Exploring a Unique Cinematic Experience
Even after his death in 2004 , there’s still only one Russ Meyer . His style and imaginative capabilities left an indelible mark on cinema that few can replicate. This sentiment comes to mind while watching Ethan Coen’s latest endeavor, Honey Don’t! . Despite a promising premise, it serves as a somber reminder of the lost talent that Meyer embodied. Known for showcasing strong female characters in films that unapologetically celebrated SEX! , Meyer’s work was both entertaining and respectful towards its audience. In stark contrast, Coen’s film struggles to find its footing in the same way, illustrating why it was relegated to a less visible slot during the Cannes Film Festival .
The opening scene captivates with its striking imagery: a car chase that culminates in a crash somewhere in the desert, resulting in the immediate death of the female driver. Enter a stunning, bob-haired brunette reminiscent of Mia Wallace (portrayed by Lera Abova ), who audaciously rides a stylish mod scooter while inspecting the wreckage. The story kicks off with her lifting a distinctive ring from the lifeless body, marked by a conspicuous cross with a red dot. The soundtrack blares The Animals’ iconic track “We Gotta Get Out of This Place,” setting a chaotic and thrilling tone reminiscent of Mondo Topless at its wildest.
We meet the film’s protagonist, Honey O’Donahue (played by Margaret Qualley ), a gritty and undeniably bold private investigator who openly identifies as a lesbian. Honey’s journey begins within the confines of a bleak and uninviting Bakersfield, where she finds herself entangled in the investigation of the aforementioned fatal crash. Even though local officials have labeled it an accident, Honey is motivated by the fact that the deceased was a local bartender who had sought her assistance not long before her untimely death. Her investigation leads her to a local church , where she encounters Pastor Drew Devlin (played by Chris Evans ), who has an unconventional approach to his pastoral duties.
As the storyline progresses, Honey’s connection with the story deepens, particularly when she becomes involved with the local police station and forms a romantic relationship with officer M.G. Falcone (portrayed by Aubrey Plaza ). The film hints at turning into a delightful kitsch romp filled with laughs, but like its predecessor, Drive-Away Dolls , Honey Don’t! fails to meet the high expectations it sets for itself. The premise of a lesbian private eye feels rather uninspired, as similar characters have graced the screen in past works, specifically from Jess Franco in his memorable exploitation films.
Despite the film’s shortcomings, Qualley breathes life into Honey with a sassiness and charm that keeps the narrative flowing. However, the film becomes bogged down by excessive subplots, such as the reappearance of Honey’s abusive father and the mysterious motivations behind the enchanting brunette who enters her life. Fans will soon discover the brunette’s true identity as a French operative connected to the pastor and that she may hold secrets that are best left unspoken.
Thankfully, Honey Don’t! wraps up in under 90 minutes . Although the conclusion can be characterized as somewhat silly , it undeniably leaves viewers with more questions than answers. Will there be a third film, transmuting this story into a loosely connected trilogy? One can only hope not, as it may lead to a further exploration of convoluted plotlines that might detract from the film’s main essence.
Title: Honey Don’t!
Festival: Cannes (Competition)
Director: Ethan Coen
Screenwriter: Ethan Coen, Tricia Cooke
Cast: Margaret Qualley, Aubrey Plaza, Chris Evans, Lera Abova
Distributor: Focus Features
Running Time: 1 hr 30 mins