Die Frau in Rot

Hard to believe, but this movie is over 20 years old!! While not a great movie, its rating on IMDb seems to be a bit low. I think it deserves a "6" or a "7".

Gene Wilder (born Jerome Silberman) was 50 here when he played Teddy Pierce, an otherwise normal married man who catches a glimpse of temptation in the beautiful form of Charlotte, played by shapely Kelly LeBrock, 23. A perfect older man/younger woman attraction, not unlike "10" with Dudley Moore. In real life, an attraction such as this almost always ends a split second after it begins. Teddy was a typical, frumpy middle aged man, and Charlotte a slim, beautiful young woman. But the funny begins when Charlotte actually reciprocates the attraction.

Perhaps the most memorable scene, they end up at her place in the daytime, he ends up on the ledge outside the window, attracting a big crowd who think he wants to kill himself, when Charlotte's young and virile husband comes home unexpectedly. His family see him on TV and the rest plays out in a very funny manner.

Charles Grodin is very good as Buddy, the homosexual friend of Teddy's, and has to save the moment at a surprise party where Teddy is with Charlotte. In all an entertaining movie, nothing more. Kelly LeBrock started out as a model, and we can see why. However, she wasn't much of an actress and that shows in her later work. Nothing much to write about.

A bit of trivia, Gene Wilder and Gilda Radner were both single during filming in late 1983, a year later they married each other, so that tells us a lot about what went on during making this movie.

FEB 2025 update: Just watched it again, after 20 years, streaming on Prime. Entertaining romp, much of it seemed fresh.

I literally laughed till i cried at this super piece of work. I am a big fan of Gene Wilder, he seems to have a natural ability to make me laugh, so i knew i was in for a good laugh here. I must have seen The Woman in Red about 12 times now over the years and it just keeps getting better. What a shame Gene Wilder doesn't make movies any more, i feel there is no good talent around for comedy these days. It seems to be just young guys who are good looking so people would like them whatever they do. Gene Wilder on the other hand is a comedy legend, not just an actor but a director and writer, he is a man of many talents and i really miss him. Also worth noting about The Woman in Red is the soundtrack by Stevie Wonder, it's so 80's and it just brings me back to those days again. Gene Wilder plays a man seeking adventure in his life and becomes obsessed with the woman in red played by Kelly LeBrock. That's your basic storyline, simple and straight to the point so the laughs begin immediately as Teddy (Wilder) pursues Charlotte (LeBrock) and gets into all kinds of trouble as he chases after the woman in red. Hilarious.

I first saw this movie about 18 years ago and found it below average. The main reason for viewing it was may admiration for Gene Wilder after the early Mel Brooks movies... Gene Wilders appearances in The Producers, Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein and, not to forget although not from Mel Brooks, Silver Streak are rightfully and indisputably regarded as masterpieces by now. Compared to these highlights, I actually found The Woman in Red slightly dull.

Watching it on Cable-TV yesterday, i.e. January 2006, I got a completely different impression. I don't know if the difference is just me being 20 years older and more tuned-in with the main character, but now I experienced a warm, enjoyable movie filled with a mild madness I found most appealing. The spirit of the early 80's is very evident, this is not a timeless movie. Nevertheless, I find it more up-to-date with human emotions and behavior than most contemporary attempts in the "daily life comedy" genre.

Finally, if you - just like me - was disappointed by this one twenty years ago, give another try!

I first seen this movie years ago and really liked it, and now after checking it out again, it still has that magic. It also includes a fine cast of stars. Gene Wilder is pretty funny in this. There are plenty of gags too. But, unlike most comedy films, there is a decent and enjoyable storyline included as well. So I'd say there's something for everyone in this movie. It's romantic, funny, engaging and damn right crazy at times! Check it out! 8/10

Gene Wilder is hilirious. He has one of those faces that all comedic stars want - a face that you cannot even look at with a straight face. He's a genuis. Enough said. This film has to rate among his works as it is PERFECT. I won't bore people with the plot, I'll just say that this film has a touch of everything in it;Romance...Anger...Love...Hate...Confusion...and, of course, some of the best ever comedic moments. I do not believe that anybody wouldn't laugh at or enjoy this movie. The supporting cast to Wilder are fantastic with a great performance by the late Gilda Radner which is hysterical. Not to mention Charles Grodin who plays a good part in this too. 10/10 NO QUESTION