Lacking the zeal and comic energy that the material requires, The Hippopotamus feels like a soufflé that has failed to rise, leaving a film that can only be recommended to diehard Allam devotees.
If you like Roger Allam, then you might look kindly upon The Hippopotamus. He is easily the best thing in this heavy-handed adaptation of Stephen Fry’s 1994 novel.
Despite a wonderfully witty voiceover and the bullish playing of a willing ensemble, this bawdy romp consistently stumbles over its more contrived excesses.
This patchy but lively adaptation of Stephen Fry’s novel is notable for the wonderfully sardonic and world-weary performance from Roger Allam as the film’s anti-hero, Ted Wallace.
Roger Allam elevates a wonky country house mystery with a wholeheartedly verbose performance.
Roger Allam’s admirable range of profanities apart, this story of miraculous events at an English country house stretches credibility and patience.
General release. Check local listings for show times.
General release. Check local listings for show times.