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