My Blue Heaven, directed by Herbert Ross, is a lighthearted comedy that follows Vinnie Antonelli (Steve Martin), a fast-talking mobster from the mean streets of New York, who has been put into the witness protection program. He is relocated to a quiet, boring suburban town in California. His new life is a stark contrast to his old one, filled with PTA meetings, polite neighbors, and no-nonsense federal agent Barney Coopersmith (Rick Moranis).
Vinnie, however, is a man who can’t shake his old habits. He tries to bring a little bit of the mob life to the suburbs, much to the exasperation of his family and the FBI agent assigned to protect him. His antics get him into all sorts of trouble, but they also bring a new kind of excitement to his new town.
Along the way, Vinnie falls for a sassy district attorney, Hannah Stubbs (Joan Cusack).
My Blue Heaven‘s strong supporting cast includes Daniel Stern, Carol Kane, William Hickey, Melanie Mayron, Jesse Bradford, Colleen Camp and Ed Lauter.
The film’s strength lies in the excellent chemistry between Martin and Moranis. Their on-screen partnership is a delight to watch, with Martin’s smooth charisma playing off of Moranis’s deadpan delivery.
Martin is in top form, and his performance as a lovable mobster is both charming and hilarious.
The film is a fish-out-of-water story, and it works because the jokes are based on character and situation rather than just gags.
Rick Moranis and Steve Martin in My Blue Heaven (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Reception for My Blue Heaven
My Blue Heaven grossed $6.2 million on its opening weekend, finishing fourth at the box office.
The film would gross $23.6 million in its theatrical run during the epic summer of 1990’s blockbusters lineup.
Legacy
My Blue Heaven is a quintessential early 90s comedy and while it wasn’t a huge box office hit, it has gained a loyal following over the years and is considered a cult classic.
Its enduring appeal is its hilarious premise and the perfect comedic timing of its lead actors. It is a feel-good comedy that proves that laughter can be found in the most unexpected places.
