My Cousin Vinny is one of those movies I’ve heard people reference several times over the years. And finally, a few nights ago, the mood hit just right for a classic 90s movie session. Especially after I heard a popular podcaster mention how great Oscar-winning actor Marisa Tomei is in the movie.
My Cousin Vinny, a comedy/crime movie directed by Jonathan Lynn is the story of two New Yorkers, Bill (Ralph Macchio) and Stan (Mitchell Whitfield). Two young men who contact Vinny (Joe Pesci), a loudmouth lawyer with zero trial experience, after they find themselves accused of murder in rural Alabama.
I’ve been a fan of good courtroom scenes for a long time. And luckily for me, My Cousin Vinny captures those moments well. To the point where the courtroom scenes are my favourite thing about the movie. There are also some amusing scenes to enjoy and good performances by all, including Tomei who is as good and gorgeous as the podcaster insisted.
What I like least about Lynn’s film happens near the start. Particularly when one of my least favourite comedy tropes is used. The one where two people don’t realise that they’re talking about two completely different things. I haven’t found the use of said trope funny since the first time I saw it in a film, TV or stage production. It’s the reason I had to quit watching the cult comedy series Arrested Development. They shamelessly overused it, completely to death! I mean, full disclosure, I did binge-watch a bunch of episodes in one sitting. But surely, the writing formula shouldn’t be that obvious.
I say watch My Cousin Vinny if you’re especially curious. It’s certainly not a bad movie. And it has some highlights. Just don’t be surprised if you don’t love it. Or maybe you will.
Happy Film Loving
G
The Movie My Life 
The podcaster is JR of JRE, isn’t it? 😊
Maybe…
OK, Yes! 😁
Gia, thanks for the reminder of this fun movie. Like you I didn’t like the same trope but I did like the film as it moved along – will have another look thanks to your post! 💗
You’re very welcome, Jan! You’re right in that it did get better as it played, especially leading up to the fun courtroom scenes. I hope you enjoy it even more this time round. 🤓🥳
This was one of my favorite 90’s movie. Marisa Tomei and Joe Pesci were so good in this. I remember going to see it when it came out at the movies. I guess growing up in the South I could relate to some of it, lol.
The cast is wonderful indeed. I think I need to lookup more Tomei movies to watch. She’s also great in 2019’s The King of Staten Island.
I haven’t seen that. I will definitely have to check it out.
She’s not the main character, but, unsurprisingly, she shines through. 🤓
I always like that movie, classic!
I haven’t seen this but love Marisa Tomei, thanks!
You’re very welcome! I hope you enjoy it. 🤓
You are right, it is not bad and I like Joe Pesci in it! When it comes to courtroom films, it is essential!
Yes, I can see how as a great courtroom scene this helped set the standard, along with the likes of To Kill A Mocking Bird.