What's Up, Tiger Lily? 1966
"He's not the world's greatest lover... but 8th place is not bad!"
Woody Allen's 1966 cult classic *What's Up, Tiger Lily?* reimagines the Japanese spy thriller *International Secret Police: Key of Keys* by stripping it of its original tone and filling it with absurd comedy.
Director: Woody Allen
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *What's Up, Tiger Lily?* (1966) about?
Woody Allen's debut film re-dubs a Japanese spy movie to absurd effect, turning a secret agent's quest into an over-the-top chase for a legendary egg salad recipe. The plot twists classic espionage tropes into chaotic comedy, with every dramatic moment undercut by mismatched dialogue.
Who directed *What's Up, Tiger Lily??*
The film was directed by Woody Allen in his feature debut, marking his first foray into comedy through the lens of a Japanese action flick.
Who stars in *What's Up, Tiger Lily??*
Japanese actors Tatsuya Mihashi, Akiko Wakabayashi, and Mie Hama headline alongside American comedian Woody Allen in this unconventional ensemble.
Is *What's Up, Tiger Lily?* (1966) worth watching?
For fans of absurdist humor and meta-comedy, *What's Up, Tiger Lily?* is a hidden gem that blends satire with unexpected charm. Its short runtime and unique premise make it a fun, quirky watch for those who enjoy offbeat cinema.
How long is *What's Up, Tiger Lily??*
The film runs for 80 minutes, delivering a tight, fast-paced comedic experience in just over an hour.
🎥 Trailer
About What's Up, Tiger Lily? (1966) — Woody Allen's Wildest Spy Comedy Takes Flight
Woody Allen's 1966 cult classic *What's Up, Tiger Lily?* reimagines the Japanese spy thriller *International Secret Police: Key of Keys* by stripping it of its original tone and filling it with absurd comedy. Allen's debut as a director transforms a high-stakes espionage plot into a farcical pursuit of a legendary egg salad recipe, complete with dubbing that turns dramatic confrontations into hilarious non sequiturs. The film blends action and comedy, creating a unique mashup where James Bond-style shootouts collide with Woody's signature neurotic wit.
The result is a surreal, lighthearted romp that pokes fun at both spy genre tropes and the idea of culinary obsession as high-stakes intrigue. With its brisk 80-minute runtime and a cast of Japanese stars—including Tatsuya Mihashi and Akiko Wakabayashi—Allen's comedic take feels fresh decades later, offering a playful twist on 1960s cinema.