Fletch, A review

Few films capture the sly wit and breezy charm of the 1980s quite like Fletch. Directed by Michael Ritchie and starring Chevy Chase as investigative reporter Irwin “Fletch” Fletcher, this film blends comedy, mystery, and satire into a cult classic. It still feel fresh even today, I should know, I saw this in the theaters when it was released.

A Character Made for Chase

Chevy Chase was at the height of his comedic powers in the mid-1980s, and Fletch gave him the perfect vehicle. As Fletch, Chase delivers a steady stream of wisecracks, disguises, and deadpan one-liners that keep the film moving at a brisk pace. His ability to slip into absurd personas—whether a mechanic, a doctor, or a bumbling authority figure—turns every scene into a showcase of comic timing.

A Mystery with Bite

While remembered for its humor, Fletch is also a well-constructed detective story. The plot follows Fletch as he investigates drug trafficking on Los Angeles beaches, only to be drawn into a bizarre murder-for-hire scheme involving millionaire Alan Stanwyk (Tim Matheson). Beneath the jokes lies a genuinely gripping mystery, with twists and turns that reward repeat viewings.

Classic One-Liners and Quotes

1. “It’s all ball bearings nowadays.”

2. “You using the whole fist, doc?”

3. "Does this proposition entail my dressing up as Little Bo Peep?"

4. “Can I borrow your towel? My car just hit a water buffalo.”

5. Dr. Joseph Dolan: Right. Now, how long have you been having these pains, Mr. Barber?

   Fletch: That's Babar.

   Dr. Joseph Dolan: Two bs?

   Fletch: One. B-A-B-A-R.

6. Dr. Joseph Dolan: That's two.

   Fletch: Yeah, but not right next to each other. I thought that's what you meant.

   Dr. Joseph Dolan: Isn't there a children's book about an elephant named Babar?

   Fletch: I don't know. I don't have any.

   Dr. Joseph Dolan: No children?

   Fletch: No, elephant books.

These quips became part of the film’s legacy, cementing Fletch as one of the most quotable comedies of the decade. In one of our earliest podcast episodes, you can hear me say multiple times, "It's all about ball bearings these days.

Did You Notice

Fletch also co-stars Geena Davis, which I think is her third movie. Additionaly, it has George Wendt, the lovable Norm from Cheers, Dana Wheeler-Nicholson, and Joe Don Baker.

Streaming

We recently watched on Netflix.

Reboot

A 'Fletch' reboot was released in 2022 starring Jon Hamm. The reboot, titled Confess, Fletch, is based on the second book of Gregory Mcdonald's novel series and was directed by Greg Mottola. It was a modern take on the character, closer in tone to the mystery novels rather than Chevy's comedic take. No, we have not seen it and we are not in a hurry to either.

Rating

Psycho Bob and I really love this movie. We give this 4.7 twitching whiskers out of 5. This is Chevy Chase at his peak. Alongside Clark Griswold, Fletch is one of Chase’s most iconic roles. It’s not just a comedy—it’s a mystery, a satire, and a character study rolled into one. Remember, if in a jam, just charge it to Underhill's credit card.