The Curse of the Jade Scorpion, written and directed by Woody Allen, is a whimsical caper set in 1940s New York. The film, which opened in theaters on August 24, 2001, stars Allen as C.W. Briggs, an insurance investigator with a brilliant but old-fashioned mind. He is constantly at odds with his new office colleague, Betty Ann Fitzgerald (Helen Hunt), a modern and efficient efficiency expert.
Their lives are turned upside down when they attend a nightclub act featuring a stage hypnotist, Voltan (David Ogden Stiers). Under a trance, they are given a post-hypnotic suggestion to do his bidding when he utters a specific phrase. Voltan then uses them to pull off a series of daring jewel heists.
As the city’s most brilliant insurance investigator, Briggs is hired to solve the case of the jade scorpion, all the while being the main suspect.
The Curse of the Jade Scorpion is filled with a fantastic supporting cast, including Dan Aykroyd, Brian Markinson, Wallace Shawn, Charlize Theron and Elizabeth Berkley.
The film’s strength is its loving homage to the screwball comedies of the 1930s and ’40s as Allen perfectly captures the style and wit of the era, and his on-screen chemistry with Hunt is the heart of the movie.
Their rapid-fire dialogue and constant bickering are a delight to watch and the film is a charming and lighthearted caper.
The Curse of the Jade Scorpion (Photo/DreamWorks Pictures)
Reception for The Curse of the Jade Scorpion
The Curse of the Jade Scorpion grossed $2.5 million on its opening weekend, finishing in 11th place at the box office.
The film would gross $18.9 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film two and a half stars in his review.
Legacy
The Curse of the Jade Scorpion is a delightful throwback to a classic Hollywood genre and while it wasn’t a huge box office success, it is a perfect example of a director at the top of his game.
The film is remembered for its witty script, charming performances, and a clever plot and is a must-watch for fans of Allen’s style and a good film for anyone who appreciates a fun, old-school caper.
