Uncle Fester (Christopher Lloyd), a member of the slightly morbid Addams family, suddenly returns from the Bermuda Triangle… but he is in fact an impostor. This movie version of Charles Addams’s cartoon actually has more in common with the classic TV show (1964-1966). Former cinematographer Barry Sonnenfeld’s previous collaboration with the Coen brothers has left a mark; the film is a visual feast. The story may be malnourished, but a steady stream of jokes holds it together. That wonderful Thing completes a cast of well-chosen actors; Anjelica Huston and Raul Julia are darkly charming.
1991-U.S. 101 min. Color. Directed by Barry Sonnenfeld. Cartoon: Charles Addams. Music: Marc Shaiman. Song: ”Addams Groove” (performed by Hammer). Production Design: Richard MacDonald. Cast: Anjelica Huston (Morticia Addams), Raul Julia (Gomez Addams), Christopher Lloyd (Fester Addams), Dan Hedaya, Elizabeth Wilson, Judith Malina… Christina Ricci.
Trivia: Followed by two sequels (starting with Addams Family Values (1993)) and two TV series, one in 1992-1995 (animated) and the other in 1998. Rebooted as an animated feature film, The Addams Family (2019).
Razzie:Â Worst Original Song.
Quote: “Don’t torture yourself, Gomez. That’s my job.” (Huston to Julia)
