Mikey and Nicky

I have loved Peter Falk since I laid eyes on him in "Columbo" the TV series. And John Cassavetes, a good actor and an amazing director - if you have never seen a Cassavetes film, start with "A Woman Under the Influence" and "The Killing of a Chinese Bookie." This film, "Mikey and Nicky" has been on my to-watch list for some time. It was a banger. Directed by Elaine May (who is 92 years old as I type this) who made this wonderful film in 1976. She worked on "Tootsie," wrote "Heaven Can Wait," "Primary Colors," and wrote and directed "Ishtar." So what's this film all about? Cassavetes plays Nicky, a man wanted by the mob and there is a hit out on his life. He calls up his pal Mikey (Falk) for help, but Mikey really isn't his pal, he wants Nicky dead too. Ned Beatty plays the hitman who is always trying to catch up. There is crazed energy in this film and Cassavetes is manic. There was also a great joy for me in going back in time to the world of draft houses, pull-tab cans of beer, large cars, payphones, and non-stop smoking. This movie is a dance between Cassavetes and Falk, bringing them together on an inevitable death march - reminded me a little of "The Last Detail." M. Emmet Walsh shows up as a bus driver. I loved this movie. Go watch it on the Criterion Channel or rent it from Movies 'N' Stuff here in Ottawa.