The Tiger Makes Out! A Roaring Romp Through 1960s Satire
“The Tiger Makes Out” (1967) directed by Arthur Hiller, is a delightful romp through the complexities of modern love and ambition. It stars the charismatic
A Look at the Story: The film follows the escapades of Josh (played by the effortlessly charming Eli Wallach), a middle-aged bookstore owner whose life takes an unexpected turn when he wins a contest: a trip for two to Europe! However, Josh lacks a travel companion. Enter the flamboyant and vivacious Angela (played with infectious energy by Anne Heywood).
Angela, initially unaware of the contest’s prize, believes she is entering into a romantic entanglement with Josh. As their journey unfolds across the picturesque landscapes of Europe, Angela’s desires become increasingly apparent: she craves fame and fortune. Josh, on the other hand, yearns for intellectual companionship and genuine connection.
Their clashing motivations create a hilarious tapestry of misunderstandings and awkward encounters. Angela attempts to leverage their trip into a springboard for her acting career, while Josh struggles to reconcile his romantic intentions with Angela’s opportunistic pursuits.
The Cast: A Feast for the Eyes:
- Eli Wallach as Josh: The seasoned actor delivers a nuanced performance as Josh, capturing both his intellectual curiosity and endearing naiveté.
- Anne Heywood as Angela: Heywood brings an effervescent charm to her role as Angela, skillfully portraying her ambition and vulnerability with equal measure.
- John Pleshette as Michael: Pleshette adds depth to the film as Michael, a wealthy playboy who becomes entangled in Angela’s web of deceit.
Themes: “The Tiger Makes Out” explores universal themes of love, longing, and ambition, set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world. Josh represents the traditional romantic ideal, seeking genuine connection and intellectual stimulation. Angela embodies the burgeoning spirit of self-promotion and fame-seeking that characterized the 1960s.
Behind the Scenes:
| Production Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Director | Arthur Hiller |
| Screenwriter | Larry Gelbart |
| Cinematography | Ernest Laszlo |
| Music | Quincy Jones |
| Running Time | 105 minutes |
A Cinematic Feast for the Eyes and Soul:
“The Tiger Makes Out” is a visually delightful film, capturing the romantic allure of European destinations such as Paris and Rome. Director Arthur Hiller’s deft touch seamlessly blends humor and romance, creating an engaging cinematic experience. The soundtrack by Quincy Jones adds a vibrant and playful energy to the proceedings.
Why You Should Watch “The Tiger Makes Out”:
- Classic 1960s Satire: The film offers a witty commentary on societal trends of the era, exploring themes of ambition, self-promotion, and changing gender roles.
- Charming Performances: Eli Wallach and Anne Heywood deliver delightful performances that are both humorous and endearing.
- Visually Stunning Locations: The film takes viewers on a picturesque journey through some of Europe’s most iconic destinations.
“The Tiger Makes Out,” while not widely known today, deserves to be rediscovered as a charming and thought-provoking film. It is a testament to the enduring power of cinema to entertain, provoke, and transport audiences to different times and places.