Miami Blues

Miami Blues is a critically acclaimed crime comedy film directed by George Armitage that was released back in 1990. The movie stars Fred Ward, Alec Baldwin, and Jennifer Jason Leigh as the lead actors. The film follows the story of a sociopathic ex-con called Frederick J. Frenger Jr. (Alec Baldwin) who arrives in Miami with one thing in mind: to start his life afresh. However, his plans soon take a different turn when he begins to commit crimes that eventually lead to a vicious cycle of violence.

The story begins with Frederick J. Frenger Jr. getting off the plane in Miami, Florida. He meets Sergeant Hoke Moseley (Fred Ward) at the airport, who is a veteran cop who is at that moment on suspension from the force. Hoke is a somewhat unconventional cop who is disillusioned with his job and has a tough personal life.

Frenger soon sets about his nefarious activities, starting small by stealing a credit card and going on a shopping spree. However, things soon spiral out of control when he kills a Hare Krishna in his hotel room and dumps the body. He also steals Hoke’s badge, which leads to a case of mistaken identity.

The plot thickens when we meet Susie Waggoner (Jennifer Jason Leigh), a prostitute who is also a student. She has a unique hobby of taking Polaroid photos of her clients and maintaining a scrapbook. She meets Frenger one night, and the two hit it off. However, events begin to turn ugly when a series of murders take place in the city, and Moseley and Susie begin to suspect Frenger of the crimes.

As the story progresses, the lines between good and evil blur as Frenger’s violent tendencies become more and more obvious. Hoke, Susie, and Frenger all become entwined in this web of deceit and violence, and it's anyone's guess who will be left standing when the dust settles.

Miami Blues is a movie that is a masterclass in how to blend wit, humor, and violence into a cohesive narrative. Baldwin’s performance as the sociopathic Frenger is breathtaking. He balances the violence and humor in a way that is truly remarkable. His portrayal of a man who is capable of unspeakable brutality but still manages to charm his way out of situations is remarkable.

Fred Ward’s portrayal of Hoke Moseley is equally impressive. He portrays a character who has seen the uglier side of life and is jaded and exhausted by his job. Despite this, he maintains a level of decency and is one of the few characters in the movie who isn't willing to cross certain lines.

Jennifer Jason Leigh plays Susie Waggoner, who is arguably the heart of the movie. She brings a comedic element to the movie with her scrapbook of Polaroid photos of her clients. Her character provides a counterpoint to the violence and humor of the movie.

The movie is set in Miami, and the city itself almost takes on a character of its own. The sunny beaches, the bright lights, and the seedy underworld all create a unique atmosphere that serves the movie well.

In conclusion, Miami Blues is a movie that has stood the test of time. It is a unique blend of comedy and crime that works on multiple levels. The performances from Baldwin, Ward, and Leigh are top-notch, and the story is engaging and well-paced. The movie is a must-see for anyone who loves crime movies and is looking for something a little bit different.