this was helpful to you. Christian Hunter
Rating:
Summary: Odd combo does an odd comedy
Review: Steve Martin and Michael Caine play con-men who meet in Europe and end up competing for various treasure-targets, culminating in the attempt to gain the wealth of a rich young heiress. Their styles are totally different -- Jerry Lewis versus Cary Grant is a good comparison -- and their finagling, scheming, scamming, and rivalry trigger many funny moments, but there are also some interludes where the movie either gets slow or too silly to be funny anymore. Overall, this is a very watchable comedy, but maybe not a keeper.
Rating:
Summary: HILAROUS SCHTICK AGAINST A LUSH RIVIERA BACKDROP
Review: "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" has panache, slapstick, clever con hijinks, some gorgeous scenery of the beautiful French oceanside, a wacky Steve Martin peeing in his pants at the dinner table, and a debonair Michael Caine changing his impersonations as often as his hat. Plus, a great ending. MGM has done a fairly surprising job with the feature-rich DVD. Apart from a couple of standard theatrical trailers, it has a complete altenative track from Frank Oz (director) which is quite funny overall. Next up is a six and a half minute "behind the scenes" featurette including interviews with director Frank Oz, Steve Martin, Michael Caine, Glenne Headly, and the writer. In short, MGM has done a pretty decent job with this DVD. Recommended purchase.
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