The Big Easy

In the 1986 film The Big Easy, directed by Jim McBride, Dennis Quaid stars as Remy McSwain, a rough-around-the-edges police detective from the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana. Remy is the epitome of a jazzy, party-loving New Orleans native, tapping his toes to the beat on every street corner and enjoying the finer things in life off-duty, including stealing kisses from beautiful women.

Enter Anne Osborne (Ellen Barkin), a straight-laced prosecutor from outside the city who has been brought in to investigate allegations of corruption within the police department. Remy is smitten with Anne and begins to show her around town. He takes her to fabulous restaurants, incredible jazz clubs on Bourbon Street, and introduces her to his family, who are some of the most colorful characters in the city. Anne is initially hesitant to go along with Remy's fast-paced, easy-going way of life, but she eventually finds herself drawn to him and the city he loves so much.

As Remy and Anne work together to uncover the corruption within the police department, they begin to fall in love. Ned Beatty co-stars in the film as Jack Kellom, Remy's boss, who is trying to help Remy clear his name of any wrongdoing. As the investigation deepens, the "Big Easy" begins to reveal its true colors, and Remy and Anne find themselves caught up in a web of deceit and danger.

The movie does an excellent job of portraying New Orleans, with the music and food that are such a big part of the city's culture. The city itself almost serves as another character in the film, with its unique beauty and mystique playing a significant role in the plot. Additionally, the chemistry between Quaid and Barkin is electric, with their flirtatious banter and shared passion for justice bringing them together.

One of the main themes of The Big Easy is the contrast between the "easy" way of life in New Orleans, with its laissez-faire attitude, and the seriousness of the investigation. McBride uses this contrast to highlight the corruption that can arise when people become complacent and the need for honesty and integrity in law enforcement. Additionally, the film explores the tension between Remy's loyalty to his family and his job, as well as Anne's commitment to her work versus her growing feelings for Remy.

Overall, The Big Easy is an entertaining and captivating crime movie set against the backdrop of one of America's most unique cities. Quaid and Barkin give standout performances and the supporting cast, including Beatty, plays their roles to perfection. The film has a mix of drama, romance, and action that make for a satisfying viewing experience, and fans of New Orleans culture will undoubtedly appreciate the film's attention to detail.