Riff Raff: Star-Packed Chaos That Almost Hits the Mark

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Jennifer Coolidge, along with Ed Harris, Gabrielle Union, Lewis Pullman, Miles J. Harvey, Emanuela Postacchini, Michael Angelo Covino, and Pete Davidson – as well as the esteemed Bill Murray – all deserve roles in more impactful movies than “Riff Raff“. Despite the impressive ensemble, the movie’s plot struggles to live up to its potential, aiming for a sharp, dark comedy but falling short, leaving viewers with a sense of disappointment. However, given the stellar cast, it might still be worth watching, but unfortunately, they are unable to breathe life into a story that feels insignificant compared to their talents.

In the movie helmed by Dito Montiel (known for films like ‘The Clapper’ and ‘Empire State’), penned by John Pollono, the plot revolves around a retired hitman named Vincent, played by Ed Harris. During the festive season, his ex-wife and son unexpectedly show up, complicating his tranquil existence. Their arrival isn’t simple; they’re on the run, which already poses a problem. However, things take a turn for the worse when it transpires that Vincent’s old criminal connections (portrayed by Murray and Davidson) are pursuing them.

Although the initial concept appears captivating, the movie fails to hold your attention thoroughly. It often seems a step slower than necessary, and certain scenes lack the intended creative impact, leading to an experience quite distinct from what the promotional material promises – a dark, unconventional blend of humor and violence, reminiscent of a toned-down “Goodfellas” meeting “The White Lotus.” Such a fusion could have been intriguing. Regrettably, it falls flat, leaving audiences mostly bored. However, there is merit in bringing together talented actors who immerse themselves convincingly into their respective roles.

A Great Premise Never Fully Comes to Life

The story of “Riff Raff” starts off intensely, then takes us a week back in time, creating a steady escalation towards a climactic ending – much like each season of “The White Lotus.” Before things take a turn for the worse, Vincent is peacefully spending New Year’s in his forest cabin. His stepson, DJ (Miles J. Harvey), is with him, and their father-son relationship seems solid. However, there’s a subtle underlying tension between them that hints at a strain over time. When Vincent’s new wife, Sandy (Gabrielle Union), arrives, while there are no clear signs of marital issues, she carries an air of discontent that suggests it has been brewing for a while.

Switching to the characters of Vincent’s son Rocco (Lewis Pullman) and his heavily pregnant girlfriend Marina (Emanuela Postacchini), we discover them hastily escaping a dangerous situation involving illicit dealings that result in violence. Their only sanctuary is Vincent’s woodland residence, drawing Jennifer Coolidge’s character Ruth unwillingly into the chaos. This scenario offers ample ground for comedy and mischief. Regrettably, the screenwriter fails to capitalize on the opportunities presented by these scenes of two families uniting unexpectedly under threat, as they now fear for their lives due to Vincent’s past connections with Leftie (Bill Murray) and Lonnie (Pete Davidson), who are pursuing Rocco.

A Great Cast Leads Another Movie That Should’ve Been a Limited Series

Murray and Davidson work exceptionally well together, with Murray impressively slipping into the part of a ruthless assassin effortlessly. Coolidge delivers some striking dialogue throughout the movie. In one scene, she and her former partner Vincent find themselves in the woods, where she playfully grips his groin area. “I’m sorry,” she sighs, “but I get aroused when I’m afraid.” When Vincent reacts, she nonchalantly responds with a dismissive eye roll. “Who cares? It’s just us and this lousy wildlife!” On the other hand, DJ, the stepson, initially comes across as amiable, but he receives an unexpected shock towards the end of Riff Raff. Lastly, Gabrielle Union’s role could have been more substantial, but she still manages to deliver a compelling conclusion in the movie.

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In many contemporary films featuring numerous prominent actors, midway through Riff Raff, we found ourselves wishing that this movie was a limited television series instead. Such a format could have enhanced the storytelling and granted viewers a more extensive exploration of these characters, particularly Ruth, played by Coolidge. On paper, she’s an intriguing character, and Coolidge had the potential to create another iconic role; however, in this film’s 103 minutes, her character is developed so hastily that it feels underdeveloped, despite the actress’s commendable efforts.

A Slow Journey to a Big Ending

The director apparently aimed to construct the movie centered on numerous mysteries and incomplete facts, emphasizing the masks individuals wear toward one another, particularly within troubled families. Furthermore, the film would incorporate the sudden, intense violence characteristic of Coen brothers and Martin McDonagh films. Given his impressive work on two successful seasons of “The White Lotus,” it’s likely that Coolidge contributed to the awkward, character-driven humor in “Riff Raff.

At times, the movie seems to work, but it often feels like a winding journey towards an impressive climax. It appears to stray from its path before delivering a shocking, unrestrained finale filled with intense violence. While the star-studded cast does an excellent job leading us to that climactic point, Riff Raff still has too many issues to truly “deserve” that ending. However, where else can you witness Bill Murray and Pete Davidson engaging in a hilarious exchange, and Jennifer Coolidge playfully grabbing Ed Harris’ private area?

Beginning on February 28th, American cinemas will screen the movie “Riff Raff,” a joint venture between Canopy Media Partners and Signature Films. This film is distributed by Roadside Attractions and Grindstone Entertainment Group. To secure your tickets, simply click here to visit Fandango.

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2025-02-25 16:04