Writers at MovieRob and Interjected argue that while it may not be as "clever" as A Fish Called Wanda , its sheer absurdity makes it a "wunderkind" of physical comedy.
The plot kicks off when a ruthless media tycoon, (Kevin Kline), acquires the Marwood Zoo and demands a 20% profit margin. To hit this goal, the new director, Rollo Lee (John Cleese), institutes a "Fierce Creatures" policy: only dangerous, man-killing animals are allowed to stay, while the harmless ones are ordered to be put down. Fierce Creatures (1997)
Naturally, the zookeepers—led by the ever-stuttering (Michael Palin)—rebel, leading to a series of chaotic misunderstandings involving fake gunshots, animatronic pandas, and Kevin Kline playing dual roles as both the tycoon and his dim-witted son, Vince. Why It Works (And Why It’s Underappreciated) Writers at MovieRob and Interjected argue that while
Called it a "funny idea" and appreciated the satirical jabs at media gluttony. What the Critics Say
Elements of the script actually date back to a 1967 concept co-written by Terry Jones and Michael Palin , giving it a classic British slapstick feel. What the Critics Say