The Ladykillers

Last Updated on: June 26th, 2024

The Ladykillers (Touchstone Movie)

“The Ladykillers” is a black comedy crime film released in 2004, directed by Joel and Ethan Coen. The movie is a remake of the 1955 film of the same name, which was directed by Alexander Mackendrick.

The story revolves around Professor G.H. Dorr (played by Tom Hanks), an eccentric and unscrupulous criminal mastermind who assembles a motley crew of criminals to carry out a heist. The gang plans to rob a riverboat casino by tunneling from the basement of an old woman’s house.

To facilitate their plan, the gang rents rooms in the elderly woman’s home, pretending to be musicians rehearsing in her basement. However, the gang severely underestimates the old woman, Mrs. Munson (played by Irma P. Hall), who turns out to be more astute and formidable than they expected.

As the heist begins to unravel, the gang’s plans are thwarted by a series of comedic mishaps, misunderstandings, and Mrs. Munson’s keen observations. The film delves into the absurdity of the criminals’ attempts to outsmart the seemingly innocent old woman and the hilarious consequences that ensue.

“The Ladykillers” is known for its dark humor, quirky characters, and clever dialogue, which are characteristic of the Coen Brothers’ filmmaking style. Tom Hanks delivers a memorable performance as the cunning and suave Professor Dorr, adding to the film’s comedic charm.

While “The Ladykillers” received mixed reviews from critics, it has its share of fans who appreciate its unique blend of crime, comedy, and eccentricity. The film serves as a touchstone for viewers seeking a light-hearted and entertaining crime caper with a satirical twist.



Additional Details

Cast

  • Tom Hanks: Goldthwaite Higginson Dorr, Ph.D.
  • Irma P. Hall: Marva Munson
  • Marlon Wayans: Gawain MacSam
  • J.K. Simmons: Garth Pancake
  • Tzi Ma: “The General”
  • Ryan Hurst: Lump Hudson
  • Diane Delano: Mountain Girl
  • George Wallace: Sheriff Wyner
  • Stephen Root: Mr. Gudge
  • Jason Weaver: Weemack Funthes
  • Greg Grunberg: TV commercial director
  • Blake Clark: Football Coach
  • Aldis Hodge: Doughnut Gangster
  • Jeremy Suarez: Li’l Gawain

Crew

  • Directors: Joel Coen and Ethan Coen
  • Producers: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen, Tom Jacobson, Barry Sonnefeld and Barry Josephson
  • Screenplay: Joel Coen and Ethan Coen

Movie Trailer:




About the Author

Craig Smith
I am founder and editor of DisneyNews.us. My passion for all things Disney goes pretty far back to my first trip to Walt Disney World in the mid-80's. I have since returned to the magical place more than 20 times. I started this site when I came to the realization that I spent a significant portion of my day reading articles about Disney and watching Disney content with my 8-year old, so it made sense that I would start sharing some of what I read and see and building a little community around it. Other interests include 80's nostalgia, vintage toys, video games, LEGO, Star Wars and tech gadgets. Other site isDMR.