Water Movie
Storyline
TAGLINES
They're All In It - Up To Their Necks!
Water Bursts All Over London! [UK]
England wants the island dumped. France wants it bombed. America wants it wholesale. And Micahel Caine wants it . . . on the rocks. [USA theatrical]
A lunatic comedy! [Australia theatrical]
A tiny and impoverished Caribbean island is completely forgotten by its British colonial masters, until an abandoned oil well strikes mineral water. Suddenly the British, Americans, Cubans, French and an incompetent local rebel are struggling for control of the island.
| Michael Caine | Governor Baxter Thwaites |
| Valerie Perrine | Pamela Weintraub |
| Brenda Vaccaro | Dolores Thwaites |
| Leonard Rossiter | Sir Malcolm Leveridge |
| Billy Connolly | Delgado Fitzhugh |
| Dennis Dugan | Rob Waring |
| Fulton Mackay | Reverend Eric |
| Jimmie Walker | Jay Jay |
| Dick Shawn | Deke Halliday |
| Fred Gwynne | Franklin Spender |
| Trevor Laird | Pepito |
| Chris Tummings | Garfield Cooper |
| Alan Igbon | Cuban |
| Kelvin Omard | Nado |
| Dick Clement |
5.70 out of 10 (1017 votes)
Visitor Reviews
Flawed but worthwhile
posted on 11 Jun 2009Michael Caine is a notoriously prolific actor, the downside of that being that for all his acclaim he has a reputation for being in as many bad films as good. One that many critics are quick to cite as one of the worst is "Water". That's not entirely fair, for while it is certainly not one of the high points of Caine's career or a resounding success it has an odd sort of charm which makes it somewhat endearing. The concept alone is a large part of the film's appeal; rarely have we seen a big screen satire with the bravado to take on colonialism. The script is by legendary Britcom writers Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais, and while it is not up to the standard of the best of their television work, it contains many amusing moments. The main problem with the film is that it has no real momentum. The plot often moves at a sluggish pace, and some scenes feel like they add nothing to the film and could have easily been dropped. What ultimately saves the film is the performance of Leonard Rossiter, in his last film role before his untimely death. Whilst the character of Sir Malcolm Leveridge offers little challenge to Rigsby or Reginald Perrin, Rossiter still provides a great number of laughs and is the best reason to see the film.The film's soundtrack is also very enjoyable, in particular a great title track from Eddy Grant.
Satire of the Caribbean, But Some Truth To It
posted on 23 Feb 2009As Michael Caine competes for another Best Actor Oscar, Water has been included by some commentators in the list of the "bombs" he has taken on "to pay the bills." Ill-advised choices such as The Swarm and Jaws III certainly belong on the list, but I have always considered Water to have brought out Caine's comic ability rather well. The satire is sometimes heavy-handed (especially the Texas oil man caricature by Fred Gwynn) but I find that there is some pretty close to target satire of life, culture, and politics on the many tiny isles of the Eastern Caribbean. I lived on a couple of them myself, and I'm always finding some familiar old friends among Water's characters.
This is one of my Lifetime Top 10 movies!
posted on 22 Jul 2008This is one of the most entertaining "lost movies" ever made. The wit, humor, sarcasm, dialogue are what entertainment is all about. The plot lines in the film are well interrelated ... there is the Politics within the United Kingdom, the "then" threat of communism and Cuba, the motivated French mercenaries ... there is the greedy business theme with the evil Spenco (headed by none other than Herman Munster (Fred Gwyne) ... and the religious theme with the questionable behavior of the spiritual leader of the island.My favorite line is the description of how England must view Cascara as the dot above the "i" in the word "sh*t". With the exception to some very direct references to smoking marijuana and some sexual inuendo ... this is a great movie for almost everyone. It is a little history lesson for everyone who can't remember the Falklands - and its a reminder of the early/mid 1980's for the rest of us.
Very Funny Political Satire - but not in any way heavy
posted on 29 Apr 2008"Water" is a very nice satire of international politics and the battle for resources - and no doubt heavily aiming at the 1983 Grenada crisis. But it is not one of those overly-eager satires that looses story and comedy over trying to make a point. It is a funny, enjoyable film.-There are, unfortunately, obvious weaknesses, which have to be mentioned: * the film did not, all in all, age that well, compared to other films - it is very much a 1980s film. * Caine and Connolly aside, most of the other characters are neglectable - either because of mediocre acting, or because of mediocre writing. * I personally don't count the guest appearance of several rock musicians as a plus, because I don't care for them - but if you like that sort of thing... - the "rock concert scene" is, however, one of the most annoying scenes in the film, as it doesn't move the story forward one inch, but does instead break the flow/momentum of the film.-Apart from being a funny film, and an excellent satire (mainly for its keen observation of reality), the films fortes are easily summed up: Caine, Caine, Connolly, and Caine.If you are, like me, a fan of Michael Caine's comedy work, go see this film, but be advised that "Without a Clue" is by far superior and unlike "Water" hasn't aged a day.If, apart from that, you are also interested in political satire, you should definitely see this film. If, moreover, you are particularly interested in the Grenada crisis, you HAVE TO see this film - but make sure to also see the "Yes Prime Minister" episode "A Victory for Democracy".
THIS FLICK HAD MY FAVE B MOVIE ACTRESS IN IT! (GLORY ANNEN!)
posted on 21 Mar 2008This movie was pretty much a bomb, even though I am a big Michael Caine fan and Billy Connoly does sings some mildly amusing songs in it. The real star was a bit part as a hostess by my fave rave B movie actress the super lovely, Glory Annen.She's hard to spot since she has such a small role, but for this fan its worth it. This was her last film going by the movie database, I wish someone could tell me what happened to her. Check out her other films "Alien Prey" and the great skin flick "Felicity"! Long live Glory!
One of my top 10 films
posted on 17 Feb 2008I was surprised by how badly this did at the cinema and at it's low score here as I find it hard to fault.It seems to be a rule of thumb that the more stars you have in a film the worse their performances. Here at last is an exception with all the main characters rising to the challenge. Even Paul Heiney, a unknown non-actor who only played the part of the French commando leader as part of a TV series "In at the deep end", is flawless.This is the British doing what they do best - making fun of themselves. The characters are stereotypes, which annoys me in an action film but is just what a comedy needs. Perhaps one or two of the bit parts suffered because they had only time to parody them without fleshing them out, but the main characters are all believable despite their ludicrous over-the-top personas. You can't help feeling (hoping even) there really are forgotten, unloved corners of the world where people like this can still be found.Essentially it is an parody on Colonialism, so I was amused by another reviewer's comment that it bordered on "offensive" because foreigners argue over the fate of the locals. That's what colonialism is.I recommend this film to you as a little known gem. And after 20 years isn't it about time for the DVD version to make an appearance?
A very funny film that proves Michael Caine can do Comedy
posted on 28 Nov 2007"Water" is the tale of the decline of British colonialism in the West Indies, independence and freedom fighters, multinationals and environmentalist - An excellent film that has me laughing from the opening scene with, Billy Connolly right through to the end. It typifies American Industry and their win at all costs attitude.The dialogue is very much like that of the old screwball comedies and the music is perfect for the Carribbean setting. All the characters are excellently portrayed and the performances are a treat to watch. The plot is absurd enough to be a wonderful parody of reality.You can imagine that the British Government really work the way they are portrayed on the screen and waste thousands of pounds worth of tax payers money ensuring that their will is adhered to.The one liners in the film are excellent "you can't close down an island as if it was a factory" states Michael Caine to Leonard Rossiter who plays the London Minister.Loved it & rate it 10/10
Perl
posted on 05 Apr 2007actually i wanted to give this movie 9/10 but after seeing how bad it rates i had to give it one more star because it really shouldn't be that much of an underdog. sometimes i don't know why i adore this movie, it's just so much pleasure to watch, great music, great cast cane as governor, connolly as a rebel, both giving brilliant roles, valerie perrine as a rich heir going environmentalist, brenda vaccaro as a hot-blooded guatemalan, what more do you need for a great movie :) it's the essence of life without all the drama, money and rush. so, wear your favorite hawaiian t-shirt, grab the bottle of water and watch this beauty :)
Wish I Were Here
posted on 12 Dec 2006This is a really fun movie. It has great actors and the plot, political references, and music make it worth a look. Sometimes movies just need to be fun.Michael Caine looks like he is having a good time making this movie and the other actors meld in with his actions. Brenda Vaccaro and Leonard Rossiter created characters that were almost embarrassing to watch. They were great.Whoever cast Billy Connoly and Jimmie Walker was a genius. Fred Gwynne will be remembered as a Munster, but I think this was one of his great roles.
Whirlled Politics in the Sun
posted on 30 May 2005Haven't seen in years, hope it goes to DVD soon. What a cast this one has, Caine is brilliant, Connolly is perfect. Brenda Vaccaro is well... hysterical, if you liked her in Zorro the Gay Blade, she's even more over the top in this film. You might not want the kids to watch this one as there is lots of Hemp use of all kinds...Rope Soup...If I remember properly this is a "Handmade" film. A film house George Harrison was involved with. Connolly as Delgado Fitzhume bastard son of the islands Clergyman was hysterical. The writing on the film is great with fantastic characters, the Cubans with their T.I.T. (Terrorism, Infiltration,Television) almost killed me with laughter. The island of Cascarra, where the wind blows from all directions all the time. The whole plot/story line is, under the comedy, totally cool to any progressive person.If you get a chance to see this movie, get the blender, make a drink and enjoy a hysterical romp in the sun. Enjoy
A precursor of the "New British Cinema"
posted on 14 Feb 2005The writers Clement / LaFrenais (The Commitments / Still Crazy) have made a funny satire of the end of the british colonialism in the Thatcher-Era (2 years after the Falkland Conflict) and about TV and commerce.Michael Caine gives a great performance as the Gouvernor of the island.The rest of the cast is extraordinary, especially the comedian Billy Connolly (Mrs. Brown / Still Crazy) as leader of the 2-Men- Guerilla-Group of the island.The film contains some good reggae-songs of the 80´s Reggae-Pop-Grandmaster Eddy Grant and some others.A tip for all, who wanna have sun & fun for 100 minutes !(Translated by my sister Antonia)
The Caine mutiny.
posted on 18 Mar 2003A mildly amusing comedy from the double act of Clement/La Frenais, that has pretensions to some kind of political satire, but isn't nearly clever enough, despite allusions to the Falklands War, and plenty of topical material ripe for parody. It is, however, occasionally very funny, with a cast wringing every laugh from a script that doesn't deserve them, and all manner of stereotypes, including some hilarious observations of the Brits themselves. You can't really go wrong with a supporting cast like this, although Caine seems out of his depth, mugging his way through, ill at ease with his unnatural comic timing. It is certainly worth a look, if only because it's the only place you're likely to see Maureen Lipman's impersonation of Margaret Thatcher, and Billy Connolly singing, with George, Ringo, and Eric Clapton as the backing band.
An extremely funny film
posted on 25 Sep 2002I am quite disappointed with the average for this film. I found it to be one of the funniest films I have ever seen. The cast is superb and the script, although not one of the best written, is filled with humor that was was made even better by the acting. It was filmed on the island of St. Lucia. It's a story of a company drilling for oil and accidently discovers mineral water, a substance that is even more valuable than oil. But it is important to keep it a secret. Jimmie Walker, who I don't particularly like, plays the part of a radio dj and does it wonderfully. Michael Caine and Brenda Vaccaro are fabulous as is everyone else. Please give this film a chance. I think it might be one of those little surprises that come along every once in a while.
What a RIOT!!!
posted on 06 Jun 2002I found this movie a RIOT!!! A few glasses of wine, or another preferred 'adult beverage' and you can't help but laugh! Don't try to find any profound meanings in the movie...there aren't any. This is just a FUN and FUNNY movie just for purely entertainment purposes. If there is ANY meaning to be taken from this movie it is the portraying of the Western cultures' desire for designer items, not just in our clothing but right down to the water that we drink. Micheal Caine played his role perfectly, in my opinion, as the governor trying to infuse wealth into the economy (as well as his pockets) of the small island and Jimmy Walker as the DJ on the island...who wouldn't listen to his radio show? I have made this a movie a part of my DVD collection and others should too.
Why does everybody hate this one?
posted on 13 Apr 2002Comedy is considered as a lesser genre by certain people, which may explain why this movie is sometimes considered as one of the worst Michael Caine did. But Water is fun and smart, and how many comedies have these two qualities? For sure, the story is far-fetched, sometimes silly, but it's deliberately silly. It just doesn't take itself seriously, despite the "political messages" in the background and the tongue-in-cheek view of British post-colonial era. Production values are good, pace is sustained, interpretation is dynamic but never crosses the red line of buffoonery. What more can you expect from a comedy? If you come across it on cable TV or in video, give it a chance, it is certainly not the disaster some people claim it is. And if you're in the right mood then, you even may find it damn cool.
The weather? Sunny!
posted on 04 Jan 2002I have a feeling that there will be only a few who would recognise this line, but that's good. It means the rest of you are going to have to see it. I first saw this movie in my 10th grade World History class and have loved it ever since. The story is solid, and it realistically represents all the crazy things that can happen when outside interests become fanatic. Every character in the cast adds to this realism, despite the fact that on the outside they are broadly portrayed. You don't really realise any of this when you are falling over from laughing. You can't beat a two-man revolutionary army, and Baxter's sleazy wife. And when they get invaded? More joy! It is frankly impossible to explain it...so I won't. My question is, where in the hell did Baxter actually meet this woman?
A very funny political satire
posted on 21 Oct 2001This film is a very funny political satire, with many well-aimed (even though, at times, rather too obvious) digs at the politics (and politicians) of the 80's. Although it is not in the league of Dr.Strangelove in terms of satiric black humour, it doesn't really try to be. The jokes are at times hilarious, and in most cases delightful in an old-fashioned comedy way. It is a lot looser in its structure and has a very easygoing pace that helps the satire along. Most of the political satire works even today (which makes one think if things have changed all that much in the past 15 years). Both Michael Caine and Billy Connolly are very funny, while being supported by a cast of relatively unknown but excellent comic actors. All in all, it was a very satisfying comedy that had me laughing out loud in almost every scene.
Here here, I too thought it was one of the funniest films I have ever seen.
posted on 17 Feb 2001Although it has been a while since I have seen "Water" I still remember it to be one of the funniest films I have ever seen. I have fond memories of this picture. And still remember some of the scenes. Like the scene when the French Army dudes first land on the beach and break out their "rations". I also remember the scene where the new guy is talking about the guys and the resistance guys appear (from the bushes) behind him while he is being filmed. The actors are all "The Best". It's quite over the top but I loved it. All this occurred over some squabble over an Island (somewhere in the Caribbean). The interaction between Mr Caine's character and Deloris (his wife) is priceless.
Vive la franc vive la dollar vive the numbered bank account in Switzerland
posted on 11 Apr 2000This is one of the best movies i have ever seen in modern British comedy. we as kids wore the video out as we did another(french) classic - the brain starring David Niven Ali G thinks he discovered the "weed" joke - sorry mate this joke was made 20 years earlier Michael Caine as Governor Thwaites, Fulton McKay as Eric mcnab the priest who has fathered more children than christened them.The cascaran liberation front(delgardo fitzhugh & Garfield cooper), a radio that blows out Eddie grant 24 hours a day, a jail out of use as the paint cant be got, an idyllic place and long forgotten part of the empire a to live until the Americans discover something, then all hell breaks loose.all of a sudden everyone wants this island..... or to sell it, my favourite lines - Baxter "why are you doing this ? " kessler " for the bloodshed and for the money " !!! Baxter "who hired you ?? it was the bloody french wasn't it i can smell the garlic "the cast are all enjoying this film, I did and it sits in my memory as one of the last films made some of the old school no longer here. a film that deserves a part of everyones library
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So politically incorrect, it must be right.
posted on 26 Jun 2009This movie has never been shown in prime time TV, for one -and only one- reason: It's getting so vicious in cauterising political thoughts and the "politically correct" leadership of the western world, it has to be cast aside. Watch the movies and think of the 80s. Think of the British and American attitude, think of the EEC policies and then vote. It's so wrong, it must be right...