Rowan Atkinson is at his funniest when playing a man whose confidence survives every demonstration of his incompetence. We value his exact timing and expressive face, though some of his films settle for broader jokes.
Fi1m perspective
Atkinson plays a fool as though being taken seriously were his due. He can deliver an absurd line without signalling that he knows it is absurd. We rate that control highly, especially when the writing gives him something harder to do than look ridiculous. Blackadder (1983–89) established his skill with verbal comedy and an ensemble, an important counterweight to the familiar physical routines. His collaborations with writers Richard Curtis and Ben Elton deserve their share of attention.
Mr Bean (1990–95) put the physical comedy first, with near-silence making every expression count. Bean (1997) took the character into cinemas, while the spy spoofs beginning with Johnny English (2003) found another use for the self-deluded incompetent. These are sensible vehicles for him, but Johnny English Strikes Again (2018) is an underpowered example. The broad jokes make too little use of his precision.
The Lion King (1994), in which he voices Zazu, is our stronger recommendation among his film appearances. Its expressive animation and voice cast give the family drama weight, and the humour survives some overbearing lessons. There is a particular pleasure in hearing such a physically expressive actor contribute through voice alone. Atkinson need not be the principal attraction: a good ensemble gives us more reason to stay than a weak comedy that depends on recognising its star.
Wonka (2023) is the less satisfying example of that supporting work. Paul King's film is handsome and kind, but its unbroken sweetness leaves little room for the bite that might have helped Father Julius. We were disappointed by how little Atkinson's chocolate-loving priest made us laugh; appetite and authority should have given him more to work with. Hugh Grant's weary Oompa Loompa is much funnier, and affection for Atkinson is no reason to pretend otherwise. For a film evening, start with The Lion King; for a fuller account of what he can do, make time for Blackadder.
Biography
Rowan Atkinson is an English actor and comedian. He studied electrical engineering at Newcastle University and the University of Oxford, where he began performing comedy sketches with Richard Curtis.
Atkinson first rose to prominence in the BBC sketch show Not the Nine O'Clock News (1979–1982) and the sitcom Blackadder (1983–1989). He created and starred as the title character in the series Mr. Bean (1990–1995) and its feature films Bean (1997) and Mr. Bean's Holiday (2007). He has also led the Johnny English comedy film series (2003–2018).
His other film roles include Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994), the voice of Zazu in The Lion King (1994), and Father Julius in Wonka (2023). Atkinson was appointed CBE in 2013 for services to drama and charity.
