A Quirky Journey Through Love and Self-Discovery

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MOVIE REVIEW
Quackser Fortune Has A Cousin In The Bronx
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Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Year Released: 1970, VCI Entertainment Blu-ray 2025
Runtime: 1h 30m
Director(s): Waris Hussein
Writer(s): Gabriel Walsh
Cast: Gene Wilder, Margot Kidder, Eileen Colgan, May Ollis, Seamus Forde, David Kelly, Danny Cummins, Liz Davis, Tony Doyle, Caroline Tully, John Kelly, Paul Murphy, Brendan Matthews
Where To Watch: available now, order your copy here: www.vcientertainment.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Sometimes, a story about an ordinary person navigating life’s unexpected twists can be as compelling as a grand epic. This film leans into its quirks, embracing a protagonist whose profession might seem unconventional but speaks to a deeper narrative about personal choice, class dynamics, and the inevitable march of progress. While it doesn’t fully stick the landing in all aspects, it remains an engaging look at one man’s attempt to hold onto his identity in a rapidly changing world.

At its core, the film follows an independent-minded man who rejects the traditional path expected of him. Rather than joining the ranks of factory workers in his neighborhood, he creates his niche in the city’s ecosystem. His world, however, is thrown into disarray when modern technology renders his trade obsolete. This shift forces him to confront the loss of his livelihood and his place in a society that doesn’t always welcome those who choose to live differently. While that alone would be enough to drive the narrative, the film throws in an unexpected romance, adding another layer of uncertainty to his journey.

This story hinges on its lead actor’s ability to sell both the humor and the heart, and fortunately, Gene Wilder does just that. His portrayal is as charming as it is layered, balancing eccentricity with sincerity. The character never becomes a joke or a one-note oddball but instead a fully realized person navigating a world that doesn’t always make sense to him. Wilder’s attempt at an Irish accent may take some getting used to, but once settled in, it becomes another piece of what makes the performance work. It subtly reinforces his character’s outsider status, even within his home.

Margot Kidder steps in as the mysterious love interest, an American student who disrupts his routine and offers him a glimpse into a world beyond his own. She embodies the allure of something different while remaining distant enough to make their relationship feel more like an exploration than a genuine connection. The chemistry between the two leads works in fleeting moments, but the plausibility of their romance is a harder sell. The film struggles to make their relationship feel organic, sometimes relying on moments that feel forced rather than developing a believable emotional connection. While it’s clear that both characters find something fascinating in each other, the gap between them—both in lifestyle and outlook—makes it difficult to buy into the idea of anything long-term.

Gabriel Walsh’s script is straightforward but effective, avoiding unnecessary dramatization while maintaining an undercurrent of humor and warmth. The writing ensures that the lead character remains compelling, portraying him as an oddball who finds joy in the small things. Where the script falters, however, is in its handling of the romantic subplot. The dynamic between the two leads feels underdeveloped, and certain moments of intimacy seem more driven by the script's needs than by genuine emotional progression. There’s an attempt to explore an unlikely connection, but at times, it feels like the story is forcing something that isn’t quite there.

Then there’s the matter of the ending. Without revealing too much, the film introduces an unexpected twist that neatly resolves the protagonist’s problems. While this turn of events fits within the film’s lighter tone, it undercuts more meaningful themes about resilience and adaptation. A more grounded conclusion might have reinforced the story’s message rather than wrapping things up so conveniently.

The pacing is slower, like its protagonist’s unhurried approach to life. While this allows the film to breathe and focus on character interactions, it may test the patience of viewers looking for a more structured or energetic story. However, the film offers a quiet but meaningful meditation on change and identity for those willing to sit with it.

While it may not be the most well-known entry in its genre, the film remains a fascinating character study with a setting that adds depth to its themes. It offers a lead performance that elevates the material, an intriguing look at societal change, and a story that, while flawed, still leaves an impression. The film’s quieter, more introspective approach may not be for everyone. Still, for those willing to engage with it, something is compelling about watching a character try to navigate a world that no longer has a place for him.

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[photo courtesy of VCI ENTERTAINMENT, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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