Terry Gilliam’s The Fisher King, released in theaters on September 20, 1991, is a beautiful and bizarre masterpiece that stands apart from his other works. This urban fairy tale seamlessly blends comedy and tragedy, using the Arthurian legend as a framework for a modern story of redemption and hope.
The film is a testament to the power of human connection, and it features two of the most unforgettable performances of the 1990s from its two leads.
The plot centers on two men whose lives become fatefully intertwined. Jack Lucas (Jeff Bridges) is a cynical, disgraced radio shock jock whose careless on-air remarks indirectly lead to a tragic mass shooting.
Years later, haunted and living in a drunken stupor, he is saved from a violent attack by Parry (Robin Williams), a homeless man who was a victim of the same tragedy that destroyed Jack’s career. Parry, a former history professor, has retreated into a world of delusion and fantasy, believing himself to be a knight on a quest for the Holy Grail.
He is obsessed with finding the Grail to heal his “Fisher King” wound and win the heart of a timid woman he loves (Amanda Plummer). Jack, initially reluctant, becomes drawn into Parry’s bizarre world, believing that helping him is the only way to atone for his past actions.
The film’s ensemble cast also includes the brilliant Mercedes Ruehl, who won an Academy Award and Golden Globe for her role as Jack’s long-suffering and supportive girlfriend, Lydia.
Williams delivers a career-defining performance, oscillating between uproarious physical comedy and gut-wrenching emotional vulnerability.
Bridges is his perfect foil, providing the grounded, world-weary counterpoint to Williams’s manic energy.
David Hyde Pierce, Harry Shearer, Kathy Najimy, and Tom Waits round out the supporting cast.
Robin Williams and Jeff Bridges in The Fisher King (Photo/TriStar Pictures)
Reception for The Fisher King
The Fisher King grossed $311,662 on its opening weekend, in limited release on 10 screens.
The following weekend, expanding to wide release, The Fisher King would gross $7.1 million and finish No. 1 at the box office.
The film would remain atop the box office for three weeks en route to grossing $72.4 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film two out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
The film’s legacy is defined by its unique blend of poignant drama and fantastical, comedic elements.
The film’s message—that kindness, empathy, and love are the true forces of salvation—resonates deeply. Gilliam’s signature visual style, full of imaginative flourishes and surreal imagery, transforms New York City into a magical landscape where mythical creatures and knights on horseback can coexist with the harsh reality of homelessness.
The Fisher King is a truly special film, a rare gem that uses humor and fantasy to explore the profound themes of guilt, madness, and the restorative power of compassion.
