John Huston’s 1985 black comedy crime film Prizzi’s Honor is a deliciously wicked and utterly unique cinematic experience, a brilliant satire that skewers the conventions of the gangster genre with a sharp wit and a surprisingly romantic heart. The movie is a masterclass in tone, performance, and intricate plotting that remains captivatingly original.
The story revolves around Charley Partanna (Jack Nicholson), a loyal, albeit dim-witted, hitman for the powerful Prizzi crime family. His world is turned upside down when he falls head-over-heels for Irene Walker (Kathleen Turner), a beautiful, mysterious woman he meets at a family wedding.
Their passionate romance is complicated by a shocking revelation: Irene is also a hitwoman, working for a rival organization. As their lives become inextricably intertwined with the Prizzi family’s intricate web of corruption, loyalty, and murder, Charley and Irene find themselves in a deadly dance where love and ambition collide, forcing them to make impossible choices with lethal consequences. The film cleverly explores the absurdity and brutality of the criminal underworld through a lens of dark humor.
Nicholson delivers a truly iconic performance as Charley, perfectly capturing his character’s brutish charm, unwavering loyalty, and surprising naiveté. He’s hilariously understated and intensely believable.
Turner is magnificent as Irene, exuding a cool sophistication, sharp intelligence, and a dangerous edge that makes her the perfect match for Charley. Their chemistry is electrifying, oscillating between genuine affection and ruthless pragmatism.
Kathleen Turner and Jack Nicholson in Prizzi’s Honor (Photo/20th Century Fox)
Anjelica Huston, as Maerose Prizzi, Charley’s jilted former fiancée, gives a career-defining, Oscar-winning performance. She’s vengeful, cunning, and commands every scene she’s in with formidable presence.
Robert Loggia is excellent as Angelo Partanna, and William Hickey is unforgettable as the ancient, powerful Don Corrado Prizzi.
Stanley Tucci also has a brief but memorable early role.
Huston, in one of his final films, directs with a masterful hand, orchestrating the complex narrative with precision and a detached, almost ironic, gaze. He perfectly balances the film’s dark humor with its moments of violence and genuine emotion.
The screenplay, by Richard Condon (from his own novel) and Janet Roach, is exceptionally witty, filled with memorable dialogue, unexpected twists, and a cynical view of human nature. The film’s unique tone, often described as a “gangster opera,” is enhanced by its distinctive score and rich visual style, creating a world that is both familiar and utterly bizarre.
Reception for Prizzi’s Honor
Prizzi’s Honor grossed $4.2 million on its opening weekend, finishing fourth at the box office.
The film would gross $26.7 million in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebert gave the film three and a half out of four stars in his review.
In addition to Angelica Huston’s Oscar, the film performed well at the Golden Globe Awards, winning Best Picture (Musical or Comedy), Best Actor (Musical or Comedy) for Nicholson, Best Actress (Musical or Comedy) for Turner and Best Director (Motion Picture) for John Huston.
Legacy
Prizzi’s Honor is a singular achievement in cinema, a darkly comic crime masterpiece that defies easy classification. It’s a testament to its brilliant cast, audacious script, and John Huston’s fearless direction. For anyone seeking a film that is intelligent, hilarious, and utterly captivating in its exploration of love and loyalty in the criminal underworld, Prizzi’s Honor is a true gem that demands to be seen.
