Based on the titular 1994 novel by Stephen Fry, director John Jencks's film centers on burned-out poet turned acerbic critic Ted Wallace (Roger Allam), who finds himself in desperate need of cash after he is fired. Wallace is enlisted to investigate supposedly miraculous cures taking place at the country estate of his estranged friend Lord Michael Logan (Matthew Modine). Michael's son David (Tommy Knight)--a gangly would-be writer who also happens to be Wallace's godson--is believed to have healed the leukemia of a young woman by a simple laying on of hands. The perpetually soused Wallace manages to work out the truth of the matter, although his solution has sad ramifications for some. Fry's oddball combination of influences--Oscar Wilde, Agatha Christie, and Masterpiece Theatre--provide a showy role for Allam, who handles the rich dialogue (much of it delivered in voiceover) with virtuoso aplomb, and Fiona Shaw adds class as Lady Logan. While only fitfully amusing overall, The Hippopotamus boasts sumptuous locations and attractive costumes, and Allam's robust turn as a version of Hercule Poirot who always has a bottle of single malt Scotch at the ready makes this well worth watching. Recommended. (F. Swietek)
The Hippopotamus
Lightyear</span>, 88 min., not rated, DVD: $19.99, Aug. 1 Volume 32, Issue 5
The Hippopotamus
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