Review of Raising Arizona (1987) by Jay L — 15 Jul 2011

"They got more than they can handle.".

When it comes to The Coen Brothers, first came "Blood Simple" then came "Raising Arizona". Joel and Ethan Coen both have an astonishingly unique and marvelously inventive sense of humor, and it shines in this odd, dark, wacky screwball comedy. It's pure comedic genius, these two have established themselves as two of the most anticipated filmmakers of our time. Raising Arizona is packed with blistering hot dialogue, smolderingly hilarious one-liners, pure redneck comedic humor, nonstop action and pure outrageous insanity from start to finish. It's flat-out puzzling, valiantly amusing, viciously wild and chaotic, frequently entertaining an thrilling and endlessly enjoyable. Nothing out there is quite like Raising Arizona, it's explosive and subtle at the same time, dark and light all at once and tremendously over-the-top and implausible. Splendidly absurd, a stunning and intriguing early Coen Brothers work of comedic art.

Nicolas Cage and Holly Hunter are magnificent together, these two command the screen with their flawless comedic chemistry and charm. One of Cage's earlier performances and also one of the better roles of his career. Trey Wilson gives a splendid performance. Excellent supporting roles are put in by John Goodman, William Forsythe and Coen Brothers regular Frances McDormand.