Miami Blues (1990)

The VHS Strikes Back

Chris had this as an ex-VHS rental back in the day and has chosen the neo-noir black comedy crime drama, Miami Blues (1990).

Miami Blues was an adaptation of Charles Willeford's novel, directed by George Armitage and produced by Jonathan Demme. The film starred Alec Baldwin as the charming yet psychopathic criminal Frederick J. Frenger Jr., Jennifer Jason Leigh as his naive love interest Susie Waggoner, and Fred Ward as the weary, veteran detective Hoke Moseley. The casting process was crucial, with Baldwin bringing a charismatic and unpredictable energy to his role, while Leigh's performance added depth and vulnerability to her character. Ward, also serving as the film's co-producer, provided a grounded and gritty counterbalance to Baldwin's manic character.

Filming took place in various locations around Miami, utilizing the city's vibrant and diverse backdrop to enhance the film's atmosphere. The production aimed to capture the seedy underbelly and the contrasting sunny exterior of Miami, which served as a character in its own right. The blend of dark humor, crime drama, and offbeat romance required careful direction to maintain the film’s tone. Armitage and Demme’s collaboration ensured that the film stayed true to Willeford's unique style while making it accessible to a broader audience. Despite its modest box office performance, "Miami Blues" received praise for its performances, particularly Baldwin’s, and has since gained a cult following for its quirky, noir-infused take on crime and romance.

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Plot Summary:

Frederick J. Frenger Jr., a recently released convict, arrives in Miami and quickly resumes his life of crime. After accidentally killing a Hare Krishna at the airport, Frenger steals, robs, and impersonates a police officer, causing chaos throughout the city. He forms a romantic relationship with Susie Waggoner while being pursued by the persistent and grizzled detective Hoke Moseley.

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