Fletch Lives (1989)

“Obviously at one time he must have touched her deeply. I guess he didn’t touch her deeply enough, or in the right place.” – Fletch

Number of Times Seen – At least 5 times (Theater in ’89, Cable in the 80’s and 90’s and 7 Dec 2020)

Brief Synopsis – Investigative reporter Fletch inherits a mansion in Louisiana and tries to find out what is going on after his lawyer is murdered.

My Take on it – I have always been a fan of Fletch (1985) and this sequel is one that I’ve seen less times than the original.

The concept of this film is great and they manage to find a way to keep it hilarious the whole way through.

Chevy Chase was born to play this role and he is able to continue making this character so lovable no matter the situation.

It’s a real shame that they only made two films in the series with him because they could have really turned this into a franchise.

The disguises and impressions that he does here are amazing and enhances this story so much to watch as it unfolds.

The jokes are perfectly timed for the right laugh out loud moment while such fresh and fun dialogue throughout.

The film’s supporting cast is fine here with Cleavon Little doing some great impressions that are quite reminiscent of the role he played in Blazing Saddles (1974).

The story has a few points along the way that are a bit too predictable, but due to the way that this is all presented, it doesn’t really matter much and things stay so engaging and fun due to Chase’s performance here.

Bottom Line – Hilarious sequel that does so much right. Chase is perfect in this role and it’s a shame he only played the part twice. His disguises and impressions are superb and help make this story so enjoyable to watch unfold. The humor is perfect with the dialogue timed just right for the right laugh out loud moment. The supporting cast is ok and the story has a few predictable moments, yet it still stays engaging the whole way through due to such an amazing performance by Chase. Little is also great in this film and does some impressions that are reminiscent of his best work in Blazing Saddles (1974). Recommended!

MovieRob’s Favorite Trivia – In the scene where Fletch is singing “Zippedie Doo Dah”, the Underhills (William Traylor and Grace Gaynor) from the tennis club in Fletch (1985) are dancing right behind Fletch, rackets and all. (From IMDB)

Rating – Globe Worthy (8/10)