Deconstructing Harry (1997)

Released at the time when Woody Allen’s personal life was getting much more attention than his actual work Deconstructing Harry is an unusually abrasive, dark hearted and self-critical entry into his cannon. However it is also very funny in places mixing more serious themes with wonderful sketches that hark back to his early slapstick days.

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In it Allen plays Harry, a successful bit unfulfilled writer who is struggling with writers block. Acclaimed by those who know his work he nonetheless has made a mess of his personal life. What separates Harry from many other Allen protagonists of a similar ilk (seeking therapy, neurotic) is the sense of self-loathing that permeates his behaviour. Harry is not such a nice guy underneath it all, the film often involves his re-telling stories from his life, or his written works which is where the sketch-type format fits in. These are frequently very funny and creative, a sequence with Robin Williams as an out-of-focus actor is especially memorable, and the way these scenes are woven into the overarching narrative is very satisfying. What is surprising about the film is its unapologetic nature, it seems a very direct response to the criticisms Allen was getting at the time and its somewhat belligerent tone can be off-putting, especially as it is uncommon in the rest of his work.

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As usual Allen is aided by a strong supporting cast from Kirsty Allen, Elizabeth Shue to Billy Crystal (another memorable cameo). He also mixes things up in terms of his usual editing and filmic rhythms, here the film jumps around, utilising cuts mid-scene to give a sense of disorientation, echoing Harry’s mental state. As the film progresses he embarks upon a highly unusual (and unsuccessful) road trip across the country as he looks to attend an honour ceremony in his name as his old College, the nature of which gives Allen ample reason to dip into Harry’s past as he reminisces on all he has achieved. 

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Hidden deep within the typically smart and funny dialogue are deeper themes as well, about those who struggle to function outside of their work, and who find to deal with a world which they did not create, and are not in charge of. Allen may be unapologetic in the film but he doesn’t strain for pity or sympathy either, if we are to read Harry as a somewhat exaggerated version of Woody himself then he is merely offering himself up, as if to say ‘this is who I am’, in a way only he can. Deconstructing Harry is a complex film for all these reasons and more, but if you can get past its distasteful streak it is a compelling, and fascinating character study as well as a reminder of how biting and funny Allen can still be when he puts his mind to it.