The World's Greatest Lover Poster

The World's Greatest Lover 1977

★ 5.534 votes89 min📅 1977-12-18

"Go ahead - laugh!"

Gene Wilder's 1977 comedy *The World's Greatest Lover* delivers a whimsical Hollywood romp where dreams collide with delusion.

Director: Gene Wilder

Cast

Gene Wilder
Gene Wilder
Rudy Valentine / Rudy Hickman
Carol Kane
Carol Kane
Annie Hickman
Dom DeLuise
Dom DeLuise
Adolph Zitz
Fritz Feld
Fritz Feld
Tomaso Abalone
Carol Arthur
Carol Arthur
Woman in Record Store
Candice Azzara
Candice Azzara
Anne Calassandro
Carl Ballantine
Carl Ballantine
Uncle Harry
Stanley Brock
Stanley Brock
Yes Man #2
Warren Burton
Warren Burton
Greta Ga-Ga
Matt Collins
Rudolph Valentino

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The World's Greatest Lover (1977) about?

This Gene Wilder comedy follows a nervous baker from Milwaukee who enters a Hollywood talent search to become the next great romantic leading man. When his wife leaves him for the real Valentino, Rudy's desperate quest to win the role—and her back—leads to a series of uproarious mishaps.

Who directed The World's Greatest Lover?

The film was directed by Gene Wilder, who also stars in it, blending his signature humor with classic Hollywood satire.

Who stars in The World's Greatest Lover?

The cast features comedy icons Gene Wilder, Carol Kane, Dom DeLuise, and Fritz Feld in a playful battle of egos and dreams.

Is The World's Greatest Lover (1977) worth watching?

With its sharp wit and charming ensemble, this underrated comedy is a hidden gem for fans of 70s slapstick. While not Wilder's biggest hit, its heartfelt absurdity makes it a fun watch for classic comedy lovers.

How long is The World's Greatest Lover?

The movie runs for 89 minutes, perfect for a lighthearted laugh without a massive time commitment.

🎥 Trailer

About The World's Greatest Lover (1977) — Gene Wilder's hilarious Hollywood fantasy that's pure comedic gold

Gene Wilder's 1977 comedy *The World's Greatest Lover* delivers a whimsical Hollywood romp where dreams collide with delusion. When the flamboyant studio boss Adolph Zitz launches a star search to uncover the next silent-era icon, hordes of hopefuls flock to Tinseltown—including Rudy Valentine, a shy Milwaukee baker whose only romance is with his oven. Cast adrift after his wife bolts for the real Valentino, Rudy embarks on a madcap quest to claim the role, proving that passion, not polish, makes a legend. With Wilder's signature neurotic charm and a trio of scene-stealers at his side, the film blends slapstick chaos with a heartfelt ode to second chances.

Think *The Producers* meets silent-era slapstick, *The World's Greatest Lover* is a love letter to underdogs and over-the-top ambition. Its blend of physical comedy and tender moments captures the absurdity of chasing fame while yearning for something real. Whether you're a fan of classic comedy or just craving a feel-good laugh, this underrated gem is a delightful escape into the golden age of Hollywood gone gloriously wrong.