Fatso (1980 film)

Fatso poster

Fatso is a 1980 American comedy film directed by Anne Bancroft in her directorial debut and written by Bancroft as well. The film stars Dom DeLuise as Dominic DiNapoli, a man struggling with obesity and the societal pressures that come with it. The cast also includes Anne Bancroft, Ron Carey, Candice Azzara, and Michael Lombard. Fatso addresses themes of self-acceptance, the complexity of family dynamics, and the challenges of dieting and weight loss, all while maintaining a comedic tone.

Plot

Dominic DiNapoli has always been a big guy who loves his food, but when his cousin dies of a heart attack, Dominic is forced to confront his own obesity and the health risks associated with it. Encouraged by his sister Antoinette (played by Bancroft) and motivated by his desire to live a healthier life, Dominic embarks on a journey to lose weight. He joins the "Chubby Checkers," a support group for people trying to lose weight, where he finds camaraderie and support. However, Dominic's path is fraught with temptations and setbacks, including his own deep-seated emotional connection to food. The film explores Dominic's struggles and triumphs with humor and empathy, ultimately delivering a message about the importance of self-love and the value of personal acceptance.

Cast

• Dom DeLuise as Dominic DiNapoli
• Anne Bancroft as Antoinette
• Ron Carey as Johnny
• Candice Azzara as Lydia
• Michael Lombard as Frank
• Estelle Reiner as Mrs. Goodman

Production

Fatso was both written and directed by Anne Bancroft, marking her debut in the director's chair. The film was produced by Mel Brooks' production company, Brooksfilms, although Brooks did not take a public credit as a producer. The decision to cast Dom DeLuise in the lead role was pivotal to the film's comedic and empathetic portrayal of Dominic's journey. Bancroft's script, combined with DeLuise's performance, brought a balance of humor and seriousness to the film, addressing the sensitive subject of obesity with respect and care.

Reception

Upon its release, Fatso received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the film for its heartfelt and comedic approach to a difficult topic, while others felt it did not fully explore the complexities of its themes. Despite the mixed critical reception, Fatso has gained a cult following over the years, particularly for Dom DeLuise's performance and the film's unique blend of comedy and drama.

Legacy

Fatso remains an important film for its early exploration of themes related to obesity, diet culture, and body image, topics that have become increasingly prominent in society and media. The film is remembered for its contribution to discussions about weight and health, as well as for its compassionate portrayal of individuals struggling with obesity.