Cast
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Mike Myers
as Charlie MacKenzie / Stuart MacKenzie
Nancy Travis
as Harriet Michaels
Anthony LaPaglia
as Tony Giardino
Amanda Plummer
as Rose Michaels
Brenda Fricker
as May Mackenzie
Matt Doherty
as Heed
Charles Grodin
as Commandeered Car Driver
Phil Hartman
as Park Ranger - Vickie
Debi Mazar
as Tony's Girlfriend - Susan
Steven Wright
as Pilot
Patrick Bristow
as Cafe Roads Performer
Cintra Wilson
as Cafe Roads M.C.
Al Nalbandian
as Butchershop Customer
George F. Mauricio
as Butchershop Customer
Kiki Douveas
as Butchershop Customer
Crew
Director
- Thomas Schlamme
Producer
- Robert N. Fried
- Cary Woods
Reviews
Wuchak
Amusing romcom set in San Francisco with Mike Myers and Nancy Travis
Fresh off his success with “Wayne’s World” (1992), Mike Myers stars as a poet/musician in the Bay Area of California, performing in art houses. He takes romantic interest in an adorable local butcher (Nancy Travis) whom he increasingly suspects of (you guessed it) being an axe murderer. Amanda Plummer plays her sister and Anthony LaPaglia a detective pal of the poet. Debi Mazar has a glorified cameo as the cop’s girlfriend.
“So I Married an Axe Murderer” (1993) is amusing enough to watch at home, but I wouldn’t go out and pay money for it. It’s cute & comical and works up some quality suspense regarding the core question (Is she or isn’t she?) and the writers came up with a worthwhile climax. Enough said.
The movie runs 1 hour, 33 minutes and was shot in San Francisco, Oakland and Cloverdale, California.
GRADE: B-
Sep 28, 2018
Thematic Analysis
So I Married an Axe Murderer represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Crime/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Thomas Schlamme brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1993, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of So I Married an Axe Murderer took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $20.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1993, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While So I Married an Axe Murderer shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Red Dragon, which focuses more on action than character development, So I Married an Axe Murderer subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Adventures of Ford Fairlane and King of New York explore similar territory, So I Married an Axe Murderer stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: July 30, 1993
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Budget: $20,000,000
- Revenue: $11,585,483
Where to Watch
