"My Blue Heaven" Review

"My Blue Heaven" Review

10/10

1990
A Herbert Ross Film
Protagonist(s): Steve Martin, Rick Moranis
Antagonist(s): Joan Cusack
Run-time: 1 hour 37 minutes

When small-time Mafia crook Vinnie (Steve Martin) decides to turn stool pigeon, he is ushered into witness protection and has to adapt to the suburban life. However, he is far more adept at changing his surroundings to fit him.

This is one of my favourite films of all time, simply because of the simple situation humour which runs through the entire film, and for the main character's unwillingness to admit to anything even with a gun to his head.

I heard that the original casting had been Steve Martin in the support role and Arnold Schwarzenegger as Vinnie, but as the man got a more exciting project Mr Martin stepped in and Rick Moranis got the part of FBI Agent Barney Coopersmith. While it would have been amusing to see the massive Austrian try to pass himself off as a nimblefingered Italian thief, I believe the existing cast was perfect for the roles they played.

The effects are few but good. The comedy is mostly situation and obvious attempts at evading the truth, but well timed. The plot is anything but simple, but well written. The acting talent is excellent.

I recommend this film to anyone.