Review of My Cousin Vinny (1992) by Russell G — 20 Apr 2014

Two Brooklyn college students traveling through Alabama, in a funny set of misunderstandings and unlikely circumstances, find themselves wrongfully accused of murder. With no money to hire a stud lawyer, they call on a family member who happens to be a lawyer from Brooklyn, unbeknownst to them not a very good one.

Even after watching it numerous times, I still find it hilarious and only appreciate this movie more. It has good writing with well-crafted characters and a developed plotline to carry the humor thought to the finish.

Every scene is funny, as the humor never wanes or wears out its welcome. It is a fish out of water concept with a group of Yankees immersed in a world of Deep South formality and tradition. It cleverly makes fun of northern and southern stereotypes alike.

Joe Pesci and Marisa Tormei have a wonderful chemistry and are simply hysterical together. Fred Gwynne also sets Pesci up for some very funny cultural clashes and passive-aggressive prodding. There are tons of laughs, and it seems like every scene is memorable, even quotable.

These characters are so good, and the cast is simply perfect. It has all the special qualities of a great enduring comedy movie should have, and it is one of my favorite movies of all time.